This Columbia Valley Merlot is true to the character of the region, with a firm structure and plenty of meat on the bones. Although tightly wound at this stage of its evolution, the ’08 from Seven Hills exhibits layers of restrained red and black fruit aroma that will likely plump up and flesh out as the wine gains a bit of cellar age. It is drinkable now, but not quite ready for prime time. Give it another year in the bottle and you will think it’s a different wine; a better wine.
