De Lille Cellars, Columbia Valley (Washington) 2008

 Vintage 2008 was a good one for Merlot in the Columbia Valley and this complex blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, was sourced from an impressive 15 vineyards.  The color is a brilliant deep ruby and the forward aromatics are deep and complex with cedar, dried herbs and blackberry accents.  The wine is richly-textured with medium-full flavors, hints of spice, 14.7% alcohol and good length.  DeLille’s winemaking staff deserves a special nod for keeping all the components of this juicy expressive wine together.