Good Merlot wines, like this one, should deliver at least a hint of leafy slightly funky notes that offset the ripe fruit flavors. Bob Bertheau’s team at Chateau Ste. Michelle has managed to balance the fruit, herbal nuances and oak so nothing dominates while conveying what I call “not just fruit” flavors. Unlike many Merlots, it finishes slightly bitter, not sweet.
Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Valley (Washington State) Merlot 2010
By Michael Apstein