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Apex Cellars 2010 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $30
Apex has a long history in the Yakima Valley, going back to the 1980s when it was launched by Harry Alhadeff and the wines were made by Brian Carter. Today, Apex is owned by Precept Wine in Seattle, the state’s second-largest wine producer. Apex has tasting rooms at the Vintners Village in Prosser and in Woodinville, and the wines are made by Ron Bunnell, whose resume includes head winemaker at Chateau Ste. Michelle, as well as time at Kendall-Jackson and Beringer Vineyards. Bunnell’s winery, Bunnell Family Cellar, is just a short walk from Apex (as is his Wine O’Clock bistro). This is a classic Washington Merlot, opening with aromas of ripe plum, dark chocolate, clove and a whisper of smoke, followed by rich flavors of blackberry, black cherry, milk chocolate and boysenberry. The robust mouth feel is backed with refined tannins that give way to a lengthy finish.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 900 cases
Alcohol: 14.7%
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