2008 Northstar Merlot Columbia Valley

(91 Points) The 2008 Columbia Valley Merlot offers up aromas of balsam wood, spice box, tobacco, violets, cassis, and blackberry. Savory on the palate, if slightly austere, another 1-2 years of bottle should fill the wine out. It will drink well through 2023. David “Merf†Merfeld continues to make outstanding Merlots (and now Cabernets) at Northstar, a winery under the Chateau Ste. Michelle umbrella. Wine Advocate #196, Aug 2011