Quaker Run Merlot has been the star of Eluvium, grown on the East Block on the slope. From some of our oldest vines, this Merlot contributes the most unique and exciting aromatic density, with notable textural presence and persistence of fine grain tannin. Beginning in 2019 we gained access to two additional mountain vineyards, Russ Mountain and Capstone, and both bring diversity of Merlot to the table, with Russ Mountain contributing depth and heft, and Capstone bringing a freshness that displays the purity of Merlot. Considering the added power, depth and flavor density brought by their fruit, we are excited about how we have been able to further approach blending Eluvium. Eluvium very much represents power, but with nuance. On the surface, the Eluvium blend appears very straightforward, based on varietal, however it is the exciting diversity in sites and resulting wines that make this one of the most complex to blend. We complement the Merlot with Petit Verdot, and while Petit Verdot can often present as big and monolithic, our approach with it highlights its inherent aromatic characteristics. We primarily source our Petit Verdot from mountain side sites (much like the merlot), and pick not just based on high alcohol potential, but rather the overall flavour profile and balance. Petit Verdot can bring such ethereal and floral attributes, in addition to its brooding dense fruit. We utilize whole cluster inclusion during fermentation to highlight the range of aromas the Petit Verdot presents.