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Cold Creek Vineyard

2005 Columbia Valley Merlot

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Vineyard Merlot from the 2005 vintage is a captivating red wine that beautifully expresses the rich terroir of the Columbia Valley. With a full-bodied profile, this Merlot offers a delightful balance of high acidity and profound fruit intensity, showcasing prominent notes of dark cherry, plum, and blackberry. The tannins are notable yet well-integrated, contributing to the wine's smooth texture and inviting character. This well-crafted Merlot is dry, making it an excellent choice for pairing with hearty dishes or enjoying on its own. The lush flavors and elegant structure make this wine a standout example of Columbia Valley's winemaking prowess.

Tasting notes:


Black Cherry

Black Cherry

Chocolate

Chocolate

Oak

Oak

Flavor profile:


Acidity Mild

Low Pronounced

Body Medium

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Tannin Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Region:


Columbia Valley
Columbia Valley

Sheltered by the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains, Columbia Valley is home to the majority of Washington's vineyards. Cool nights keep zippy acidity in the grapes, while long daylight hours give the fruit plenty of chance to ripen. This results in full-bodied Merlot, elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and deeply concentrated Syrah. White wines are just as tantalizing, with toasty oak-touched Chardonnay and ripe stone fruit-flavored Riesling taking the spotlight. Sub-AVAs to look out for are Yakima Valley and Walla Walla. The Columbia Valley is one of the only appellations in the United States to occupy vineyards in two states, as it crosses the Oregon border in the southern part of the valley.

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