I reviewed a number of Chateau Ste Michelle wines and enjoyed them. They are from Washington State. Dark in color lovely rich nose with plum coming through. On mid pallet plums are there but quickly backed by some firm tannins acidity and even some mild bitterness straight out of the bottle. This wine is just too young or needs some breathing. After even as little as 20 minutes in the glass the finish was easing nicely leaving a nice fruit forward Merlot. A year in the cellar would help immensely. Sadly not at the LCBO right now. I am sure it will come back. I had it at Joey’s. Winery’s web site. I would give it an 89 or so. $15 at the winery.
From the winery’s web site:
We craft this wine to be our complex yet approachable Merlot. The wine offers aromas of black cherry, leather and spice with layers of rich dark red fruit flavors and a long, smooth, sweet finish. A touch of Syrah adds a jammy fruit character. I think of this wine as a great “everyday red”.
