It's full of blackberry and cherry and is chewy - but not to excess. Jammy and lush with a slight hint of green peppercorn on the finish. Tannins could use a little more time to mellow out or pair with beef, game or lamb. Pepppercorn steak with grilled potatoes would be lovely with this wine.

Previous vintage notes

New release 6/04- Wine Press NW rating "Outstanding"

"Winemaker Don Corson's reds are consistently elegant, and he has crafted another superb Merlot high in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains. Aromas of violets and spices meld with pipe tobacco and tar on the nose, while lean, delicious fruit waltzes across the palate. Beautiful balance is the hallmark of Camaraderie, and it's clearly evident in this superior wine." The grapes are from Chandler Reach, within eyeshot of Red Mountain, and Fred Artz' vineyard on Red Mountain at the far eastern end of the Yakima Valley. Grapes from these vineyards make for structured wines that might be confused with the mouthfeel of Cabernet Sauvignon.