A more serious effort, which was first produced in 1993, the 2010 Merlot Seven Hills Vineyard is a ripe, fleshy effort that has complex aromas of lavender, licorice, spring flowers and plum-styled fruit all emerging from the glass. A blend of 78% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Cabernet Franc, this polished, silky red is medium-bodied, lightly textured and perfectly balanced. It should drink nicely through 2018. Drink now-2018. One of the oldest producers in the Walla Walla Valley, with over three decades of history, L-Ecole 41 has been run by Megan and Marty Clubb since 1989. A relatively large producer, they have distribution throughout the US and produce a solid lineup of both value priced wines and top tier efforts. Tel. (509) 525-0940; www.lecole.com