($25): Although easy to drink, Snoqualmie’s Reserve Merlot is definitely not an aperitif kind of Merlot.  Lovely succulent black fruit flavors are intertwined with hints of damp earth.  Chocolate nuances appear in the finish. This polished and well-rounded wine has plenty of structure, but no harsh or astringent tannins.  It has more character than many Merlots selling at twice the price. 91 Michael Apstein May 20, 2008