2020 Northstar Winery Merlot Columbia Valley
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
Featuring 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2020 Columbia Valley Merlot presents a plumy, juicy and firm profile with a black-fruited edge, along with hints of dusty red and purple flowers. On the palate, the wine reveals a robust character with bitter dark chocolate notes and firm tannins, making it an excellent choice for barbecued meats. The finish is marked by a firm tannic grip that will remain food-friendly through the end of this decade. The Merlot was aged for 20 months in 34% new French oak. 26,448 bottles produced.
Critic scores
Average Score
Eric Guido, Vinous
Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2020 Merlot is delicate and subdued in the glass, with savory herbal hints and underbrush giving way to subtle blackberry. Silky smooth and ripe in style, this flows across the palate with blue-toned fruits. It finishes a bit short—almost diluted in feel, with a wild berry tinge.
Notes of toasted spices, dark plums, chocolate cedar and asphalt. Polished and dusty on the palate with a full body and firm tannin structure. Dark-fruited and crunchy, with a rich, toasty, warm finish. Drink now.