Novelty Hill Stillwater Creek Vineyard Merlot, Columbia Valley, USA

新奇山靜溪葡萄園梅洛干紅葡萄酒

點擊次數：3516

The 2005 Merlot Stillwater Creek Vineyard offers a more saturated dark ruby color. Fragrant red currant and black cherry aromas are attractive. This is followed by a slightly lean but correct Merlot in need of more depth and concentration. Drink it over the next 4 years. Novelty Hill is owned by venture capitalist Tom Alberg. He also owns Stillwater Creek Vineyard located on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills which was planted in 2000. Last year the winery moved into its impressive new building in Woodinville. In addition to sharing the space with Januik Winery, Alberg also employs Mike Januik as winemaker for Novelty Hill. Tel. (425) 481-8317; www.noveltyhillwines.com

The estate vineyard Merlot includes a splash of Cabernet and Petit Verdot; it’s beefed up considerably from the regular Columbia Valley Merlot. More muscle and weight translates more to a stylistic choice than a better wine; both Merlots are substantial and satisfying, with much more flesh to the red fruit flavors, and the tannic backbone to carry the wine through a smooth finish.——P.G.(12/1/2008)—— 90