DiStefano, Columbia Valley (Washington) Meritage 2004

($28): Smooth and polished, with dark berry fruit flavors enhanced by echoes of coffee, chocolate, and sweet vanilla-laced oak, this is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Franc.  Its firm tannins provide a well-defined structure but do not seem excessively astringent, suggesting that the wine should age gracefully. 89 Michael Apstein Feb 19, 2008