The 2011 Merlot is medium-bodied, plump, approachable and easy-drinking. Giving up pretty plum, earth, lead pencil and hints of herbaceousness, it will not make old bones but will drink nicely for 3 to 4 years.
Made by Casey McClellan, these are superb, classically styled wines that are more than reasonable priced. His 2011s are quite strong here and while it wasn’t able to taste many of his 2012s, they appear to be a step up.
Tel. (509) 529-7198; www.sevenhillswinery.com