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1994 vintage guide for Washington State Merlot

Washington 1994: Drink soon

The crop was small but quality was excellent

Weather Conditions

Labelled ‘a banner year for red winesl by growers, 1994 was pleasant and uneventful and concluded with warm sunny skies in September and October. The flowering and set occurred under normal May-June weather conditions, but the clusters were noticeably smaller in size and fewer in number than in preceding vintages. The crop was small from the beginning, but with normal weather in July and August interrupted only by a brief July heat spell, the vines looked healthy and balanced. The warm days and cool night of September were just what the vintners ordered.

Best Appellations

See best producers

Best Producers

Chateau Ste. Michelle (Reserve & Indian Wells Vineyard)Andrew Will, L’Ecole #41, Hogue Reserve, Waterbrook, Yakima River, Wilridge, Columbia Crest.

The fruit ripened well, and the acidity level remained relatively in check. The vintage proved to be slightly better for Merlot, and pushed Washington Merlot into center stage.

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