Best Buy! Priced for everyday enjoyment, this Precept product from Nine Canyon, Willard and Wallula vineyards begins with a nice approach of red cherry, red raspberry, cranberry, vanilla and white pepper. There's a smooth follow through of ripe raspberry, cherry and plums with mild acidity and a chocolaty finish, thanks to seven months in American oak. Rating: … [Read more...] about Washington Hills 2011 Merlot, Washington, $10
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Columbia Crest 2009 Grand Estates Merlot, Columbia Valley, $12
Best Buy! The Northwest's largest winery continues to do a marvelous job with this tier, and the amount of expression is rather remarkable at this price point. Aromas include root beer barrel candy with plums, dried cherry, chocolate and vanilla. The drink, juiced up by Syrah (11%), is fruit-driven with plum, strawberry, dark cherry and chocolate flavors with mouth-filling … [Read more...] about Columbia Crest 2009 Grand Estates Merlot, Columbia Valley, $12
Chateau Ste. Michelle 2010 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $14
Best Buy! One of Washington's largest productions of Merlot also serves as a delicious example of what the state is doing with the variety, despite a vintage that started three weeks late. Its inviting nose hints at dark cherries, blackberries, fresh espresso, cherry wood and Costa Rican cardamom. On the palate, it's big, smooth and well balanced with sweet blackberry, cherry, … [Read more...] about Chateau Ste. Michelle 2010 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $14
Sagelands Vineyard 2010 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $13
Best Buy! Seattle-based Precept Wine has rescued and revived this Yakima Valley brand that dates to 1984, and it continues to keep the prices affordable. Contributing vineyards include Canyon Vineyard Ranch, Doval, Oasis and Wallula. There's no shortage of fruit in the nose with its hints of cherry pie crust, vanilla and strawberry fruit leather. Thankfully, there's a match on … [Read more...] about Sagelands Vineyard 2010 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $13
Boomtown 2010 Merlot, Washington, $15
Best Buy! Dusted Valley Vintners in Walla Walla began collaborating with Wahluke Wine Company in 2006, and this mellow Merlot ranks among their best efforts. Its expressive nose includes dark aromas of dusty black cherry, black licorice, raspberry, Craisins and pipe tobacco. The entry is downright yummy with plush boysenberry and more ripe raspberries. Its pleasing structure … [Read more...] about Boomtown 2010 Merlot, Washington, $15