Simply stated, Perigee exemplifies elegance, the essence of our Estate Seven Hills Vineyard. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc, it shows smooth, silky red cherry and blackberry fruit, with rich floral and spicy aromas of cinnamon and mocha on a vivid, earthy mineral finish.

Given the distinctive differences between Pepper Bridge Vineyard and Seven Hills Vineyard, it only seemed appropriate to name this wine Perigee. We were intrigued by the reference in the definition, of “being near the earth,” as one of this wine’s characteristic attributes is an earthy structure. Secondly, the vineyard is managed with environmentally sound and sustainable practices.

Wine maker notes

First planted: 1981 Elevation: 900 – 1,185 feet Aspect: Northwest slope Soil: Wind blown glacial loess, geologically young and rich in minerals. Very free-draining. Average rainfall: 8 – 9 inches Temp: Slightly warmer site with harvest starting as many as 10 days earlier than other valley vineyard sites Wind: High, predominantly southwest, adding to plant stress

Other text

Seven Hills Vineyard, planted in the wind-blown glacial loess of geologically young, mineral rich soils, is one of the Walla Walla Valley’s most acclaimed vineyards. With the expansion of the vineyard in the 1990’s, L’Ecole No 41 became a vineyard partner with Leonetti Cellar and Pepper Bridge Winery. In June 2004 Wine & Spirits Magazine named it “One of Ten Great Vineyards in the World.” The unique features of Seven Hills Vineyard contribute significantly to the vineyard’s characteristic rich elegance, earthy structure, seductive aromas and complex, silky finish. As our Estate vineyard, producing more than a third of our total production, we felt it only fitting to hand-select our oldest and most distinguished blocks to produce Perigee, a wine as exceptional as the vineyard.