Review of Washington Wines

2019 Frichette Merlot, Red Mountain ($45)

Sourced from the Scooteney Flats and Quintessence vineyards, this displays a deep ruby-crimson color and rich, sweetish aromas of raspberry, cherry, black currant, crushed roses, mulberry, pipe tobacco, cedar. olive, rosemary, sage and sultry incense. The flavors are generous yet deep and focused, with red fruits that are intermixed with licorice root, Swiss chocolate, French roast and dusty earth. On the back, the wine turns simultaneously chewy and silky, with macerated fruits, roasted pecans, kirsch and cassis liqueurs, moderate oak (50% new French) and touches of suede leather and graphite, followed by a lingering slightly grainy tannin finish. 19/20 points.