2004 Quilceda Creek Columbia Valley Merlot Photograph by Mark B. Bauschke Used with permission

Winemaker's comments
This wine displays many layers of flavors and a complexity rarely seen in New World Merlot. Lush red and black fruits, licorice, spice and smoke describe this unctuous wine. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.

Reviews
2004 Merlot

International Wine Cellar Review

"($72; contains 12.5% Cabernet Franc) Good saturated medium ruby. Very sexy aromas of blackberry, cassis, black truffle, cocoa powder and smoked meat (very Taransaud!). Fat, lush and rich; a compellingly full Washington State merlot with uncanny thickness to its flavor of sweet black raspberry. Finishes with lush, broad tannins and lovely length."
Score: 93

Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Nov/Dec 07

Wine Advocate

"The 2004 Merlot includes 12% Cabernet Franc in the blend and was sourced from the Champoux and Tapteil Vineyards. The wine was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. Purple-colored, it has a splendid perfume of pain grille, spice box, cranberry, red and black currants, and red licorice. This is followed by a lush Merlot that offers layers of sweet fruit, complex flavors, light tannins, and a sense of sophistication. This superb Merlot can be enjoyed now but will add complexity and fill out with another 5-6 years in the cellar. It should provide pleasure through 2024."
Score: 94

Jay Miller, Wine Advocate, Closing Date: 8-31-07, Issue 172