Columbia Crest "Grand Estates" Red Blend 2012 (Washington) - [WS 90]

Notes from the Winemaker: Grapes were crushed with 25% whole berries remaining.Fermentation lasted 6-10 days on skins to extract optimum fruit and textural components.Blending occurred immediately after fermentation.Malolactic fermentation occurred in a combination of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels.The wine barrel-aged in 25% new French and American oak barrels for 16 months. Tasting Notes This complex red blend marries together a variety of characteristics and layers that complement each other, including lively flavors of red and black fruit punctuated with layers of spice and caramel on the finish. Technical Information Blend: 57% Syrah, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Viognier, 6% Merlot, 3% other varietalsTotal Acidity 0.53 g/100 mLpH: 3.77Alcohol Content: 13.5%Barrel Aging: 25% new French and American oak barrels for 16 monthsFermentation: 6-10 days on skins Ratings & Reviews 90 Points & Best Value - Wine Spectator Magazine:"Supple, generous and flavorful, with green oli