Saturday, January 7, 2012

Columbia Crest Grand Estates - Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon

Columbia Crest Grand Estates wines were on special ($8) so I did a tasting on three of their varietals.  These wines are all from the Columbia Valley in Washington.   

Columbia Crest Grand Estates 2009 Chardonnay.  In the plastic tasting cup I was only able to detect pineapple on the nose.  The flavor had a hint of tropical fruit and spice.  It was crisp, slightly creamy and buttery.  For my palate there was too much acidity and that killed the flavor for me.  Most customers did not enjoy.  

Winemaker's Notes:   Aromas of poached pear, caramel apple, spice and a hint of blossoms precede a mouthful of bright fruit, reminiscent of a fresh Gala apple. The refined flavors of this crisp Chardonnay end with a gracefully lingering finish of cream and butter nuances.  

Columbia Crest Grand Estates 2008 Merlot.  This was a medium body wine and had a berry nose.  The flavor - slight berry and spice.  Low to medium acidity and low tannins.  Customers enjoyed. 

Winemaker's Notes:   Aromas of vanilla bean, coffee bean, and mocha introduce this classic Merlot.  Dark chocolate covered cherries, caramel and nutmeg flavors meld with silky tannins and create a long and elegant finish.  

Columbia Crest Grand Estates 2009 Cabernet.  This had a quick burst of fruit on the palate, spice on the finish, medium tannins.  Customers enjoyed. 

Winemaker's Notes:   Exhibiting big, bold flavors, our Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon highlights these classic characteristics while softening the edges just enough to call attention to delicate aromas and fruit complexity. Aromas and flavors of black cherry, plum and spice on the mid-palate are complemented by smooth tannins on the finish.

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