Still showing some signs of life, but not much. Medicinal, alcohol and damp newspaper on the nose. Subdued dark fruit on the palate and no finish to speak of.
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Just a great bottle for the price. Still drinking well, but I wouldn't wait too much longer. Wine is still velvety and luscious, but now has a bit of an earthy edge.
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Dark ruby red. Cassis, deep fruit, and plum on the nose. Silky, velvety texture initially with a follow through of raspberry and a hint of alcohol. Opened up significantly on the second day. Stunning QPR.
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Popped and poured. Darkest garnet almost purple. On the nose, raisin and cedar. On the palate, fruit-forward, full-bodied, extracted with plum, blackberry, cassis, vanilla, oak and a hint of residual sugar. Medium-length finish and lacking a tannic backbone; so, drink now. No one would accuse the H3 of complexity, but at less than $15 a bottle, this is the perfect party wine. Phenomenal QPR.
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For the price, this consistently is a wonderful merlot. Dark fruit on the nose and palate, along with nice tannins and oak, this works well with most foods ... or by itself.
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Maybe just not my style. The flavor profile of cherries is reminiscent of Artificially flavored cherry drinks while chocolate is less like cocoa and more like cheaper chocolate candy. Although I see why it can be a crowd pleaser, it was not good for me. But even if you liked this bottle, do not keep in for a 2nd day because it totally went downhill even with a vacu vin seal.
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< $15 for this wine....what's not to like? Mixed red fruit, a bit of cedar, and floral on the nose. Maybe a touch of anise as well. Palate very much the same. Medium body, tannins and finish.
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I have served this wine on multiple occasions and it has always impressed. Dark color, silky mouth feel. Loads of rich black currant, chocolate, spice and cedar.
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Bright red fruit and good acidity, but body is lacking and there is a little heat on the finish. Overall there are better everyday drinkers available in the 10 - $15 range.
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This never disappoints, especially for the price. I will have to say that the 2007 and 2008 vintages seem to be better than the 2009 I consumed a week or so ago. I know that seems strange for a mass-produced, <$15 wine. Dark purple color, nose of blackberry, spice, and vanilla. Great flavor profiles or dark fruits like blackberry, blueberry, and plum. Notes of caramel, chocolate, coffee, vanilla, and cedar planks with moist leaves and wet rocks. Pairs nicely with a wide variety of foods. A rocking Merlot that I love to have in constant rack rotation.
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2008 significantly less sweet than the 2009 & much prefer it. Delicious everyday drinker, rating at a 90 in part because of the great price point. Chocolate covered cherries, vanilla, velvety mouthfeel. Goes down easy...
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Eastern Washington Merlots have done a great job enhancing the image of this much-maligned varietal, and this wonderful QRP (Quality-Price Ratio) wine from Columbia Crest (H3=Horse Heaven Hills vineyards) demonstrates why that is the case. Lots of fruit from the first sip - plum, cherry and cedar tastes. Medium finish or better which you rarely see with a wine at this price point. We had it with a spicier than planned grilled Buffalo steak, and it did not quite stand up to it, MY BAD. It is not a timid wine, it has lots of character and depth-stronger than a Pinot, for sure. Drinking afterwards we loved the wine and think it is the perfect red sipping wine, GREAT WINE TO BRING TO A PARTY... or to serve at a party and impress...or a nice Tuesday night wine with perhaps a less spicy dish. We are thinking in retrospect it would pair quite well with grilled salmon. Thank You Columbia Crest for making affordable really good wines for those of us on a budget!
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A solid WA merlot. There was more herbaceous tones than previous vintages, but it wasn't unpleasant ... just not quite the balance I'm use to. Still, we enjoyed it!!
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Love a good $12 bottle. Great QPR. Good structure. Dark fruit with nice spice notes some herbs a a meaty undertone. Well balanced but ...
... Its not a 90 point wine. There is a fraction too much heat, a touch out of balance but just barely. Its a great 87 point strong QPR Merlot that I would serve to anyone. Nice wine. Its for some legs left. This should improve with age but I don't know what tte ceiling is. I expect about 89 in about 3 years.
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This guy never fails to dissapoint. Always a pop and pour crowd favorite with an unbeatable QPR, tonight is no different. A quintessential Washington Merlot that is smoot and structured at the same time. The nose holds dark chocolate and anise scents, while the wine itself is awash in floral and red berry notes. Sublte tannins leave a pleasant finish.
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A nose of dark fruit and spice, dark purple in color. A full bodied, bold Merlot, with blackberry, dusty cherry, a mouthful of flavors, great QPR, consistent with last times tried.
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A nice Merlot, though I expected a bit more even at this price ($12) based on the H3 reputation and the TNs here at Cellar Tracker. Still good overall.
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Rock solid bottle, lots of aromas and flavors, drinks much more like a medium to full body washington state cabernet than merlot. Excellent QPR. Overdelivers for parties/mass consumption/wednesday night pizza.
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Aromas and flavors of cherries and chocolate. Velvety texture, medium-length finish. I can't say it's 90pt top-100 quality, but definitely delivers for the price.
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Dark purple/black in glass, pretty nose of leathery blackberry which carries to palate in the form of blackberry pie, blueberries and rich, but not jammy, black cherry compote. Streak of balancing acidity coupled with soft round tannins makes for a very enjoyable bottle, and a very solid expression of HHH fruit from this premier AVA in Washington state. Not a hint of overoaking that was expressed by some previous reviewers, either. Hope they don't get the recognition they deserve, as the $12 pricetag is one of the best QPR's on the shelf today. Paired perfectly with a garlic and thyme/rosemary marinated rack of lamb. 90++
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Very good merlot - excellent QPR. Columbia Crest continues to impress with the quality of their mass produced wines. Had the second half 2 nights later after vacuum sealing and was even better - much smoother with a big finish - than the first night, which shows me this one has some potential in her.
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Deep garnet. Dusty cherry and pomegranate w/ some cocoa. Nicely balanced w/ soft tannins and fresh acidity. Decent finish. It did take a few hours for this to knit together.
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Had by the glass at a restaurant for $10/glass! Liked it. Bought several at Costco for $11 (note here from our 2 bottle). Nice weekday drinker. A little oaky in smell and initial taste but the ripe cherry and later dusty chocolate palate is very nice considering the price. Tannins are very smooth and mostly covered at this time but the vanilla oak palate. Not sure how this will evolve…..but for $11 a bottle it’s worth a case (12 bottles) in the cellar and drink when needed w burgers and defend the wines. Really an easy drinker for most palates that are not looking for the depth and complexity. I like to open a bottle an hour or two before dinner and pour two glasses (for wife and I) and then either pour the balance into 2 175ml screw top bottles for future consumption or just into 1 btl of the 175ml based on how much we are going to drink. The 175ml are good for a couple of days if put back in the cooler. Great job CC on QPR! All I can say is keeping the cab sav in the mix to keep it interesting (don’t lose the chocolate palate from the merlot) vs. going the full merlot route (need that for complexity). Both my wife and I luv the Colombia Crest Walter Clore blend…….loved the 2005 so much that we bought 12 bottles and they are all gone…..the 2006 in nowhere near what we liked in the 2005 ( but still very good for $21), but still better that the H3 for us. Looking forward to tasting the 07 Walter Clore and using the 2008 CC H3 Merlot as a Burger wine ( plus trying the H3 2008 with an open mind).
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This really needed about 3 hours of air for the sharp oak note to round out just a bit. It was much more drinkable with just a few hours of air. Nice value for sure!
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A nose of dark fruit and spice, dark purple in color. A full bodied, bold Merlot, with blackberry, dusty cherry, a mouthful of flavors, great QPR, second time tried recently.
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A brilliant purple juice with very pronounced legs, dripping down the side of the glass. Somewhat faint nose of black currant, jam, cherry, and cocoa is nice, but doesn't do justice to the big flavors coming. Gorgeous palate features strawberry, more jam, velvety chocolate, licorice, and charred wood. And oak, lots of oak, so if that's your thing, this is your wine. Medium acidity works perfectly with smooth tannins to create a medium-full bodied wine with a moderate finish. Even PnP'd, this was very well-balanced and delicious. This could easily be your house merlot. Fantastic.
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Well-colored. Dark. Fine mildly grapey aroma. Very primary. On the palate it is supple and sleek, with pretty fruit that hints at complexity. Still has some tannins a little on the rough side. Nice wine for the price. 5-10-15-6: 86/100.
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Burst-of-fruit-in-your-mouth. It's a great showing from Columbia Crest in WA. Spice on the nose. Earth, cocoa and cherry on the palate. Nice smooth finish. More than great for the price ($15 ave price). Worth buying several bottles (or a case) and putting them down to see how the wine changes in the bottle. WS says the wine will be best 2011 - 2017.
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I found this a tale of two wines; first half of bottle was oaky syrup in a heavy-handed style yet the second half was more balanced and enjoyable. I had this stand-alone with no food because I wanted to see if this could stand on its own. This might be too much in hot weather, a la Aussie red, and I would still choose Trace merlot at this price point.
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not much of a nose but very pleasant to drink. blackberry, brown sugar/vanilla. tannnis are smooth and lush. nothing to complex here but great QPR and went well w/ a burger on the grill 87pts
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After several hours of air, aroma of syrup and dusty oak planks. Fruit has been hijacked. Acidity and tannin balance thru the mid-palate is nice, finish is tart but simple. Old dark fruit with an oak infusion permeates. Overall it's OK, nice sipping wine, although you have to accept the commentary above. I thought it good alone or with a medium dish of light beef and/or sauce.
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Palate: Medium-bodied. Red fruits, plum, oak. Decent acidity. Hot. Medium tannin. Medium finish. Components not well-integrated at this point.
Overall impression: decent QPR. Was hoping for more given WS rating. May settle down with some cellaring. Have a couple of bottles that will rest for awhile.
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What a great wine for $ 11 from Costco. medium-full bodied, berry and chocolate on the nose and palate with some oak. This wine has tannins yet is fleshy and juicy for current drinking. I am constantly amazed how Coulmbia Crest can produce high quality wines at these prices. Go out and buy some to have as a house pour.
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Popped and poured. Purple in the glass. Nose: Cocoa, vanilla, Christmas spice, black fruit. Palate: All of the nose follows through on the palate. Nicely rounded palate of blackberry, cocoa, a little black cherry, charcoal, and some minerality. LOTS of oak, though. Too much oak here. It is overwhelming what would otherwise be a nice wine. The oak masks the sense of place and varietal character here enough to make it a fairly boring modern red wine. Good stuff underneath, though you have to search for it. Once again, I just wish the world would get off this oak kick. Finish is medium.
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Nose of plum, black currant, cedar, vanilla, forest, chocolate, coffee, and blackberries. Lots of fruit and vanilla on the palate. Fruit bomb-y. Very smooth. Short-ish finish. Too much oak for me. Almost milkshake like on the first day. Fortunately, this gets a little better the next day or with lots of air. 84-86
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Had been looking forward to this since it was touted on NPR. Certainly was not a disappointment. Deep, rich color. Pleasant nose. Opened early to rich berry tones. Lots of cherry and a little earth. Nice smooth finish. Glad I bought a case. Excellent value for under $20.
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Purchased at Costco for $11 so I will start by saying this was a great QPR and I will definitely want to buy more. Dark crimson color; initial nose was oak followed by ripe plum and dark fruits; plum, dark berries, bitter dark chocolate, espresso notes and somewhat hot finish. I can understand other tasters comments about the wine not being fully integrated, the wine's transition on the palate is short and the tannins can dominate the short finish. It could use some more time. This is a very good wine and the wife liked it too.
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Popped & ranthrough the Vinturi. Nose was still a bit tight initially but opened up over the evening to give off dark red fruit and cocoa. Tannins are well integrated. This is just a smooth drinker. Dark red & black fruit with some chocolate on the finish.
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3/4 bottle in Boeuf Bourguignon Recipe, 1/4 in my belly - outstanding as usual (6th bottle - all good) unbelievable QPR, this is a Cab drinker’s Merlot – Costco $10.99 – I’m hooked…
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Aroma on this bottle was better, oaky, but fruit was evident too. One to 2 hours of airing and viola, an emergent fruit and decent acidic wine balance, with sufficient tannins to please. Still a nice table wine.
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PnD yesterday and let breathe for 2 hours. Very big but disjointed. Resealed in bottle over night. Deep dense purple color. Vanilla cassis coffee chocolate and blackberry aromas. Medium++ weight nicely textured but present tannins. Big plum cassis and coffee flavours with a spicy vanilla oaky note. It was way too oaky for me yesterday. Really liked it a lot the next day whereas on first taste I would have not bought it again. House wine for the rest of winter as long as it is opened in the morning and violently decanted then allowed to air before dinner.
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Predominantly cassis and oak. Tannins present but just enough to hold everything together. A bit more residual sweetness than ideal, but not too much. All in all, very enjoyable drinker with great QPR.
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Wine Spectator rated this wine a 91 but also said it best 2011 through 2017, so it needs more time in the bottle. Also listed it as #43 wine of the year on it's Top 100 wines list for 2010. Got a bottle on sale for $12.99 so will get a few more and put them away.
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Failry subtle on the nose...a bit of spice and cocoa. This wine isn't particularly my style. Big for a merlot, with plenty of tannin on the finish. A bit too much bitterness and mocha for me, but I appreciate it for what it is. Good value if it's your style, but I won't buy again.
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Stiff and closed. Aroma was spice, dark fruit, some woodiness. Taste was more bitter than past vintages. After it was open for 24 hours, it softened up, exhibited better balance. Overall an OK representation of Wash State Merlot, a bit too tannic and bitter now; better to wait 2-4 years.
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Nose had a distinct merlot character, although subtle. On the pallate, very structured and firm - much more so than the typical merlot I'm accustomed to. Not quite enough fruit to keep up with that; it came off as a bit harsh to me.
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12/7/2016 - Hubjunk wrote: 82 Points
Still showing some signs of life, but not much. Medicinal, alcohol and damp newspaper on the nose. Subdued dark fruit on the palate and no finish to speak of.
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11/13/2014 - Altonplace Likes this wine: 89 Points
A pleasant surprise - nothing wrong with this wine, esp at this price. Fruit and earth, simple.
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11/12/2014 - rbrater Likes this wine: 89 Points
Just a great bottle for the price. Still drinking well, but I wouldn't wait too much longer. Wine is still velvety and luscious, but now has a bit of an earthy edge.
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8/2/2014 - jschoenau wrote: 85 Points
Lovely Merlot with steak
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1/14/2014 - DTWOB Likes this wine: 90 Points
Paired well with beef shank stew and egg noodles. Even used a little in the stock.
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12/7/2013 - rbrater wrote: 90 Points
Dark ruby red. Cassis, deep fruit, and plum on the nose. Silky, velvety texture initially with a follow through of raspberry and a hint of alcohol. Opened up significantly on the second day. Stunning QPR.
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10/26/2013 - bin905 Likes this wine: 85 Points
Over-oaked.
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3/26/2013 - jackfughy Likes this wine: 89 Points
gr8 wine for its price. Full body and bold with quite a lot of barrique but still pleasant.
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3/13/2013 - bcmatthias wrote: 86 Points
A little cloying, but helped by decanting.
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3/1/2013 - macker100 wrote: 88 Points
Nice daily drinker. Vanilla, blackberries on nose. Palate showing rich black fruits, spice.
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11/21/2012 - Santroy wrote: 91 Points
Great dark fruit and woody nose. Another Costco @ $11.00 and Washington find.
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10/21/2012 - Doc Argyle wrote: 88 Points
Nice, smooth easy drinking merlot
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9/22/2012 - joet626 wrote: 90 Points
tasty! Fruity and chocolate notes on the finish
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9/20/2012 - Dagalaifus Likes this wine: 89 Points
Popped and poured. Darkest garnet almost purple. On the nose, raisin and cedar. On the palate, fruit-forward, full-bodied, extracted with plum, blackberry, cassis, vanilla, oak and a hint of residual sugar. Medium-length finish and lacking a tannic backbone; so, drink now. No one would accuse the H3 of complexity, but at less than $15 a bottle, this is the perfect party wine. Phenomenal QPR.
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8/15/2012 - pmbohn wrote:
Great! Enjoy.
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7/4/2012 - pmbohn wrote: 88 Points
Smokey, cherry, good earth and velvet texture. Decant 1hour.
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6/24/2012 - Parnelli wrote: 89 Points
For the price, this consistently is a wonderful merlot. Dark fruit on the nose and palate, along with nice tannins and oak, this works well with most foods ... or by itself.
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6/7/2012 - kcsteve Likes this wine: 89 Points
Consistent with last notes after it was open for an hour. Before decant, it was rather hot this time. Don't recommend pnp.
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4/28/2012 - Wino Joe wrote: 87 Points
Decent Merlot. I don't think it lived up to the WS ratings.
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4/8/2012 - winolee wrote: 84 Points
Maybe just not my style. The flavor profile of cherries is reminiscent of Artificially flavored cherry drinks while chocolate is less like cocoa and more like cheaper chocolate candy. Although I see why it can be a crowd pleaser, it was not good for me. But even if you liked this bottle, do not keep in for a 2nd day because it totally went downhill even with a vacu vin seal.
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4/5/2012 - bcmatthias wrote: 85 Points
Dark fruit. Something a little cloying about it.
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3/21/2012 - dougfbs wrote:
Bad bottle - nothing there. Too old?
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3/13/2012 - cknibb wrote: 89 Points
Still a sold wine and great QPR.
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2/24/2012 - ctjared wrote:
Much less perfumed then other vintages I have had. Very solid.
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2/18/2012 - 3daywinereview.com wrote: 89 Points
Ripe fruit, smoke, vanilla and earth. Good concentration and balanced overall. Medium finish and a crowd pleaser. For $8.97 few are better.
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2/7/2012 - jc510 wrote: 88 Points
Great QPR, wish it had a bit more structure.
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2/2/2012 - kcsteve Likes this wine: 90 Points
< $15 for this wine....what's not to like? Mixed red fruit, a bit of cedar, and floral on the nose. Maybe a touch of anise as well. Palate very much the same. Medium body, tannins and finish.
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1/28/2012 - nd1der wrote: 91 Points
I have served this wine on multiple occasions and it has always impressed. Dark color, silky mouth feel. Loads of rich black currant, chocolate, spice and cedar.
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12/15/2011 - ctjared wrote:
Solid, even on the second night
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12/6/2011 - jkad wrote: 80 Points
Bright red fruit and good acidity, but body is lacking and there is a little heat on the finish. Overall there are better everyday drinkers available in the 10 - $15 range.
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11/26/2011 - tjdripper wrote: 90 Points
This never disappoints, especially for the price. I will have to say that the 2007 and 2008 vintages seem to be better than the 2009 I consumed a week or so ago. I know that seems strange for a mass-produced, <$15 wine. Dark purple color, nose of blackberry, spice, and vanilla. Great flavor profiles or dark fruits like blackberry, blueberry, and plum. Notes of caramel, chocolate, coffee, vanilla, and cedar planks with moist leaves and wet rocks. Pairs nicely with a wide variety of foods. A rocking Merlot that I love to have in constant rack rotation.
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11/24/2011 - JenXH wrote: 90 Points
2008 significantly less sweet than the 2009 & much prefer it. Delicious everyday drinker, rating at a 90 in part because of the great price point. Chocolate covered cherries, vanilla, velvety mouthfeel. Goes down easy...
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11/15/2011 - Z1nnfull wrote: 88 Points
Eastern Washington Merlots have done a great job enhancing the image of this much-maligned varietal, and this wonderful QRP (Quality-Price Ratio) wine from Columbia Crest (H3=Horse Heaven Hills vineyards) demonstrates why that is the case. Lots of fruit from the first sip - plum, cherry and cedar tastes. Medium finish or better which you rarely see with a wine at this price point. We had it with a spicier than planned grilled Buffalo steak, and it did not quite stand up to it, MY BAD. It is not a timid wine, it has lots of character and depth-stronger than a Pinot, for sure. Drinking afterwards we loved the wine and think it is the perfect red sipping wine, GREAT WINE TO BRING TO A PARTY... or to serve at a party and impress...or a nice Tuesday night wine with perhaps a less spicy dish. We are thinking in retrospect it would pair quite well with grilled salmon. Thank You Columbia Crest for making affordable really good wines for those of us on a budget!
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10/27/2011 - bcmatthias wrote: 85 Points
Too strong of an edge. May need to sit for a bit.
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10/20/2011 - ctjared wrote:
consistent from last note.
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10/18/2011 - jackfughy Likes this wine: 91 Points
too good for it's price, i could not expect anything better.
very well balanced medium bodied merlot.
may even improve in some years.
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9/20/2011 - pickhardt wrote: 87 Points
Nice, pleasant value. Nothing fancy, but I would rebuy.
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9/14/2011 - Parnelli wrote: 88 Points
A solid WA merlot. There was more herbaceous tones than previous vintages, but it wasn't unpleasant ... just not quite the balance I'm use to. Still, we enjoyed it!!
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9/11/2011 - dk0s0v3c wrote: 87 Points
good for the money, but nothing special. would make a solid house wine.
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9/5/2011 - 3daywinereview.com wrote: 88 Points
Oak, dark fruits and vanilla come together to create a good Washington State wine for the money. This should go good with burgers or pizza.
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9/2/2011 - jedly wrote: 86 Points
a Cheap easy drinker; nothing to write home about.
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8/15/2011 - baseballvino wrote: 87 Points
Love a good $12 bottle. Great QPR. Good structure. Dark fruit with nice spice notes some herbs a a meaty undertone. Well balanced but ...
... Its not a 90 point wine. There is a fraction too much heat, a touch out of balance but just barely. Its a great 87 point strong QPR Merlot that I would serve to anyone. Nice wine. Its for some legs left. This should improve with age but I don't know what tte ceiling is. I expect about 89 in about 3 years.
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8/7/2011 - DCSteve wrote: 88 Points
Nice merlot for the price.
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8/6/2011 - Tri Wine wrote: 89 Points
This guy never fails to dissapoint. Always a pop and pour crowd favorite with an unbeatable QPR, tonight is no different. A quintessential Washington Merlot that is smoot and structured at the same time. The nose holds dark chocolate and anise scents, while the wine itself is awash in floral and red berry notes. Sublte tannins leave a pleasant finish.
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7/23/2011 - snaff wrote: 89 Points
Delicious full flavored merlot with dusky blackberry, spices and a lingering finish. Great QPR.
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7/22/2011 - bcmatthias wrote: 88 Points
Dark and fruity. Yeasty and young, but very enjoyable. Let cellar for a few more months.
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7/2/2011 - corkscrews wrote:
A nose of dark fruit and spice, dark purple in color. A full bodied, bold Merlot, with blackberry, dusty cherry, a mouthful of flavors, great QPR, consistent with last times tried.
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6/29/2011 - Oakjeff wrote: 87 Points
Blueberry & vanilla on the nose. Soft, smooth, subtle tannins.
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6/26/2011 - Sid_Mac wrote: 85 Points
A nice Merlot, though I expected a bit more even at this price ($12) based on the H3 reputation and the TNs here at Cellar Tracker. Still good overall.
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6/24/2011 - Black Pearl wrote: 89 Points
Rock solid bottle, lots of aromas and flavors, drinks much more like a medium to full body washington state cabernet than merlot. Excellent QPR. Overdelivers for parties/mass consumption/wednesday night pizza.
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6/19/2011 - Evil Homer wrote: 89 Points
Very aromatic nose. Solidly structured and very tasty. Over delivers for the price. Will buy more.
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6/14/2011 - David_T wrote: 88 Points
Aromas and flavors of cherries and chocolate. Velvety texture, medium-length finish. I can't say it's 90pt top-100 quality, but definitely delivers for the price.
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6/2/2011 - joshwoodward wrote: 86 Points
Oaky nose, pencil lead. Dry, medium structure. Not huge. Wow, this is mostly tasty, but VERY oaky. Oak oak oak oak oak.
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6/1/2011 - ctjared wrote:
classic columbia crest, very perfumy nose, big mouth feel, smooth tannins.
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5/29/2011 - Li6 wrote: 90 Points
Rich cherry fruit with chocolate notes - like a vinous Raisinette. Nicely balanced too.
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5/25/2011 - Snoman wrote: 90 Points
Dark purple/black in glass, pretty nose of leathery blackberry which carries to palate in the form of blackberry pie, blueberries and rich, but not jammy, black cherry compote. Streak of balancing acidity coupled with soft round tannins makes for a very enjoyable bottle, and a very solid expression of HHH fruit from this premier AVA in Washington state. Not a hint of overoaking that was expressed by some previous reviewers, either. Hope they don't get the recognition they deserve, as the $12 pricetag is one of the best QPR's on the shelf today. Paired perfectly with a garlic and thyme/rosemary marinated rack of lamb. 90++
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5/25/2011 - mattyboy76 wrote: 88 Points
No formal notes, but a merlot that drinks way above the price point. Full bodied with a good finish. Will buy more.
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5/23/2011 - Tri Wine wrote: 90 Points
Very good merlot - excellent QPR. Columbia Crest continues to impress with the quality of their mass produced wines. Had the second half 2 nights later after vacuum sealing and was even better - much smoother with a big finish - than the first night, which shows me this one has some potential in her.
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5/18/2011 - NuTricks wrote: 90 Points
Deep garnet. Dusty cherry and pomegranate w/ some cocoa. Nicely balanced w/ soft tannins and fresh acidity. Decent finish. It did take a few hours for this to knit together.
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5/8/2011 - LelouchViBritannia wrote: 87 Points
Bottle variation present - 4th time I am drinking this vintage, yet scores range from 87-91. Some bottles have dusty sediments some don't.
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4/30/2011 - enjoywine wrote: 87 Points
Had by the glass at a restaurant for $10/glass! Liked it. Bought several at Costco for $11 (note here from our 2 bottle). Nice weekday drinker. A little oaky in smell and initial taste but the ripe cherry and later dusty chocolate palate is very nice considering the price. Tannins are very smooth and mostly covered at this time but the vanilla oak palate. Not sure how this will evolve…..but for $11 a bottle it’s worth a case (12 bottles) in the cellar and drink when needed w burgers and defend the wines. Really an easy drinker for most palates that are not looking for the depth and complexity. I like to open a bottle an hour or two before dinner and pour two glasses (for wife and I) and then either pour the balance into 2 175ml screw top bottles for future consumption or just into 1 btl of the 175ml based on how much we are going to drink. The 175ml are good for a couple of days if put back in the cooler. Great job CC on QPR! All I can say is keeping the cab sav in the mix to keep it interesting (don’t lose the chocolate palate from the merlot) vs. going the full merlot route (need that for complexity). Both my wife and I luv the Colombia Crest Walter Clore blend…….loved the 2005 so much that we bought 12 bottles and they are all gone…..the 2006 in nowhere near what we liked in the 2005 ( but still very good for $21), but still better that the H3 for us. Looking forward to tasting the 07 Walter Clore and using the 2008 CC H3 Merlot as a Burger wine ( plus trying the H3 2008 with an open mind).
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4/23/2011 - Rick B wrote: 84 Points
Colossal disappointment after I had read so much about this wine....and I'm a Columbia Crest fan to boot. Oh well...
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4/22/2011 - last chance wrote: 88 Points
This really needed about 3 hours of air for the sharp oak note to round out just a bit. It was much more drinkable with just a few hours of air. Nice value for sure!
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4/15/2011 - corkscrews wrote: 89 Points
A nose of dark fruit and spice, dark purple in color. A full bodied, bold Merlot, with blackberry, dusty cherry, a mouthful of flavors, great QPR, second time tried recently.
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4/14/2011 - mguglielmo Likes this wine: 89 Points
A brilliant purple juice with very pronounced legs, dripping down the side of the glass. Somewhat faint nose of black currant, jam, cherry, and cocoa is nice, but doesn't do justice to the big flavors coming. Gorgeous palate features strawberry, more jam, velvety chocolate, licorice, and charred wood. And oak, lots of oak, so if that's your thing, this is your wine. Medium acidity works perfectly with smooth tannins to create a medium-full bodied wine with a moderate finish. Even PnP'd, this was very well-balanced and delicious. This could easily be your house merlot. Fantastic.
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4/13/2011 - The Wine Write wrote: 85 Points
Popped & poured over 2 nights. Pleasant drinker & good QPR, but nothing special. A bit too oaky for me.
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4/3/2011 - MicklethePickle wrote: 86 Points
Well-colored. Dark. Fine mildly grapey aroma. Very primary. On the palate it is supple and sleek, with pretty fruit that hints at complexity. Still has some tannins a little on the rough side. Nice wine for the price. 5-10-15-6: 86/100.
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3/23/2011 - kbrater wrote: 90 Points
Burst-of-fruit-in-your-mouth. It's a great showing from Columbia Crest in WA. Spice on the nose. Earth, cocoa and cherry on the palate. Nice smooth finish. More than great for the price ($15 ave price). Worth buying several bottles (or a case) and putting them down to see how the wine changes in the bottle. WS says the wine will be best 2011 - 2017.
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3/23/2011 - peeks13 wrote: 86 Points
I found this a tale of two wines; first half of bottle was oaky syrup in a heavy-handed style yet the second half was more balanced and enjoyable. I had this stand-alone with no food because I wanted to see if this could stand on its own. This might be too much in hot weather, a la Aussie red, and I would still choose Trace merlot at this price point.
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3/21/2011 - awinejourney wrote: 90 Points
Big dark fruit on the nose with some tobacco. Light acid and tannins. Tons of dark cherries and a lengthy finish.
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3/18/2011 - konadog wrote:
not much of a nose but very pleasant to drink. blackberry, brown sugar/vanilla. tannnis are smooth and lush. nothing to complex here but great QPR and went well w/ a burger on the grill 87pts
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3/13/2011 - winetennis wrote: 87 Points
After several hours of air, aroma of syrup and dusty oak planks. Fruit has been hijacked. Acidity and tannin balance thru the mid-palate is nice, finish is tart but simple. Old dark fruit with an oak infusion permeates. Overall it's OK, nice sipping wine, although you have to accept the commentary above. I thought it good alone or with a medium dish of light beef and/or sauce.
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3/8/2011 - valecnik wrote: 88 Points
Really solid and an all around pleasant drinker. Nice blue and red fruit.
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3/6/2011 - corkscrews wrote: 88 Points
A nose of dark fruit and spice, dark purple in color. A full bodied, bold Merlot, with blackberry, dusty cherry, still a bit tannic but a great QPR.
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3/5/2011 - skin2win wrote: 87 Points
Popped and poured.
Color: deep purple.
Nose: cherry, plum, oak, dusty milk chocolate, spice, rhubarb?
Palate: Medium-bodied. Red fruits, plum, oak. Decent acidity. Hot. Medium tannin. Medium finish. Components not well-integrated at this point.
Overall impression: decent QPR. Was hoping for more given WS rating. May settle down with some cellaring. Have a couple of bottles that will rest for awhile.
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3/4/2011 - wine-enthusiast wrote: 88 Points
What a great wine for $ 11 from Costco. medium-full bodied, berry and chocolate on the nose and palate with some oak. This wine has tannins yet is fleshy and juicy for current drinking. I am constantly amazed how Coulmbia Crest can produce high quality wines at these prices. Go out and buy some to have as a house pour.
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3/1/2011 - BigWineMan wrote: 86 Points
Popped and poured. Purple in the glass. Nose: Cocoa, vanilla, Christmas spice, black fruit. Palate: All of the nose follows through on the palate. Nicely rounded palate of blackberry, cocoa, a little black cherry, charcoal, and some minerality. LOTS of oak, though. Too much oak here. It is overwhelming what would otherwise be a nice wine. The oak masks the sense of place and varietal character here enough to make it a fairly boring modern red wine. Good stuff underneath, though you have to search for it. Once again, I just wish the world would get off this oak kick. Finish is medium.
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2/25/2011 - rmh66 wrote: 86 Points
Nose of plum, black currant, cedar, vanilla, forest, chocolate, coffee, and blackberries. Lots of fruit and vanilla on the palate. Fruit bomb-y. Very smooth. Short-ish finish. Too much oak for me. Almost milkshake like on the first day. Fortunately, this gets a little better the next day or with lots of air. 84-86
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2/24/2011 - dfitzg2 wrote: 92 Points
Had been looking forward to this since it was touted on NPR. Certainly was not a disappointment. Deep, rich color. Pleasant nose. Opened early to rich berry tones. Lots of cherry and a little earth. Nice smooth finish. Glad I bought a case. Excellent value for under $20.
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2/23/2011 - jpakma wrote: 88 Points
Purchased at Costco for $11 so I will start by saying this was a great QPR and I will definitely want to buy more. Dark crimson color; initial nose was oak followed by ripe plum and dark fruits; plum, dark berries, bitter dark chocolate, espresso notes and somewhat hot finish. I can understand other tasters comments about the wine not being fully integrated, the wine's transition on the palate is short and the tannins can dominate the short finish. It could use some more time. This is a very good wine and the wife liked it too.
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2/21/2011 - VinZen wrote: 92 Points
Medium body, luscious cherry flavor with hint of cranberry. Long velvet finish. Will buy more.
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2/18/2011 - The Wine Write wrote: 88 Points
Popped & ranthrough the Vinturi. Nose was still a bit tight initially but opened up over the evening to give off dark red fruit and cocoa. Tannins are well integrated. This is just a smooth drinker. Dark red & black fruit with some chocolate on the finish.
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2/11/2011 - d.w.b Likes this wine: 89 Points
Drank over a few days. For not being a big Merlot drinker, I found this quite enjoyable with coffee and cocoa notes and some menthol on the nose.
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2/11/2011 - cknibb wrote: 94 Points
3/4 bottle in Boeuf Bourguignon Recipe, 1/4 in my belly - outstanding as usual (6th bottle - all good) unbelievable QPR, this is a Cab drinker’s Merlot – Costco $10.99 – I’m hooked…
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2/10/2011 - winetennis wrote: 88 Points
Aroma on this bottle was better, oaky, but fruit was evident too. One to 2 hours of airing and viola, an emergent fruit and decent acidic wine balance, with sufficient tannins to please. Still a nice table wine.
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2/8/2011 - df1962 wrote: 90 Points
PnD yesterday and let breathe for 2 hours. Very big but disjointed. Resealed in bottle over night. Deep dense purple color. Vanilla cassis coffee chocolate and blackberry aromas. Medium++ weight nicely textured but present tannins. Big plum cassis and coffee flavours with a spicy vanilla oaky note. It was way too oaky for me yesterday. Really liked it a lot the next day whereas on first taste I would have not bought it again. House wine for the rest of winter as long as it is opened in the morning and violently decanted then allowed to air before dinner.
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2/5/2011 - Leomania Likes this wine: 86 Points
Predominantly cassis and oak. Tannins present but just enough to hold everything together. A bit more residual sweetness than ideal, but not too much. All in all, very enjoyable drinker with great QPR.
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1/24/2011 - WagesOfZin Likes this wine: 89 Points
excellent value merlot. dark fruits and earthy notes. decent amount of oak but not overpowering. a definite repurchase.
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1/15/2011 - cknibb wrote: 92 Points
Quite possibly the best QPR on the market. Big merlot, great nose and finish. This is a cab drinkers merlot. I am impressed. Love it at this price.
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12/28/2010 - kbrater wrote:
Wine Spectator rated this wine a 91 but also said it best 2011 through 2017, so it needs more time in the bottle. Also listed it as #43 wine of the year on it's Top 100 wines list for 2010. Got a bottle on sale for $12.99 so will get a few more and put them away.
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12/22/2010 - CornDoggyDogg wrote: 85 Points
Failry subtle on the nose...a bit of spice and cocoa. This wine isn't particularly my style. Big for a merlot, with plenty of tannin on the finish. A bit too much bitterness and mocha for me, but I appreciate it for what it is. Good value if it's your style, but I won't buy again.
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12/21/2010 - whits wrote: 87 Points
deep berry and melted chocolate aromas, smooth and rich palate, showing mocha, red berries and some earth, delicious and approachable, nice value
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12/20/2010 - wineward Likes this wine: 87 Points
Nose of brown sugar and crayons. Palate of currants and a slightly bitter espresso note. Slight green celery aftertaste. Very, very good.
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11/30/2010 - WagesOfZin Likes this wine: 89 Points
varietally correct. quite nice for the price.
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10/8/2010 - winetennis wrote: 86 Points
Stiff and closed. Aroma was spice, dark fruit, some woodiness. Taste was more bitter than past vintages. After it was open for 24 hours, it softened up, exhibited better balance. Overall an OK representation of Wash State Merlot, a bit too tannic and bitter now; better to wait 2-4 years.
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9/29/2010 - frockaloid wrote: 86 Points
Nose had a distinct merlot character, although subtle. On the pallate, very structured and firm - much more so than the typical merlot I'm accustomed to. Not quite enough fruit to keep up with that; it came off as a bit harsh to me.
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8/29/2010 - pogy4 wrote:
Gave to Rob's family for hosting summer BBQ
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7/10/2010 - golfhawk wrote: 89 Points
Very good with soft red and black fruit. Could get even better over time.
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