The reds begin with the 2004 Merlot Columbia Valley. Dark ruby, it offers up cedar, cinnamon, tobacco, cassis and black cherry aromas and flavors. There is ample fruit but the wine could use more depth and comes off as slightly superficial although solid and correct. Drink it over the next 4-6 years. Tel. (425) 481-8317; www.noveltyhillwines.com

Lovely aromas greet you straight from the glass, as this young, juicy Columbia Valley Merlot brings its bright cherry-berry fruit right up front. There are intimations of chocolate— nothing too heavy—and a clean finish with a lick of stems in the tannin.——P.G.(12/1/2007)—— 88