2001 Forgeron Cellars Merlot

[dananne]

Anne and I continue our exploration of Washington wines with a Merlot from Forgeron in Walla Walla (Columbia Valley designation on the wine, however). We rarely drink Merlot, but we had a hodgepodge meal last night of steak (Anne), grilled fake chicken (me -- don't ask), and sun dried tomato and leek risotto. Couldn't decide on a wine, so we popped this.

Decanted 30 minutes before 1st pour and through evening. Deep red/purple color with a nose of blackberry, blueberry, and smokey oak. Firm dark fruit flavors are gripped by a tannic structure that could use a few years to round out, and the thing is lavishly oaked, which really shows on the finish. The finish includes a chocolate note, also. It was an enjoyable bottle that should turn out nicely after a few more years of bottle age. We may pop in for a visit this summer when we head back to Washington. Alc. 14.3%. Paid about $21.

[This message has been edited by dananne (edited 03-06-2006).]

[TheEngineer]

Wow...your 1000th post! What a milestone!

[Bucko]

I like Forgeron. Their wines push the oak limit for me, but they are all well-made wines. Their unoaked Chardonnay is a killer.