Columbia Merlot 2016

In Shakira's hit pop record of 2005, 'Hips Don't Lie,' Wyclef Jean beseeches that "he see you move like you come from Columbia." Many have taken these lyrics as a clarion call for Shakira to embrace the dance moves of Latin culture and is considered an overture to 'Humpty Humpty.'

We disagree. Wcleaf Jean is undoubtedly asking the listeners to express the grace and beauty of the wines of Columbia Valley in Washington. After sampling wines such as this Merlot, with elegant notes of dark plum clove and baking spices; it is easy to see why Wcleaf would ask for such a thing... Shakira, Shakira!

Columbia is Washington's original premium winery, making terroir driven Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in a French style, driven by David Lake MW, who brought to life an appreciation from the 10 founders that the vines were on a similar latitude to some of Europe's finest regions.

Columbia produced the first Pinot Gris, Syrah & Cab Franc wines in Washington.
With 50 years of experience the winery is still making some of the best wine in Washington. The rich, full-bodied Columbia Valley Merlot opens with hallmark dark purple color and enticing aromas of plum, clove and baking spice. On the fruit-forward palate, dark fruit flavors of black cherry, wild blackberry and juicy plum are met with pronounced notes of sweet oak, vanilla and hints of mocha for a silky, textured mouthfeel. Notes of ripe raspberry and caramel linger on the generous finish.