2018 Merlot Columbia Winery
A merlot: more than thirty years ago I went on a first date with my wife: • drove to her house, • actually, got invited in, • sat in one of those overstuffed chairs in her living room, • & she served me a glass of Merlot, …. Which I spilled on her pristine chair! She wasn’t too upset, because she kept stuff to clean stains, spills, and things dropping. And then we went out on other adventures. One adventure took us to Yakama, WA in the Columbia River Valley. The geographic area surrounding Yakama is shaped similarly to a huge Beluga whale. It's home to many wineries along the Columbia River, which produce outstanding wines. While dining in one of the area's many restaurants, we ordered a bottle of Merlot. The Yakama Valley wine was outstanding. Once back home, I ordered a case from the winery. It was then I realized one thing seemed inconsistent with the quality; its cork was a composition cork. Enthusiasm for the Merlot prompted me to write the winery’s owner recommending use of genuine corks. ( genuine corks would allow long-term storage). When there was no reply, this implied no production change. Sort of unique: During our week's tour, I often ask if a winery shipped to Missouri. Most would but others not. There are a few U.S. States which do not allow out-of-state wines. Missouri does allow shipping, but with stipulations such as fees. Here's an unidentified mountain valley gracing the bottle. It's a strange picture since the Columbia River Valley is usually sunny & dry with rolling hills. The big, dense Cascade Mountains pictured are to the East. Even folks who tour the valley aren’t fearful of dropping into some bottomless canyon. So, the label’s photo isn’t from the actual Yakama/Walla Walla area. But is the wine any good? Yes, it WAS a good Washington State Merlot; I would buy another bottle for enjoyment. There was the fruitiness, heartiness of Merlot, and a smooth finish. It’s deep red color spill would make any living room furniture proud and be spot-on any beige, white or light green carpeting.
