The 2006 Merlot was aged in 25% new French and American oak for 14-16 months. Dark ruby-colored, it delivers a pleasant nose of cedar, vanilla, clove, cassis, and cherry. Supple, ripe, and easy-going on the palate, this medium-bodied effort has surprising persistence and length for its bargain price. Drink it over the next 3 years. Columbia Crest, owned by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, has long been known for the quality of its value-priced wines. The current collection will only enhance the winery’s reputation. Columbia Crest is usually thought of as a producer of value-priced wines selling for under $20. However, their upper-level, limited-production wines merit serious attention as they, too, are value-priced compared to the competition Tel. (509) 875-2061; www.columbia-crest.com