2022 Januik Winery - Red Blend Columbia Valley (750ml)
From Januik Winery, a longtime cornerstone of Washington's Columbia Valley, the 2022 Red Blend Columbia Valley (750ml) brings together top vineyard sources to deliver a structured yet approachable finish. Winemaker Mike Januik emphasizes small-lot fermentations and careful barrel selection, marrying ripe New World fruit with a traditional sense of restraint and depth. The 2022 growing season was warm and steady, yielding ripe tannins balanced by vibrant acidity. After hand harvesting, the grapes were fermented in small lots to preserve varietal character, then aged in French oak for about eighteen months, with roughly forty percent new oak to help integrate and shape the wine’s texture.
Vineyards and Winemaking
- Primary structure from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with nuanced support from Malbec, Grenache, and Cabernet Franc.
- Fruit sourced from esteemed sites across the Columbia Valley, including Stillwater Creek and Ciel du Cheval.
- Small-lot fermentation preserves varietal character and enhances complexity.
- Aging: about 18 months in French oak, ~40% new, to build depth and integration.
Tasting Notes
The nose showcases expressive blackberry, raspberry, and chocolate aromatics. On the palate, it presents a plush, generous core of dark berries and cassis, with vanilla notes and a subtle graphite nuance. The wine finishes round and seamless, marked by gentle spice that lingers gracefully.
Food Pairings
- Grilled steak
- Braised short ribs
- A hearty pasta dish