Though the Wine Advocate has been bellowing it for years, it is worth repeating: Columbia Crest is the source of some of the finest values in the world. I am awestruck that winemaker Ray Einberger and his team can produce such quality in industrial-size quantities. Some Merlot (7%) was included in the blend of the herbal black fruit-scented 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve (4,000 cases). This medium-bodied wine offers a flavor profile of wild herb-tinged dark fruits. Satin-textured in the attack and mid-palate, it will benefit from 1-2 years of cellaring to soften its firm structure. Projected maturity: 2008-2015. Tel. (509) 875-2061; www.columbia-crest.com