“This is the pinnacle Merlot of the vintage. My goal is to shoot for an “old world” style, while showing off the power of Washington fruit. The wine delivers vibrant cherry fruit with silky, elegant tannins. We added a small percentage of Cabernet, Petit Verdot and Malbec for structure, color and complexity. Setting this one down for 5-10 years is certainly possible, although opening a bottle relatively soon with some lamb chops or prime rib might be a good idea too!”
-Bob Bertheau, Head Winemaker

Current Vintage Fact Sheet, Acclaim, and Past Vintages
Find Our Washington Wines

• 90 pts., Wine Advocate (2005 Vintage)
• 92 pts., Wine Spectator (2004 Vintage)
• ****, Restaurant Wine (2003 Vintage)

• Merlot from the best Columbia Valley vineyards were selected for this Ethos blend, including our Cold Creek and Canoe Ridge Estate vineyards. Cold Creek Vineyard, one of the oldest and warmest sites in Washington, contributed over half of the fruit for the blend.
• Planted in 1973, the low yielding old vines of Cold Creek produce small clusters and small berries, resulting in intense varietal flavors and deep color.
• Contributing 30% of the blend, the vineyard at Canoe Ridge Estate lies on a steep south-facing slope on the bank of the Columbia River. The site’s proximity to the river protects it from temperature extremes, allowing uniform ripening and excellent color development. Fruit from the Wahluke Slope rounded out the blend.

Past Vintages

• 2004 Ethos Merlot
• 2003 Ethos Merlot