It’s rather fitting that the reigning Washington Winery of the Year — and home to the International Mermaid Museum — tops the charts of the Merlot category at the Platinum from esteemed Elephant Mountain Vineyard above the Yakima Valley. The nose is as alluring as a siren’s call with rose petals, black currant, blueberry and oak spice, which encourage a deep dive into its huge fruit of blackberry, black cherry and dark plum. Bold tannins give it what one panelist described as a “kick-ass backbone” and scream for a slab of prime rib. Qualifying awards: Cascadia International (gold), Great Northwest Wine comparative tasting (Outstanding!)
Rating: Double Platinum • 96 points
Production: 300 cases
Alcohol: 15%
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