The Velvet Devil Merlot2022

The most popular grape of the 1980s may have gone out of style, but it still makes delicious wines. Merlot has seen a fall in popularity (partly due to the US movie ‘Sideways'), but that has ushered in a time of great values. Washington State produces seductive Merlots with ripe plum, blackberry, chocolate and earthy flavors. These wines are delicious and velvety. Initially known for crafting quality white wines, Washington State came bursting onto the wine scene in the 1980s with its popular Merlots. These wines were not quite as fruit-forward as their counterparts from the Napa Valley. However, they still showcase plenty of the ripe plum, blackberry, and chocolate flavors Merlot is known for, but with an earthier foundation. Today, although not as fashionable as it once was, Washington State Merlot is still being made with amazing quality. In particular, look out for wines from the Walla Walla, Horse Heaven Hills, and Red Mountain areas.