From Sparrow’s red wine by the bottle list, the Devona Merlot 2019 is a polished Washington Merlot from the Columbia Valley, made by one of the state’s most respected winemaking names ($140 by the bottle). It is a quietly serious bottle for an Eastside dinner that calls for something special.
About Devona Merlot
Devona is the project of John and Molly Abbott, the couple who earlier founded the acclaimed Walla Walla winery Abeja. John Abbott built his reputation over decades in Washington, with ten years at Canoe Ridge Vineyard and thirteen years at Abeja, and he became especially known for consistently outstanding Merlot. Devona is his return to small, focused winemaking, drawing on some of the Columbia Valley’s most prized old-vine vineyard sources. This Merlot carries the 2019 vintage and the broad Columbia Valley appellation, the large Washington growing region that supplies much of the state’s finest red wine fruit. With a winemaker this experienced behind it, Devona Merlot is built to show the elegant, age-worthy side of the grape.
Tasting Notes
Washington Merlot from a maker like Devona tends toward structure and finesse rather than simple softness, in the spirit of the great Merlot-based wines of Bordeaux’s Right Bank. Expect ripe dark fruit, a smooth and layered body, and fine tannins that give the wine length and a savory finish. It is the kind of Merlot that drinks well now and has the balance to develop further with time. A short decant helps it open in the glass.
What to Pair It With
Merlot is a natural at the dinner table. From the Sparrow dinner menu, pour it with the Braised Duck, one of the American Wagyu steaks, or the Eggplant Parmigiana. It also pairs nicely with the Sparrow-Smoked Rack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Devona Merlot?
Devona is made by John and Molly Abbott, who previously founded the acclaimed Walla Walla winery Abeja. John Abbott is known for consistently outstanding Washington Merlot.
How much is Devona Merlot at Sparrow?
Devona Merlot is $140 by the bottle at Sparrow in Kirkland, on our red wine by the bottle list.
Where is Devona Merlot from?
This Devona Merlot is a 2019 from the Columbia Valley in Washington State, the large appellation that supplies much of the state’s finest red wine fruit.
Find it on the Sparrow beverages menu near the Northstar Merlot and the Walter Clore Reserve. We are in Kirkland’s Juanita neighborhood on the Eastside, so reserve a table and come give it a try.