The ruby-colored 1996 Merlot displays lovely aromatics of roses, cherries, and blackberries. This attractively sweet, well-balanced, and medium-bodied wine packs an enormous quantity of red and black fruit in its charming, silky, and lush character. It may be ageworthy, but why wait? Anticipated maturity: now-2004. Tel. (509) 525-4129; www.woodwardcanyon.com.