Northstar Columbia Valley Merlot

Dry, dark, lush and velvety. This is a full-bodied Merlot with concentrated fruit and polished structure. The nose shows blackberry, mulberry and black cherry. The palate brings dark chocolate, cherry and cedar, with a hint of graham cracker. French oak adds vanilla and toast. The tannins are smooth and supple, and the finish is rich and lingering.

Northstar, based in Walla Walla, was founded to make world-class Merlot in the Bordeaux tradition. This Columbia Valley bottling blends Merlot from a select group of top vineyards across the appellation with a portion of Cabernet Sauvignon for structure. Grapes are fermented with a share of whole berries, then aged in French oak barrels for well over a year, with regular racking. It is bottled at 14.5% ABV in a 750 mL bottle.

Enjoyable now and should age gracefully for many years. Serve just below room temperature with prime rib, pork ribs or herb-roasted chicken.