For thoughts on Chateau Ste Michelle’s uniqueness and recent evolution, consult my extensive April, 2013 text designed to introduce recent tasting notes. Displaying some of the high-toned sassafras and floral essences found in the corresponding Canoe Ridge Merlot bottling, Ste Michelle’s 2008 Meritage Artist Series is sappy and pungent; berry-sweet in ripeness; and finely-tannic in feel. With cut, vibrancy, as well as invigorating piquancy and pungency, this finishes strongly and promises to be well worth following for at least the better part of a half dozen more years. Tel. (425) 488-1133

The 2008 Meritage Artist Series is a blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, and small amounts of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. The wine was aged for 20 months in 85% new French oak. Notes of Asian spices, cedar, leather, earthy minerals, violets, and assorted black fruits inform the nose of an elegant, relatively forward, incipiently complex, nicely proportioned wine that offers a drinking window extending from 2012 to 2023. Chateau Ste. Michelle's portfolio remains strong.www.ste-michelle.com

Smooth and supple, this five-grape Bordeaux-style blend is almost two thirds Canoe Ridge estate fruit from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, the rest Cold Creek Vineyard Merlot. Lovely aromas of sandalwood, spice and cocoa lead into a textural wine, with seamless fruit and barrel flavors.——P.G.(12/15/2011)—— 91