THE APRIL B-SIDES
When is Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc a B-Side? When is comes from Walla Walla…
A Note on the Producer: L’Ecole No. 41
L’Ecole No. 41 is one of those quietly important wineries that helped define what Washington State wine looks like today. Founded in 1983 in the Walla Walla Valley, it remains family-owned, now run by the third generation of the Baker family.
The name comes from the historic Frenchtown Schoolhouse where the winery is still based. It’s a literal one-room schoolhouse that dates back to 1915, and while plenty has changed around it, the feeling of continuity is still very much intact.
Over the years, L’Ecole has built a reputation for consistency and precision rather than flash. They work with a wide range of vineyard sites across the Columbia Valley, but the approach stays steady. The focus is on balance, structure, and wines that age well but don’t require patience to enjoy.
There’s a sense of confidence here. Nothing feels overworked or overly styled. These are wines that know exactly what they are.
2022 L’Ecole No. 41 Merlot, Columbia Valley
Washington Merlot has had an interesting trajectory. For a long time, it was the state’s calling card, and when it’s done right, it still makes a strong case for itself. This is a good example of why.
The 2022 Merlot opens with classic notes of black cherry, plum, and a touch of cocoa, with a subtle herbal edge that adds lift rather than greenness. There’s a polish to the aromatics that feels intentional but not overdone.
On the palate, it strikes a nice balance between generosity and structure. The fruit is ripe and supple, but there’s enough acidity and fine-grained tannin to give the wine shape. It feels complete, which is not always the case at this level.
What stands out most is the texture. It’s smooth without being soft, structured without feeling rigid. This is Merlot doing what it does best.
It’s an easy match for a wide range of food. Roast chicken, pork, grilled vegetables, even something like mushroom pasta all work well. It’s also perfectly comfortable on its own, especially if you give it a little air.
2024 L’Ecole No. 41 Frenchtown Sauvignon Blanc
The Frenchtown Sauvignon Blanc comes from vineyards in the Columbia Valley, and it leans more toward the Loire side of the spectrum than the overtly tropical style you sometimes see from warmer climates.
The nose is bright and lifted, with citrus, green apple, and a hint of fresh herbs. There’s a clean, almost stony quality that keeps everything feeling focused.
On the palate, it’s crisp and linear, with a refreshing acidity that carries through from start to finish. The fruit stays in the citrus and orchard range, with just enough weight to keep it from feeling sharp.
There’s a quiet precision here that makes it especially appealing. Nothing is exaggerated. It’s simply well made and very easy to drink.
This is a natural fit for seafood, salads, and lighter fare, but it’s also the kind of bottle that disappears quickly on its own, especially when served well chilled.
Final Thoughts
Taken together, these two wines show a different side of American wine than the one that gets most of the attention. There’s no excess here, no push toward extremes.
The Merlot is composed, balanced, and quietly expressive. The Sauvignon Blanc is clean, focused, and refreshing without being simple.
Both feel like they come from a winery that values consistency and drinkability above all else. That might not be the flashiest approach, but it’s one that tends to age well, both in the cellar and in the glass.
