Russell Creek 2000 Merlot (Columbia Valley (WA))

Country: US /
Variety: Merlot Washington
Winery: Russell Creek / Columbia Valley (WA)

This has sharp, cedary oak dominating the fruit right now. The fruit is good, solid black cherry, but it is not quite big enough to tackle all that new oak, though some bottle time will help. Good, ambitious winemaking. —P.G.