Brought up in a big chunk of American oak, the inky colored 2013 Cold Creek Vineyard Merlot (there’s 2% Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend) gives up lots of vanilla, chocolate and assorted dark fruits in a rich, textured, full-bodied, forward style. I could do without the American oak, but this has plenty of fruit and texture, and is a fun drink. Enjoy it over the coming couple of years.

For thoughts on Chateau Ste Michelle’s uniqueness and recent evolution, consult my extensive April, 2013 text designed to introduce recent tasting notes.Clove and licorice accent the dark cherry fruit of Ste Michelle’s 2009 Merlot Cold Creek Vineyard, whose ripeness is accompanied by slightly grainy tannins and more obviously reflects the heat of this vintage than did the corresponding bottling from cooler, breezier, waterside Canoe Ridge. Bittersweetly persistent, but without the sort of mouthwatering appeal possessed by the best reds from this winery and with a hint of heat from its 15.5% alcohol, I would plan on enjoying this over the next 2-3 years. Typical for this bottling, it contains around one-quarter combined of other Bordelais varieties and Syrah. Tel. (425) 488-1133

For thoughts on Chateau Ste Michelle’s uniqueness and recent evolution, consult my extensive April, 2013 text designed to introduce recent tasting notes.With a blend similar to that of its 2009 counterpart and slightly lower 15% alcohol, the Ste Michelle 2008 Merlot Cold Creek Vineyard delivers much more primary juiciness of dark betters, cut, and focus. It’s still however possessed of relatively rustic tannin when compared with the polish of the corresponding Canoe Ridge bottlings. (To give you an idea of this site’s efficacy with Merlot, Bertheau says the Cabernet Sauvignon that’s blended in actually serves to soften the finished blend!) Green tea and bitter dark chocolate offer interestingly contrasting accents and the finish here is impressively persistent and heat-free. Look for at least 3-4 more years of satisfaction from this fine value. Tel. (425) 488-1133

The 2008 Cold Creek Vineyard Merlot is a classically-styled effort with aromas of cedar, spice box, cassis, violets, blackberry, and a hint of balsamic. In the glass it reveals excellent balance and enough structure to evolve for 3-4 years. It will be at its best from 2014 to 2023. Chateau Ste. Michelle's portfolio remains strong.www.ste-michelle.com

Reserve caliber fruit—a throat-coating mix of blueberry, cherry and cassis—rolls into a rich, full throttle wash of barrel flavors. Toast, smoke, espresso and dark chocolate give the wine depth and gravitas. Ageworthy to be sure, but also enjoyable right now.——P.G.(4/1/2012)—— 91