Barnard Griffin Cabernet-Merlot Columbia
Valley, Washington $14-$18
Grapes sourced from Columbia's Yakima Valley were used to create this non-vintage limited release. A blend of 55 percent Cabernet Sauvignon from the 2000 vintage and 45 percent Merlot from the 2001 vintage, the wine was aged in a combination of American and French oak. A swirl of the glass releases aromas of raspberries, toasty oak and hints of spice. In the mouth, expect layers of dark fruit flavors, soft plum, currant, spice, smoke and dusty, dried fruit flavors. A well-made wine with moderate tannins and balanced acidity. Enjoyable now but will improve over the next several years. Good with meat, game and fowl. Available at Bacchanal and Dorignac's. (Store listings current at press time.)

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