2020 Ruby Leigh Merlot Blend
93 pts International Wine Report
92 pts Wine Spectator
92 pts James Suckling
2020 Ruby Leigh,our Merlot and Cabernet Franc driven right bank Bordeaux blend (our version of BDX icons like Cheval Blanc, Ausone and Pavie) leads with splendid aromas of red and blue fruits and milk chocolate, herbs, and mineral. A cascade of tasty cherry, raspberry, baking spice, vanilla, sweet oak flavors is framed by supple and silky tannins, leading to a long, elegant finish. An enthralling sensory experience now, this wine is built for a long and entertaining life.
Food pairing: Chinese-style crispy duck pancakes, Gouda and quinoa stuffed roasted red peppers
Movie pairing: Mary Poppins, the original
FOUNDERS’ NOTES:
Ruby Leigh is an extraordinary young lady, gifted of many artistic and conceptual talents. Hers is a spirit from the wild places in the cosmos, restless and searching for light and experience. One of the Three Original Wines, it has, since its inception in 2004, been driven by merlot and cabernet franc, supported by malbec and cabernet sauvignon. Like our daughter, each vintage of Ruby Leigh is a classic, lovely and vibrant in its youth and undoubtedly astounding in its evolution.
| Download Wine Notes |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Varietal | Merlot Blend |
| Varietal Composition | 67% Merlot,
22% Cabernet Franc,
11% Malbec |
| Appellation | Columbia Valley |
| Vineyard | Olsen ME and CF 45%, Weinbau ME 22 Discovery ME 22%, Sagemoor MB 11% |
| Acid | 0.50 g/100 mL |
| PH | 3.65 |
| Aging | Aged in 100% new oak.Bottled at 19 months post cross flow filtration 7/22. |
| Fermentation | Maximum temp. 91°F. |
| Residual Sugar | 0.02 g/100 mL |
| Alcohol | 14.50% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Bottling Date | 07/19/2022 |
| Cases Produced | 214 |
| Country of Origin | UNITED STATES |
| State of Origin | Washington |
| Artificially Carbonated | No |
| Sparkling Wine | No |
"The 2020 Sparkman Red Wine ‘Ruby Leigh’ from Columbia Valley is a striking blend of 67% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc, and 11% Malbec. With a medium dark ruby-purple core and a glowing red-brick rim, this wine makes an immediate visual impact. Aged in 100% new French oak, it exudes aromas of blackberries, black currants, cassis, and cedary herbs, layered with hints of dusty road and bright orange pith. On the palate, the grippy tannins provide structure, while moderate plus acidity keeps the wine lively. The black fruit core is beautifully complemented by a finish that carries notes of Christmas spices, making this a bold yet balanced red blend that delivers complexity and depth. Just 214 cases made. Drink 2025-2035."
93 Points International Wine Report
This handsome blend is refined yet energetic, with well-knit black cherry and currant flavors accented by espresso, licorice and spices. Finishes with fine-grained tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Drink now through 2030. 214 cases made. –TF
• Region: Washington / Columbia Valley
92 Points Wine Spectator
