The 2006 Merlot (54%) – Cabernet Franc (46%) was sourced from the Conner Lee and Champoux Vineyards. Opaque purple-colored, it delivers a fragrant bouquet of violets, spice box, fresh herbs, earth, and red currants. It has a smooth entry onto the palate showing plenty of ripe fruit, precision flavors, and an elegant personality. It will evolve for several years and be at its best from 2011 to 2021. Its long finish is reminiscent of a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru. Caleb Foster, owner/winemaker of Buty (pronounced “beauty”) Winery, seems to evolve his talent with each passing vintage. The new releases are outstanding across the board. There are two white wines in the new portfolio Tel. (509) 527-0901; www.butywinery.com