The Horse Heaven Hills AVA (American Viticultural Area) is a sprawling winegrape growing region and home to a number of the Mercer family’s foundation vineyards. Spice Cabinet is a prime 18-acre vineyard on a gentle slope rising above the Columbia River on the Mercer family farm, where the grapes get an average of 6-9 inches of rainfall yearly.
The vineyard name was inspired because of the diversity of the nine different varieties grown on the site: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Mourvedre and Sangiovese are a few of the precious “spices” that flourish here. A deep sandy soil, called Quincy, has settled over the rock bluffs above the site, and that, combined with the steep southeast aspect create characteristics similar to places in France’s famed Rhône Valley.
Winemaker Jeremy Santo joined the winery in 2017 and this is one of his first releases under the Mercer label.
Look for more wines from Mercer Estates at your favorite store retailer, or for an in-depth tasting experience visit one of two tasting rooms in Prosser and in the Seattle neighborhood of Georgetown.
Mercer Estates 2017 Spice Cabinet Vineyard Rosé, $15
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-94 pts.)
Reminiscent of a classic dry French Rosé, this perennial favorite is crafted from 100% Grenache. The palest of pretty pink hues, it is fresh and mouthfilling, with racy flavors of strawberry, white cherry, cranberry and rose petal. Finishes crisp, with vibrant wetstone minerality. This highly versatile pairing is the perfect companion for a wide variety of dishes. Try it with summer BBQ, grilled lemon thyme herbed chicken, salads, cheese and cracker plates.