From Sideways to “Upright” Merlot
At EFESTĒ, every bottle of our wine tells a story, and our Estate Upright Merlot is no exception. Named as a playful nod to the classic movie, Sideways, where Merlot faces an unjust snubbing, our Estate Upright Merlot turns this sideways notion “Upright”.
Why Upright?
After the release of Sideways in 2004, Merlot faced a dramatic shift in perception. The film’s infamous scene, where the character Miles rejects Merlot in favor of Pinot Noir, sent shockwaves through the wine industry. Almost overnight, Merlot sales plummeted as consumers followed the lead of the film’s protagonist, adopting a snobbish attitude toward the once-popular varietal.
Owner Helen Ferrelli, affectionately known as Yiayia, felt compelled to showcase the exceptional quality of Merlot, particularly when it is sourced from our Taylor Mag Estate Vineyard on Red Mountain, in light of the Sideways snubbing. In a world where perceptions can influence taste, our Estate Upright Merlot stands tall, bursting with character, complexity, and the rich heritage of its terroir.
The Winemaking Process
Our Estate Upright Merlot is a 100% single-vineyard, single-varietal Merlot that beautifully embodies the classic flavors of this varietal, while highlighting the distinctive terroir of Red Mountain. Our winemaking approach prioritizes minimal intervention, allowing the terroir and the fruit to express themselves in their most true form, without any unnecessary additives. This philosophy is key to creating a Merlot that is not only bold but also one that authentically reflects its origin.
The Vineyard
Sourced entirely from our Taylor Mag Vineyard, our Estate Upright Merlot is a reflection of Red Mountain’s unique terroir. The vineyard, established in 2007, spans 17.1 acres and employs meticulous practices such as high-density planting and single-cordon trellising. These techniques enable us to cultivate robust Bordeaux varietals, resulting in a wine that captures the nuanced complexity and distinctive minerality that Red Mountain is known for.
Tasting Notes
Don’t let the lower alcohol content fool you; our Upright Merlot delivers a bold and vibrant experience. The journey begins with a spicy aroma reminiscent of fruit pies and cobbler, inviting you to take a sip. As the wine opens up, luscious flavors of berries and larger fruits emerge, intertwined with a delightful kick of allspice and cinnamon. The finish is where this wine truly shines. Thanks to the silty dust from the Taylor Mag Vineyard, it offers an exceptional length and mouthfeel, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the last drop.
Food Pairings
Our Estate Upright Merlot pairs well with a number of dishes, from light bites and hearty meals to decadent deserts. Some options to consider:
- Charcuterie board: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers a range of flavors that complement the Merlot’s depth and complexity. Try our Antipasto plate with a glass of Upright Merlot the next time you visit us!
- Red wine-braised short ribs: The tender, flavorful short ribs meld beautifully with the Merlot’s structure, creating a harmonious balance. Try Yiayia’s Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs for an EFESTĒ family favorite recipe to complement our Merlot.
- Dark chocolate deserts: For those with a sweet tooth, pairing the Merlot with dark chocolate or chocolate desserts brings out its fruity and spicy notes.
Reviews and Accolades
- 2020 – Wine Enthusiast: “I thoroughly enjoyed how this Merlot reminded me of summers spent hiking with my family in Central Oregon. Freshly picked Himalayan blackberries and juniper aromas meld seamlessly with the sweet floral scent of high desert wildflowers. Flavors of sweet blueberries and pork fat cruise along a slick, smooth texture.” —92 Points Editor’s Choice
- 2019 – Tasting Room: “Evocative, offering poise and stature, with sultry expressions of scorched earth, eucalyptus and iron notes interwoven with a broad spectrum of cherry, black currant, bittersweet chocolate and tobacco leaf. Sleek acidity wraps around the polished tannins on the umami finish with lasting structure.” —94 Points
Our Estate Upright Merlot not only challenges stereotypes but also embodies the artistry of winemaking at EFESTĒ. Each sip tells a story rooted in the rich heritage of our Taylor Mag Vineyard and the passionate vision of Yiayia. With its bold character and complex flavors, this Merlot invites you to rediscover its charm.
Visit our tasting rooms in Woodinville or Seattle, or buy online to enjoy our Estate Upright Merlot.
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