A Taste of WA Merlot
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The 1997 season was one that started looking like it was going to be the best one of the decade, the temperatures were warm, though moderate, the weather was dry and there were plenty of shoots that were going to provide an abundant crop, offsetting the previous vintage's shortages. However, in late September, the temperatures dropped, the rains began and it never really warmed up again. The saving grace to the vintage was the amount of wind that the state received, preventing rot from setting in. Those vineyards that picked before the rain, did very well.
Balcom and Moe 1997 - Fairly unique aromas that ranged from black and bing cherry to notes of sugar beet. The wine was surprisingly smooth on the palate, given its bouquet, yet it was also the lightest and easiest drinking.
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Caterina 1997 - Mike Scott and the folks at Caterina are some of the most entertaining and cordial in the business; do stop if your travels find you in Spokane, the wine they make is built for enjoying with food, not for overwhelming it.
A medium bodied wine, this one has the aromas of the sweet French and Hungarian oaks that are employed here as well as a good concentration of merlot's black cherry aromas. There is some pepper and a spiciness to the palate that accentuate the toast-y fruit. Medium-length finish has solid, balancing acidity. 1554 cases produced.
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Canoe Ridge 1997 - One of the richest wines for near term enjoyment, this Chalone property/winery claims it goes well with Van Morrison! This is another selection, like the '95 Columbia Crest, that's pleasing to novice and connoisseur alike.
There are some notes of black pepper in the aromas and palate of the wine that give depth and character to the body and rich jammy ripe dark cherry fruit. The texture is heavy enough to accentuate most any flavorful cuisine, yet has an excellent balance in the long finish. 15,241 cases produced.
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L'Ecole #41 1997 - A national favorite and for good reason. This winery has been producing memorable wines for the last 10+ vintages and this merlot was no exception.
The aromas contained vibrant fruit with notes of sweet caramel-y toast and whisky. The aromas followed through to the palate well with a rich texture and medium length finish.
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Seven Hills "Seven Hills Vineyard" 1997 - One for the cellar!
The firm fruit and tannin were apparent from the aromas
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