Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Valley (Washington) Merlot 2018

 Chateau Ste. Michelle winemaker Brian Mackey described this vintage as having had “magical” conditions.  Fifty-five percent of the grapes come from Dineen Vineyards, which is located in the Yakima Valley.  Mackey also added 45% of the wine from Cold Creek Vineyard to the blend which, he said, added “depth and texture.”  Buoyed by 14.9% alcohol this is a big, big red wine, with mouth-filling flavors and explosive textural gradations.  It cries out for steak, but I had it recently with some rich and spicy chili con carne, which was a felicitous pairing indeed.