Chateau Ste. Michelle 2008 Cold Creek Vineyard Merlot (Columbia Valley (WA))

Country: US / Cold Creek Vineyard
Variety: Merlot Washington
Winery: Chateau Ste. Michelle / Columbia Valley (WA)

Reserve caliber fruit—a throat-coating mix of blueberry, cherry and cassis—rolls into a rich, full throttle wash of barrel flavors. Toast, smoke, espresso and dark chocolate give the wine depth and gravitas. Ageworthy to be sure, but also enjoyable right now.