Spring Valley continues to evolve under Ste. Michelle ownership. The latest Muleskinner Merlot sports a $10 price increase, but production has been cut in half. The high alcohol (15.1%) and massive scale remain; this is pure, estate-grown Merlot on steroids. The plum and cassis flavors are deeply streaked with earth, dried leaf, and sweet tobacco.——P.G.(12/31/2009)—— 91