The 2007 Merlot was aged in 47% new French oak. Medium purple-colored, it displays a nose of sage, olives, balsam wood, cassis, and black currant. Medium-bodied, ripe, and layered on the palate, this is a savory, spicy Merlot that will evolve for 2-3 years and drink well through 2022. Tel. (509) 525-6502; www.pepperbridge.com

This classic Merlot is roughly half Pepper Bridge fruit, half Seven Hills fruit. What is particularly striking is how it displays enticing floral aromas over deliciously thick fruit, with streaks of coffee, chocolate and forest floor delicately laid in. Complex and tight, it has the potential to cellar for at least a decade, maybe 15 years.——P.G.(2/1/2011)—— 93