Columbia Crest Winery-Grand Estates-Merlot-Columbia Valley-Washington State-2011-13.5% Alcohol-$9.79-A nose of cherry and spice, dark garnet in color. A medium bodied smooth red, with black cherry, berries, smoke and spice on finish, a good QPR. WS-89 WE-90 CR-88 Good with meats, chicken, pasta.
Lava Vine Vineyards-Viognier-North Coast-California-2012-14.6% Alcohol-$29.33-A nose of citrus and spice, golden in color. A medium to full bodied white with rich flavors of pineapple, pear, guava, and crème Brule. Good acidity, very refreshing, not as great as the 2011 Napa Valley. NR CR-89 Good with seafood, cheeses, salads.