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Chateau Ste Michelle Indian Wells 2011 Red Blend Columbia Valley

Chateau Ste Michelle opens up the refrigerator and dumps everything into this terrific blend.  It is primarily Merlot and Syrah but also includes Malbec, Grenache, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvedre and Cabernet Franc.  The grapes are aged 14-16 months in American and French oak barrels (46% new) and the result is a wine with 13.9% alcohol.

The wine is a deep violet color and the aroma jumps from the glass.  The taste is a jammy dark berry flavor with a hint of vanilla.  The tannins are not overpowering and the finish is long lasting and pleasant.  We thoroughly enjoyed this wine and plan to buy more.

I bought this bottle at Costco for $14.99 but I have read online that Costco has it as low as $11 in some parts of the country.  I do not understand this difference.  Perhaps our local store will lower the price in the future.  It is an excellent wine at $14,99 but it would be extraordinary at $11.

SC Wine Joe rating = 90 points

UPDATE:  March 12, 2015.  I just visited the local Costco and this wine is on sale thru April 4 for $3 off.


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