The 2011 Merlot Canoe Ridge Estate is a rich, textured and straightforward drinker that has ample mulled red and black fruits, milk chocolate and spice in its medium to full-bodied, nicely balanced profile. Drink it over the coming 4-5 years.
Chateau Ste Michelle continues to release high-quality wines that, in most cases, represent superb values. All of these 2011s and 2012s are noteworthy.
Tel. (425) 415-3300; www.ste-michelle.com