The 2008 Merlot Stillwater Creek Vineyard delivers plenty of spice notes, savory red and black fruit flavors, and an enticing nose of cherry blossom, earthy minerals, and leather. This sets the stage for a concentrated wine with excellent volume and length. It has enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years and should drink well through 2020 if not longer. Novelty Hill and Stillwater Creek Vineyard are owned by Tom Alberg. The vineyard, located on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills (way off the beaten path), was planted in 2000 and has acquired a reputation for the high quality of its fruit. Tel. (425) 481-8317; www.noveltyhillwines.com