Seven Hills Winery is home to one of the area’s first vineyards in Walla Walla, and have helped strengthen a community that values environmental stewardship to protect the future. For the past fifteen years, they’ve practiced sustainable agriculture as guardians of the land, and hold LIVE and Salmon Safe certifications for their estate SHW Founding Vineyard. Today, Marc and I tried both their Merlot and SHW Founding Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, which showcased the terroir of Walla Walla. If you find them, buy both!

 

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2017 Seven Hills Winery Merlot, Walla Walla Valley, Washington ($25)

Seven Hills Winery makes authentic varietal expressions that reflect their places of origin in the Walla Walla Valley. This is a delicious Merlot with red fruits, plum and tobacco notes. Its soft yet bold, finishing clean and bright.

2017 Seven Hills Winery SHW Founding Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla, Washington ($50)

The grapes to make this wine comes from their original Merlot block planted by the McClellan family in the early 1980s. This vintage marks the 30th year of making Merlot from these same vines. As for flavors, the wine is layered with dark fruit flavors that juxtapose against an earthy, spicy foundation. The tannins are soft, leading to a medium-long finish.