The 2011 Merlot Cabernet Franc Conner Lee Vineyard (labeled simply “Conner Lee Vineyard”) is a blend of 67% Merlot and 33% Cabernet Franc that spent 15 months in one-third new French oak. Semi-opaque purple in color, it offers up an energetic profile with blackberry, tobacco, underbrush, pepper and floral nuances leading to a medium-bodied, elegant and deftly textured palate that has juicy acidity, good balance and a clean finish. Vibrant and perfumed, it is already approachable and delicious, yet should continue to impress for 7-8 years, possibly upwards of a decade. Drink now-2020. This estate is now run solely by Nina Buty Foster, with Chris Dowsett functioning as the winemaker. The wines lean heavily towards the elegant, borderline lean, end of the spectrum so those looking for overflowing richness need to look elsewhere. Nevertheless, they feature gorgeous purity of fruit, energetic textures and overall beautifully made profiles. Tel. (509) 527-0901; www.butywinery.com