Housed in the historic Frenchtown School depicted on their label, L’Ecole has earned international acclaim for producing distinctive wines of the highest quality.
Founded in 1983 in the Walla Walla Valley, L'Ecole No 41 is one of Washington State's most iconic and oldest family-owned wineries. Growing and making 100% of their wines, each bottle is handcrafted with a commitment to quality in the vineyards and the winery. More than three decades of winemaking experience and ongoing investments in their Walla Walla Estate Ferguson and Seven Hills Vineyards. Martin Clubb is the Owner and Managing Winemaker along with his wife Megan and their two children Riley and Rebecca. Martin assumed the operation of the winery from Megan’s parents, Jean and Baker Ferguson, in 1989, six years after the winery was founded.
A blend of 81% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2020 Merlot Walla Walla Valley comes all from the estates Seven Hills and Ferguson vineyards. This expressive and concentrated Merlot reveals a bright medium garnet hue with pale edges in the glass. There are aromatics of dark red fruit and blackberry, dark chocolate, graphite with notes of underbrush, black tea, and cedar. The palate is medium bodied with polished tannins and is layered with creamy dark chocolate. It has a silky mouth-feel and is well structured. The bright acidity gives the Merlot lift as it finishes long, fresh and focused. A wonderful Merlot from the winemaking team at L’Ecole, this wine should drink well over the next decade.

By Perry Miroballi