The 2008 Merlot Four Vineyards spent 20 months in 40% new French oak. Purple in color, it offers up aromas of balsam wood, tobacco, Asian spices, violets, and cassis. Dense, savory, and structured on the palate, this medium-bodied offering will benefit from 2-3 years of additional bottle age at which point it is likely to merit an outstanding rating. If I was forced to name a single Washington winery offering the best value across the entire range of their portfolio, it might well be Arbor Crest.Tel. (509) 927-9463; www.arborcrest.com

This is 100% varietal, spicy and tart, with fine balance and focus. The fruit trends toward cherry and prune, with an earthy, tannic finish.——P.G.(2/1/2011)—— 88