Gems in MY Glass . . . March 2009

Canoe Ridge Snipes Vineyard 2006 Riesling:  Enticing floral and mineral notes fill the nose and remain focused with tart apple, bosch pear and white peach flavors mingling harmoniously from first sip to long, memorable finish - glorious! Canoe Ridge 2006 Horse Heaven Hills Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, Washington:  Brilliant pale hue and attractive tropical aromas start this lovely Chardonnay off beautifully.  The palate showcases a juicy mouthful of pineapple, crisp green apple, ripe melon and a splash of citrus that keeps it fresh and lively, and the nicely handled oak treatment adds complexity.Canoe Ridge 2005 Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington:  Crushed blueberries and a touch of oak on the nose expand generously on the palate.  Clean, balanced and full to the brim with juicy Bing cherry, blueberry and plum fruit surrounded by chocolaty toffee and spice notes.  Soft and pleasing with velvety tannins.Canoe Ridge 2005 Block 13 Reserve Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington:  Wow.  Expressive aromatics full of dark black and red fruit grab your full attention.  This impressive Merlot gains complexity on the palate with subtle oak, licorice and a dusting of herbs accenting the juicy fruit.  Smooth, elegant and balanced with well integrated tannins.  Ends with a swirl of caramel on the lingering finish.Canoe Ridge 2005 Horse Heaven Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley Washington: A burst of blackberries greet the nose and follow through on the palate with dark berry and tart cherry fruits accented by licorice and herbs.  Full bodied and well structured with a delightful kick of mint leaves on the finish.   Canoe Ridge Vineyard 2005  Block 1 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon:  Cassis and dark berry aromas waft from the glass and lead to an intense, chewy mouthful of dark berries, black currants, tobacco, and freshly ground peppercorns.  Beautifully focused and deeply flavored with silky tannins and a purity of fruit that really shines through from start to everlasting finish.