Columbia Crest Merlot Columbia Valley Two Vines 2004

this wasn't the wine i meant to open tonight, but it was the right wine. the first flavor i noticed was strong butter. i never saw this mentioned by any other people who have tasted it, but the butter flavor was there every sip, no mistaking. on the second sip i noticed a flavor of rubus berries (blackberry, raspberry, salmonberry, etc.) followed by a smooth dark flavor. when i read the vineyards tasting notes i realized the flavor was of cocoa and coffee. as a finale the wine leaves you with a pleasant shot of heat, much like a top shelf vodka worth sipping on its own. the over all feeling of the wine was very smooth and soft, it made me think of the feather pillow i had as a kid. on a budget this is a great wine, and even not on a budget it is worth trying.

Can be one of the best quality-price Merlot made in the US. Round, easy drink with a nose from a much more $$$ bottle.

I'm a new wine drinker and started off with Italian reds, specifically Bolla and Bella Sera. I drank a Bella Sera 2007 Merlot and it paled in comparison to the Columbia Crest Two Vines 2004 Merlot. I was shocked that this washington wine was so rich and powerful, good berry tastes, the acid was definetly there but actually complemented the wine. I will definetly buy more Columbia Crest wine

I am already a fan of CC's Estate-Bottled Merlot, which was my previous anytime favorite. When I saw the Two Vines at an amazing value ($4.50/750ml @Safeway) I thought it was mispriced considering the vintage. But after tasting it that night, I went back and bought a whole cart-ful! Buttery foretaste for sure, chock full of lively berries in the middle, still moderately acidic unless breathed and warmed a good while. Excellent with pasta bolognese or veal!!! 4 for general taste/value but you'll want to give it 5 if you find it at this price!