2010 Chateau St. Michelle, Columbia Valley, Merlot

 2010 Chateau St Michelle, Columbia Valley, Merlot   $13

Several years ago I got really burnt out on Merlot and have shied away from it since.  I’m glad I gave this wine a chance because it is unbelievably delicious.  At first pour, the color is beautiful deep ruby-red with tinges of brick at the very edges.  The aroma is succulent black fruit and chocolate.  The flavors are prominent black cherry and plum followed by a light chocolate flavor and the finish is a pleasant smoky oak.  I would serve this with a juicy rib-eye steak, smoky barbequed ribs, or just alone (it’s that delicious!).

4 out of 5 stars.  I regret that I only purchased one bottle and will be heading back to the store to pick up a case.  Hopefully, the price is still $13 because I could see this wine being much more expensive.  If you have the opportunity to pick up a case, try cellaring a few of this one for a few years and see how it ages.  That’s what I plan to do.  I think it will develop even more complexity in the flavors.