Possessing a composition of 85% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and 2% Carmenere, the 2019 Kiona Merlot was brought up in 40% new French, American and Hungarian oak. Medium violet in color, it shows oak and cherry on the nose. Slightly closed on the first pass, it has a slightly grippy tannic structure and carries some heat early. Tart black cherry, sweet tar and bittersweet cocoa emerge with time in the glass. It never quite softened heading mid-palate through the short finish, but it did show slight plum skin and menthol late in the game. I’d give this wine a few years in the cellar before enjoying over the following ten years.
Rating | Value | Drink |
89 |
$34 |
2025-2035 |
Country | Region | Appellation |
United States |
Washington |
Red Mountain |
Editor | Issue | Importer |
R. Geresi |
May, 2023 |
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