Waterbrook Winery 2012 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $14

Best Buy! John Freeman took over the winemaking at Walla Walla’s fourth-oldest winery in 2005, so he’s entering his second decade at the helm. Waterbrook has a tradition of producing cellar-worthy Merlot, starting with founding winemaker Eric Rindal, and this product of Precept’s Canyon Vineyard Ranch and Willard Vineyard follows that template. It uses just 20% new American and Hungarian oak — no French — to create aromas of blackberry, black cherry, tar and cocoa powder. On the palate, it carries more of a purple fruit profile with Marionberry, elderberry and blueberry amid a structure of bright acidity and sturdy tannins. Suggested fare includes steaks with portabella mushrooms, rosemary-influenced pork chops and tomato-based pasta dishes.

Rating: Excellent

Production: 2,443 cases

Alcohol: 13.5%

Winery website

One Comment

1. Mike Causland says:

   April 23, 2015 at 3:12 pm

   We have been to Waterbrook a number of times and have thoroughly enjoyed the quality and the company. The quality for the price is another great feature. Sorry no Merlots left in our house and the last bottle of Syrah is being put to good use as I text. A very nice 2007 Reserve. Pretty danged good. Keep up the great work, Mike in Olympia WA.

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