Patterson Cellars 2011 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $38
A decade has passed since John Patterson produced a Merlot, and from the quality of this release out of the Walla Walla Valley, it’s been way too long. The decision must have stemmed from the Sideways effect. Here’s a classic Washington Merlot, starting a nose of black currant, Bing cherry, dried cranberry and cocoa powder. There’s a rich entry of chocolate, dried cherry, red currant and cedar. Its pleasing structure features gentle tannins.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 84 cases
Alcohol: 14.2%
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