The 2018 Merlot begins with a lifted nose of dark red fruit and opens to a frame of juicy plum, black cherry and sweet oak tones. Full-bodied and with a ripe mouthfeel, the palate displays buttressing acidity and fine-grained tannins. The wine lingers with a floral, food-friendly finish and delivers well at a great price. Give it a try.

Bright ruby with purple highlights, the 2017 Merlot is expressive in the glass with juicy plum, dark cherry and sweet oak tones of vanilla and cinnamon, before swaying with notions of elegant purple flowers that waft from the glass. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is firm and structured on the palate, with an energetic acidity that matches the tannins and gives the wine complexity. The wine lingers with persistent black raspberry, subtle black spice tones and elements of dusty sage on the finish. Finally, soft elements of crème br?lée evolve on the aftertaste.

Containing 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2016 Merlot begins with a nose of dusty red fruits—plum, juicy cherry—along with aromas of red flowers and hints of dried herbs. Medium-bodied, the palate becomes slightly tart, with red spices and cherry blossoms across the mid-palate. The balanced structure and soft tannins linger through the thoughtful finish. 1,100 cases produced.

Slightly less successful than the Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2013 Merlot is still a rock-solid effort that’s well worth checking out. Cassis, American oak, leafy herbs and black cherries all emerge from the charming, fruit forward, well-made effort that’s geared for drinking over the coming 4-5 years.

Another well-priced release from this estate, the 2012 Columbia Valley Merlot has lots of black fruits, mint and leafy herbs in a big, plump, full-bodied, style. It’s a rocking crowd-pleaser to drink over the coming couple of years as well.