1998 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot

[newsguy]

my stash of the '98 CC merlot has been gone for more than a year, but i recently came across a '98 among the '00s on a grocery store shelf. i snagged it.

bright red in color, going to orange at the rim. a good initial nose of dusty cherry, with hints of earth, chocolate and spice. good entry, lightens a bit on the midpalate, but picks up strength for a very good finish. over time, spices took the lead on the nose and tongue, and a hint of vanilla snuck in. silky texture, medium body, VG fruit and complexity, fading acidity and no tannins. perfectly mature and perhaps even a bit on the downslope. drink 'em if ya got 'em. 88 points.