By cork
There’s something about Columbia Valley Merlot. We won’t go through the whole routine of how you’re supposed to hate Merlot because of some Oscar-winning independent movie. We’re over it. Great Merlot is awesome, and Merlot from Washington State has a special quality. It’s fulsome. That’s the word for it. Abundant, round, full of flavor and aromas. This 2010 GORDON ESTATE Merlot abounds in aromas of rose petals and lavender. Medium-bodied and silky texture that coats the palate and lingers like a long goodbye, there’s an earthiness and minerality that unmistakably places you in the great outdoors of the Northwest. Vibrant, fresh acidity and rustic smokiness and spice greets you on the finish. Before that, vivid and robust bing cherry and hint of dark chocolate. Now that’s fulsome. –J.M.
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