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Mercer Canyons 2009 Red Blend, Columbia Valley, $17
Mercer Canyons is a second label for Mercer Estates, but it doesn’t take a backseat in quality. This is a blend that leads with Merlot (84%), Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot from a vintage that ended somewhat abruptly in the second week of October when a sudden freeze basically stopped many vineyards’ ripening by frosting the all-important grape leaves. This red is a combination of great price and even better quality. It opens with big aromas of exotically spicy French oak, nutmeg, crushed walnut and boysenberry, followed by supple flavors of sweet purple fruit, milk chocolate and espresso. It has fairly bold tannins and loads of acidity to provide structure to all the fruit. It’s a big, delicious wine priced to drink any night of the week.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 2,000
Alcohol: 14.5%
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