2021 Airfield Estates - Merlot Yakima Valley (750ml)

Airfield Estates is a fourth generation family farm rooted in the Yakima Valley, tracing back to 1907 when H. Lloyd Miller settled in the area and began acquiring land that would become the family estate. During World War II, a portion of the property served as a flight school for Army Air Corps pilots, and after the war Miller purchased the airbase buildings at auction, giving rise to what is still known today as Airport Ranch, and inspiring the winery's aviation themed name. His grandson Mike Miller founded Airfield Estates Winery in 2005, and it is now run by the fourth generation, siblings Marcus Miller and Lori Stevens.

This Merlot is estate grown in the Yakima Valley AVA, Washington's oldest appellation, on silt loam soils layered over fractured basalt at the foot of the Rattlesnake Mountains. The valley's high desert climate brings warm days and cool nights, allowing fruit to ripen fully while retaining natural acidity. Grapes are entirely estate sourced, reflecting the family's philosophy that fine wine begins in the vineyard, and the 2021 vintage, one of the warmest on record in Washington, yielded concentrated, structured fruit built for both early drinking and cellaring.

The wine is medium to full bodied, with dark fruit aromas of black cherry, cassis, and sweet plum layered with espresso and toffee notes. Smooth, supple tannins carry flavors of blackberry jam, vanilla, and toasted oak through a long finish. It pairs nicely with grilled steak, roasted lamb, or aged cheddar.