Itä Wines · Merlot · Walla Walla Valley, Washington · 2022

The Moment

This is Merlot with a pulse.

Bright, energetic, and quietly expressive — the kind of bottle you open when you want freshness without sacrificing depth. It’s a red that works just as well slightly chilled as it does at the table, especially when food, conversation, and a second glass are all part of the plan.

What It Feels Like

The nose opens with sour cherry, cranberry, and blood orange peel, layered with pine needle, mint, and dried herbs. There’s a cool, herbal lift that keeps things lively and grounded.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and vibrant, driven by high natural acidity. Flavors of cranberry relish, pomegranate, hibiscus, and citrus-laced white tea move cleanly across the tongue. The tannins are silky and refined, giving the wine structure without weight.

The finish is fresh, crunchy, and persistent — savory, lightly herbal, and immediately inviting another sip.

Why We Love This Bottle

Because it rewrites expectations of Merlot.

This is not plush or heavy — it’s alive, precise, and built for the table. High-elevation fruit, thoughtful restraint, and a style that makes Merlot feel modern again. It’s the kind of wine that converts skeptics and rewards curiosity.

Pair It With

From the shop

• Olive tapenade or marinated vegetables — acidity meets savory herbs

• Mixed nuts or Marcona almonds — texture + balance

• Soft cheese spreads — smooths the edges without muting freshness

At the table

• Roast chicken or turkey

• Mushroom dishes or lentils

• Pork chops, herbed sausages, or weeknight comfort food

This is a food wine first — flexible, forgiving, and quietly versatile.

Category Style

Earthy & Silky
(Bright structure, lifted acidity, fine tannins, food-first energy)