I'll admit that I've never been to Columbia Valley, Washington, but it seems that I need to make a trip sometime. The wines that are coming out of this region are really putting a smile on my face these days, and the 2015 Readers Merlot from Bookwalter Winery is no exception. What's the first thing wine snobs will look at when they see this bottle? The screw top. While I love the resounding "pop" of a cork, I also learned all too long ago that screw tops technically are the best best for most wines: no tainted corks, renewable resource in recyclable caps, etc. Ok, I just realized I haven't talked about the wine at all and clearly it is the star of this show! This is a blend of Merlot (90%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (10%) and it presents itself very stoically in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, hints of blueberry and chocolate and it you're a super-swirler like I am, you might even pick up some green earth and cherry tobacco. Incredibly soft tannins welcome the mouth and flavors of black cherry pie filling, chocolate chips, and cedar. Don't let the alcohol content (pushing 15%) scare you; this is not hot at all. This drinks incredibly well and would be a bison burger's best friend!
ABV: 14.9%
Columbia Valley, Washington
Suggested retail price: $28.00
Drink The Bottles Score: 90/100
