Best Buy! Bob Bertheau’s team continues to create one of Washington state’s most consistent, affordable and delicious expressions of Merlot. It starts with fruit, and most of this lot hails from Canoe Ridge Estate in the Horse Heaven Hills, a site that’s virtually in the backyard of Ste. Michelle’s red wine production facility overlooking the Columbia River. At this price point, the investment in new French and American oak is amazing, which shows starting in the nose black cherry, dark raspberry, black pepper, mocha and allspice. Inside are dark tones of black cherry, black currant and blackberry with a creaminess on the midpalate and notes of French roast coffee and bittersweet chocolate throughout. Suggested fare includes beef, lamb, pasta dishes featuring tomato and Italian herbs, and even grilled salmon.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 67,000 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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