Founded in 1995, Walla Walla Vintners is a cornerstone of Washington's Walla Walla Valley, known for producing elegant, age-worthy wines. Under the stewardship of Scott and Nici Haladay since 2017, and with winemaker Derrek Vipond at the helm, the winery continues its commitment to quality and sustainability. The 2022 Merlot exemplifies the estate's dedication to crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Walla Walla Valley.
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WINEMAKER: Derrek Vipond
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FARMING: Sustainable
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VARIETY: 88% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec
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TERROIR: Grapes sourced from the Walla Walla Valley, characterized by its warm days and cool nights, which promote slow ripening and balanced acidity. The region's diverse soils contribute to the complexity and depth of the wine.
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VINIFICATION: Fermented in stainless steel with native yeasts to preserve freshness and varietal character.
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AGING: Aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for 18 months to enhance structure and integrate flavors: 18 months in 40% new
French barrels and 60% once-used and neutral barrels.
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TASTING NOTES: The 2022 Merlot offers aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and hints of vanilla. The palate is smooth and full-bodied, with flavors of dark fruit, cocoa, and subtle spice, leading to a long, velvety finish.
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FOOD PAIRINGS: Pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and aged cheeses.
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SCORES: 92 – Wine Enthusiast (2019 vintage)
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ALCOHOL: 14.9%
From Our 2025 Bottle Cult Notes:
Founded in 1995, Walla Walla Vintners is one of the valley’s pioneering wineries, known for its commitment to crafting expressive, site-driven wines. A distinguished AVA established in 1984, the Walla Walla Valley sits at the border of Washington and Oregon. Now under the stewardship of a new generation of winemakers, the estate continues to honor its legacy while embracing modern sustainability practices. Their estate vineyards lie in the eastern reaches of the Walla Walla Valley AVA, where warm days, cool nights, and wind-blown loess soils create optimal conditions for ripening Bordeaux varieties like Merlot.
Once overlooked in favor of its more famous cousin, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot from Washington has earned a loyal following for its structure, balance, and depth—qualities this bottle delivers in spades. The 2022 vintage, a blend of 88% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Malbec, benefitted from a long, even growing season, resulting in small, concentrated berries and beautifully balanced acidity. Fermented in stainless steel and aged for 18 months in 40% new French oak barrels, this wine is polished yet powerful, capturing both the ripeness of the fruit and the elegance of the terroir.
In the glass, this Merlot opens with aromas of black cherry, dried herbs, and cocoa, with subtle notes of cedar and baking spice from well-integrated oak. On the palate, it’s plush but structured, with fine tannins and a long, savory finish. Rich without being heavy, it’s a versatile red to enjoy now or cellar for a few more years. Pair with grilled lamb chops, mushroom risotto, or a simple wedge of aged cheddar to highlight its savory depth and finesse. —Karen Smith, DECANTsf
