Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot 2012

Some 2012 west coast red wines are starting to show up in the stores and we are in for a treat. The Wine Enthusiast Vintage Chart shows that 2012 was a great red wine vintage for California but an even greater superb vintage in the Columbia Valley of Washington. In fact, it is the highest rated vintage since before 1990.

I had not drunk a Columbia Crest Grand Estate red wine for a few years. When the Merlot showed up at Costco, I thought I would give it a try and it far exceeded my expectations. The smooth, rich, black fruit taste and pleasant finish were very enjoyable. The wine is 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and has an alcohol content of 13.5%. If this low priced, mass marketed wine is this good, I cannot wait to try more 2012 Columbia Valley red wines. I purchased this wine at Costco for $6.99.

SC Wine Joe rating =89 points.

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