Chateau Ste. Michelle Merlot Columbia Valley 2022 750ml

Chateau Ste. Michelle | Merlot | Columbia Valley, Washington State | 2022

Chateau Ste. Michelle is Washington State's founding winery and most iconic producer, with a history stretching back to 1934. Based in Woodinville, the winery has been instrumental in establishing the Columbia Valley as one of America's premier wine regions — and their Columbia Valley Merlot is one of the most consistent and best-value expressions of Washington State red wine available anywhere.

The Columbia Valley AVA is one of the largest and most diverse wine regions in the United States, stretching across eastern Washington. Its continental climate — with long, sunny days, cool nights, and low rainfall — allows Merlot to ripen fully while retaining natural acidity and freshness. A touch of Syrah is blended in to add a jammy, fruit-forward character that complements Merlot's natural plushness.

The 2022 offers an almost perfume-like nose of black cherry, sandalwood, worn leather, and spice. On the palate, medium-bodied and supple with sturdy tannins and flavors of boysenberry, blueberry, graphite, and black tea, with layers of rich dark red fruit and a long, smooth, sweet finish. Complex yet approachable — a benchmark Columbia Valley Merlot at an exceptional price.

Pair with roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck, mushroom dishes, and aged cheeses.

• Producer: Chateau Ste. Michelle
• Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA, Washington State, USA
• Blend: Merlot with a touch of Syrah
• Vintage: 2022
• Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward red
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2022

• Wine Enthusiast — 91 pts: An almost perfume-like aroma of black cherries, sandalwood and worn leather. Medium-bodied with a supple mouthfeel and sturdy tannins. Boysenberries, blueberries, graphite and black tea. — Michael Alberty