Reviews & Ratings

2006 Northstar Merlot "Columbia Valley"

Winery: Northstar

Vintage: 2006

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Columbia Valley"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: 76% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc & 2% Petite Verdot

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Columbia Valley

State or country: WA

Price: $40

Cases produced: 10,000

KWG Score: 90.8 (based on 6 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (91)

Review date: September 2, 2010

Wine Review: This Merlot from Washington State was the winner of our big Blind Merlot tasting. It is slightly opaque and dark ruby colored. It opens with a mild spicy black raspberry bouquet with hints of smoke, blueberry and vanilla. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, nicely balanced, soft and smooth. The flavor profile is a yummy blueberry with nicely integrated oak and spice. The panel also detected some hints of chocolate and pepper. The finish is dry and its moderate tannins linger slightly. The panel suggested pairing this gem with veal marsala or lobster ravioli. Enjoy – KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: This rich wine is concentrated and yet elegant, with aromas of cherry, plum, raspberry, and blackberry, finishing off with flavors of toasted oak, vanilla, coconut, mint, and toffee. Enjoy and celebrate! – David "Merf" Merfeld, Winemaker

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Northstar 2006 Columbia Valley Merlot.