Barnard Griffin, Columbia Valley (Washington State) Merlot 2010

Apr 3, 2013

By Paul Lukacs

Washington State’s Columbia Valley remains home to some very fine Merlot-based wines, no matter that the grape variety has fallen out of favor with many consumers.  Bernard Griffin’s 2010 tastes full and rich, with soft but effective tannins, a keen sense of balance, and a long, evolving finish.  Its fruit flavors resemble red more than black berries or plums, and it supports its fruit with an attractive but subtle herbal note in the finish.  This wine will remind you why you used to buy Merlot, and why you perhaps should do so again.

Country / Region

Washington State

Appellation

Columbia Valley

Grape Variety

Merlot

Color

Red

Vintage

2010

Score

90

Price

US $ 20.00

Producer

Barnard Griffin