For thoughts on Chateau Ste Michelle’s uniqueness and recent evolution, consult my extensive April, 2013 text designed to introduce recent tasting notes.Clove and licorice accent the dark cherry fruit of Ste Michelle’s 2009 Merlot Cold Creek Vineyard, whose ripeness is accompanied by slightly grainy tannins and more obviously reflects the heat of this vintage than did the corresponding bottling from cooler, breezier, waterside Canoe Ridge. Bittersweetly persistent, but without the sort of mouthwatering appeal possessed by the best reds from this winery and with a hint of heat from its 15.5% alcohol, I would plan on enjoying this over the next 2-3 years. Typical for this bottling, it contains around one-quarter combined of other Bordelais varieties and Syrah. Tel. (425) 488-1133