This Merlot beautifully illustrates why 2017 is quickly becoming one of my favorite vintages. A dominant note of ripe bramble fruit and cream explodes from the glass, as if raspberries and blackberries were reduced on the stove and then poured hot over homemade vanilla ice cream. Secondary notes add just a touch of cocoa powder. In my opinion, Walla Walla Valley Merlot is about purity and precision of fruit, and this wine delivers that in spades. The subtle and seamless tannins are not heavy on the palate, but clean and pure. The finish is both rich and acid-laced, making it truly satisfying and refreshing.