2003 l'Ecole #41 Seven Hills Vineyard Merlot

[dananne]

We really like the wines coming from this Walla Walla vineyard, and particularly some of the experimenting being done there with new varieties such as Sangiovese. This '03 Merlot was overshadowed by the Pinots last night, but it is a good wine in its own right. It came out of the bottle too cold last night, so all it showed on opening was thin red fruit and oak. After warming and opening, the wine opened up to show dark berry and cherry flavors, with a cedar note and possibly cocoa on the finish. 16% Cab and 6% Cab Franc are part of the blend. Runs about $35 locally, and WS gave it a 91, FWIW. If you've got it, sweet tannins will start to mellow over the next 3-5. Anne thought, "It's good, but it needs a few more years."

[Bucko]

The 2002 was equally good -- gave it 91 points. L'Ecole does a good job with the grape.

[Kcwhippet]

I push this one a lot in the shop and folks come back for more.