A taste of Legacy: Just behind Olsen Estates in Vintner Village is Milbrandt Vineyards’ winery and tasting room, which opened in May. Milbrandt won Double Gold and Best Merlot for their 2005 Legacy Merlot at the San Francisco International Wine Competition this year. It's no wonder. This expert winemaking team is made up of brothers Butch and Jerry Milbrandt, renowned for growing some of our state's finest wine grapes, partnered with master Merlot winemaker Gordon Hill, who was originally involved in the creation of Northstar (see below).

Over the hill: The ultimate tour and taste through Washington’s Columbia Valley Merlots would not be complete without a visit to Columbia Crest Winery in Paterson, on the Columbia River. Take home a vertical of their classic reds or just go straight for the Grand Estates Merlot, and raise a glass to another anniversary - the winery's 25th. The vineyards were planted in 1979, and since the winery opened in 1983, Columbia Crest's red wines have been some of the most popular in the United States.

Layers of flavor: On your way from Prosser to Richland, you’ll find more notable viticulturists who now produce their own wine, outstanding Merlots in particular. The Monson family has farmed here for four decades, founding Goose Ridge Estate Vineyards and Winery in 1999. Their Merlot is handcrafted by veteran Columbia Valley winemaker Charlie Hoppes of Fidelitas. Try their latest release, the 2005 Estate Merlot, which Charlie says has "layers of ripe cherry, blackberry, mocha and anise," and "a long and supple finish."

Muscle power: Since Roger Gamache and his brother Bob first planted their vineyards in 1982, their grapes have been used to make some of the best wines in Washington. Today, Gamache Vintners in Richland handcrafts their own estate wines in small lots. Wine Enthusiast says of the 2005 Estate Merlot, "This is a tight, rather austere style of Merlot, but has muscle and nerve." There's nothing like years spent in the vineyards to make you strong.

Foreshadow to future: Another Merlot great in Richland is Bookwalter Winery. Jerry Bookwalter, one of the state's most respected grape growers, and his son John, a 10th generation Bookwalter to be involved in American agriculture, have focused their attention primarily on red wines. Pick up a few bottles of the just-released 2006 Foreshadow Merlot, which John asserts is "an exceptional vintage that truly expresses Washington’s blend of old and new world charm, forward red and dark fruit wrapped with a dusty, earthy, minerality."

You know it when you see it: Add to that list Barnard Griffin, which just won a Best of Class/Gold Medal at the Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition for their 2005 Reserve Merlot, so get it while you can. The 2006 Tulip Merlot also pairs perfectly with everyday fall dishes such as marinated meats and rich sauces. While you're out buying the ingredients at the grocery store, you won't miss the bottle - it's one of the most easily recognizable Washington wine labels on the shelf.

The third city of the Tri-cities: Washington wine pioneer Preston Premium Wines planted their vineyards in 1972 and set up shop in 1976 (literally, they have a great gift shop) in the town of Pasco. Here, you’ll find bottles of their Merlot and other great reds, along with wine accessories, home decor, artisan beaded jewelry, cookbooks, and more.

Potatoes to grapes: Down the road, Gordon Brothers Family Vineyards chooses fruit for their wines exclusively from their own vineyards. The 2006 Merlot has a rich, well-balanced mouth-feel, and a wonderful smooth finish - a great wine to pair with your favorite grilled meats and potatoes. After all, Jeff Gordon, wife Vicki, and brother Bob began farming here in 1977 - with potatoes. Call ahead for an appointment.

Columbia Valley Merlot in Walla Walla? You bet. Winemakers across Washington make great Merlot with grapes from Columbia Valley. At Woodward Canyon, winemaker Rick Small is dedicated to producing great Merlots. Going for quality over quantity, this winery has remained small, even while adding it's second label, Nelms Road. First, try any vintage of the Woodward Canyon Merlot; these are some of the very best Merlots that Washington has to offer. Then taste the Nelms Road - a smooth, lush accompaniment to any weeknight dinner.

A Merlot from on high: Long Shadows Vintners is a group of ultra-premium Washington wineries headed up by some of the most acclaimed winemakers in the world. The Pedestal Merlot, made by Pomerol Vintner Michel Rolland of Bordeaux, has won high marks for every vintage (to put it lightly), and the 2005 is, amazingly enough, still available. Long Shadows does not have a retail tasting room, but the Walla Walla winery will be open November 7th and 8th, a rare opportunity for a tour and tasting of new releases, library selections, and limited bottlings.

The French influence: French native Marie-Eve Gilla, who founded Forgeron Cellars in 2001, once told Paul Gregutt that "There is a lot of sunshine here; you can make sturdy wines with a lot of character. It's a lot more consistent than France. We like the French wines because they are elegant and balanced and meant to age. So we're trying to create an elegant wine that showcases the American fruit but is subtle enough and balanced enough to age" (Washington Wines and Wineries: The Essential Guide by Paul Gregutt). The 2003 Merlot is a great one for cellaring.

This is just the beginning: As you taste and tour throughout the vineyard region, you'll find even more ideas for your own Merlot-inspired meanderings.

Follow the wine and see where it takes you!

Click here for The Red Route Series: Part 1
 A Bordeaux Blend Road Trip through Yakima Valley

PLUS - Watch for The Red Route Series: Part 3
A Syrah Road Trip through Walla Walla