The 2005 Uriah is composed of 59% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot aged in approximately 50% new French oak. Purple-colored, it has an attractive bouquet of pain grille, pencil lead, spice box, and an amalgam of red and black fruits. This is followed by a supple-textured wine with good grip, layers of savory, spicy flavors, and a firm structure. It will evolve for 2-3 years with this Saint-Emilion look-alike being at its best from 2012 to 2020. Spring Valley Vineyards is a Washington rarity, a winery that uses 100% estate-grown fruit to make its wines. The brand is now owned by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates but the Derby family continues to own the vineyard. The winery began operations in 1999 and currently has 45 acres in production with the potential to grow. The wines are named after prominent deceased family members.

Purple and black fruits spread across the midpalate, with herbal, tannic flavors from the Franc and floral highlights from the PV. There is a bit of a hole in the middle, and the tannins seem to hit a bit hard following that drop-off. It could be a phase, or it could be a failing.——P.G.(7/1/2008)—— 88