2003 Northstar Merlot, Columbia Valley Wine Review by Billy

(2002 depicted)

Nose:big round soft berries and poached brandied pear smells (really!) Unique for Merlot but interesting. Oaky vanilla.
Palate:huge rich core of peppery cedar. Well balanced with prominent acid and very soft tannins.
Finish: vanilla and cherry.

Overall: an elegant and subtle Merlot. Unpretentious when decanted and soft on the palate with simple yet elegant flavors.