A Comprehensive Review of 14 Hands Wine: From Merlot to Moscato 

With 14 Hands Winery, each bottle tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and the wild spirit of eastern Washington. From the velvety depths of their Merlot to the sun-kissed freshness of their Chardonnay, 14 Hands offers an array of wines that celebrate the rich terroir and vibrant history of their origins. Try the whole selection at Union Wine & Liquor, at 2675 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14227.

14 Hands Winery started in 2005 in Prosser, Washington, initially launching as a restaurant-only label before quickly gaining popularity. It's part of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, a giant in the wine world. The winery's name is inspired by the wild horses that used to roam eastern Washington, symbolizing the strength and tenacity that 14 Hands aims to capture in its wines.

The winery expanded nationally in 2011 and built a tasting room in Prosser in 2014, showcasing the brand’s special reserve wines sourced from Horse Heaven Hills. These reserve wines are a small but significant part of their production, highlighting the quality and care put into their winemaking process.

Keith Kenison has been the winemaker from the very beginning, growing with the brand and contributing significantly to its success. 14 Hands has made a name for itself both in the US and internationally, exporting to more than 25 countries and attracting wine lovers worldwide.

Recently, they've started producing canned wines in four different varieties, catering to the growing demand for convenient, quality wine options for outdoor activities or travel. 14 Hands Winery is deeply connected to its roots and the region's history while also embracing innovation and expansion. It's a place where wine enthusiasts can explore a range of wines that beautifully reflect the unique terroir of eastern Washington.

In the glass, the 14 Hands Merlot showed off a deep plum color with hints of strawberry at the edges. It had those slow-moving legs that wine lovers appreciate, barely letting any light through.

The aroma was inviting, starting off with a dark, earthy vibe and then opening up to cherry notes with just a hint of alcohol. Tasting it, the wine was rich with flavors of mocha, black cherry, and blackberries, and you could catch a bit of oak in there too.

The texture was smooth, almost creamy, but the tannins made their presence known, adding a bit of grip, especially on the sides of the tongue. The finish lingered, transitioning from that creamy texture to a slightly dry sensation, a testament to the wine's blend and tannin structure.

Overall, the 14 Hands Merlot to be excellent. Its subtle complexity and the winemaker's skill in blending really stood out. Merlots can sometimes lean too dry, but this one strikes a perfect balance, showcasing its layers in a way that's both sophisticated and approachable.

It shines alongside grilled red meats like steak or lamb, where the char complements its oaky undertones, and roasted pork, which mirrors the wine's richness. Pasta with meaty sauces, such as Bolognese, and earthy mushroom risotto also make excellent companions, balancing the wine's smooth texture and robust flavors. For cheese lovers, aged cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese can enhance the wine's complexity, making this Merlot a flexible choice for both meat-centric and vegetarian dishes alike.

Upon pouring, the wine reveals its deep plum to purple hue, hardly letting any light filter through. Fine, slow-moving legs on the glass, hint at its texture and body. Taking the first sniff, you're hit with a strong whiff of alcohol, quickly giving way to a complex mix of cinnamon, spices, and a whisper of blackberry. It reminds you of holiday seasons past, maybe even bringing to mind a glass of rich Port.

With an alcohol content of 13.5%, the wine promises some warmth, but nothing to overpowering. Each sip brings a new discovery -- you might catch the essence of clove and blackberry, or perhaps almond and a hint of forest floor peeks through. The texture is like linen on your palate, with tannins greeting you right at the front, making for a finish that lingers just long enough to savor.

Imagine it alongside a hearty beef stew, where its notes of blackberry and clove can dance with the savory depth of the meat. It's equally at home with a cheese platter, especially one featuring aged cheddar or gouda, where its fruit-forward character and spice can elevate the experience. 

The 14 Hands Chardonnay is an elegant, light-bodied white wine that impresses with its blend of floral, melon, apple, and pear notes. Crafted by master winemakers, this Chardonnay combines stainless steel fermentation with a touch of neutral oak aging, achieving a bright aroma with a subtly sweet oak finish. It pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes, from roasted chicken to seafood alfredo, thanks to its 13.5% ABV. The convenience of a screw cap adds to its appeal, ensuring freshness. This Chardonnay is a refreshing choice for any occasion, offering a nuanced yet approachable flavor profile that's sure to delight both new and seasoned wine enthusiasts.

In exploring the diverse offerings of 14 Hands Winery, from their robust Merlot to their refreshing Chardonnay, it's clear that this winery has mastered the art of capturing the essence of eastern Washington's terroir in every bottle. Let Union Wine & Liquor, at 2675 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14227 help you choose the right bottle! Come in store, shop online at www.unionwineandliquor.com, or call us at 716-608-6190 for personalized recommendations.