Washington state wine fans should know that the Seven Hills Vineyard is planted on the Oregon side of the Walla Walla appellation. Thus these are wines made from 100% Oregon fruit. Seven Hills has consistently done fine work with its Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon produced from the Seven Hills Vineyard. The 1990 Merlot is close to being a blockbuster. It possesses considerable tannin for a Merlot. The thick, dark ruby/purple color, the rich, cherry, chocolatey, toffee-scented nose, and deep, chewy flavors are a result of modest yields and considerable extraction of fruit. The wine is in a burly stage of evolution, but sweetness and richness of fruit are clearly present. Don't be surprised to see it turn out to be an outstanding wine. Drink it between 1994-2003.