A Merlot from exciting young winemaker Graham Markel, sourced from the steeply sloped Hillside Vineyard on the backside of The Dalles, Oregon. Here, deep alluvial soil translate into purple and black fruit and good Gorge dustiness in this wine. Aged in neutral barrels for around seven months, there's great acidity here, despite whatever sad preconceptions you have about this grape variety. Pair with cured meats, croquettes, snacks.