Making a case for great Northwest Merlot

Walla Walla Vintners 2012 Yellow Bird Vineyard Merlot, Walla Walla Valley, $38

The Chan family’s promising young vineyard overlooks the iconic red barn along Walla Walla’s Mill Creek, and the collaboration has led to a rich, round and velvety Merlot that’s loaded with tones of black cherry, raspberry soda, vanilla and black pepper.

Rating: Recommended

Production: 147 cases

Alcohol: 14.2%

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