868 Estate Vineyards

Meritage 2022

Produced by 868 Estate Vineyards · Purcellville, Virginia

Tasting notes

Rich, oak-kissed aromas of blackberry coulis, crushed blueberries, and vanilla lead into a velvety palate of warm figs, Amarena cherries, spice cake, and cherry pipe tobacco. Generous yet balanced, the wine offers plush texture and solid structure.

Winemaking notes. The blend combines equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot (76%), supported by 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. Aged 18 months in 228L French oak barrels with 23% new and 77% neutral; the wine developed polished tannins and layered complexity.

Vintage notes. The 2022 growing season was dry and steady, producing clean, beautifully ripened Bordeaux varietals with vibrant aromatics and refined tannins. Ideal conditions across all four varietals created balanced components for blending.

Accolades. Gold Medal, Virginia Governor's Cup. 89 points, James Suckling.

• VarietalBordeaux-style Red Blend (Meritage)
• Vintage2022
• Producer868 Estate Vineyards
• RegionLoudoun County, Virginia
• Composition38% Cabernet Franc, 38% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot
• Vineyards868 Estate Vineyards
• Fermentation & aging18 months in French oak (23% new)
• Alcohol13.7%
• pH3.68
• Acidity6.0 g/L
• Residual sugarDry