We talk a lot about what is in our foods and how they are produced, but do we worry as much about the drinks and alcohol we consume? The reality is the water and soil quality contributes to the quality of the resulting product. Some companies are concerned with not just the end product they’re providing the consumer but also the impact they have on the world around them.
Mercer Wine Estates is located in Washington state and the family farm is in it’s fifth generation working their lands, and following sustainable practices. The family farm has changed over the years and now has over 2000 acres of vineyards producing a wide variety of different wines and brands. Mercer Estates sent us a selection of their wines to sample including their:
Mercer Estates Pinot Gris 2015, The ripe fruit flavors are complimented with hints of honeysuckle and citrus. The natural balance of fruit and bright acidity has created awine that is lush and full with a fresh, bright finish and a hint of minerality. Jessica Munnell, winemaker
Mercer Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Aromas of blueberry, dark plum and blackberry jam are elevated with hints of tobacco, caramel and sweet vanilla. Lush fruit continues on the palate with a nice lift of mint. The well-integrated oak and sleek tannins lead into a velvety finish with a nice touch of acidity on the end. This wine is a lovely balance of power and grace.
As a wine lover, I tend to lean towards sweeter and less dry wines. The Pinot Gris was rich and full, and a tall glass was a great way to end a day. The Cabernet Sauvignon worked perfectly with to accompany a meal, and with the hint of berry flavor continued to go great with dessert. My palate may not as sophisticated as others when it comes to picking out the flavors in wine, however both were rich and delicious. I’m always concerned about the quality of the food we’re enjoying and the chemicals they may be introduced to, and take that into consideration when it comes to my wines after growing our own grapes out back. So finding a winery that also takes this into consideration and weaves it into their family business practice is one that I will go back to again and again.
Read more about the Sustainable practices that Mercer Wine Estates is using to create their high quality wines:
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Water Management – Winery water management practices have reduced water consumption to 25-50 percent of the industry average per gallon of wine.
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Soil and Fertility Management – With years of research and on-going extensive testing, mapping of the nutrient and mineral characteristics of soil types on the farm is done using electronic conductivity methodology. These minerals determine nutrient availability for plant health.
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Integrated Pest Management – Weekly scouting and monitoring of pests and natural predators, timely water applications, beneficial predator habitat development and conservation, mating disruption, the suppression of weeds and development of beneficial crop covers minimize the need for pesticide use.
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Waste Management – Grape pomace is directed to land application for dust control, under vine weed control and pH enhancement. There is an extensive recycling program in place.
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Research, Community Support & Leadership – In 2009, The Mercers assisted in developing the Integrated Environmental Stewardship program, designed to measure the impact of vineyard operations. The family also partners with WSU’s Entomology, Vinology and Viticulture Department to conduct research and in February 2014, donated a total of $250,000 toward WSU’s new Wine Science Center
To find out more information about Mercer Wine Estates or which wines they currently are producing visit their website.
