3 | Wine | Washington, $10 to $20, Unrated

"Notes of white peach, Linden leaves and slate. Lovely focused acidity, finishing very long with mandarin orange and lots of minerality. Grab the chop sticks, crack a bottle....this will make you happy." - Charles Smith

"Cold Creek Chardonnay is typified by concentration and intensity from the 40-year-old vines and warmth of the site. This Chardonnay is a decadent style with ripe fruit and a toasty character. The cooler 2011 vintage in Washington provided enhanced acidity with an elegant finish. The combination of a powerful vineyard in a cooler vintage makes for a very balanced and ageable style of Chardonnay."

"We craft this wine to be our complex yet approachable Merlot. The wine offers aromas of black cherry, leather and spice with layers of rich dark red fruit flavors and a long, smooth, sweet finish. A touch of Syrah adds a jammy fruit character. I think of this wine as a great any day red."

"Smooth and rich with classic Cabernet Sauvignon aromas of ripe plum, blackberry and subtle notes of mint. Layered dark cherry and mocha flavors, paired with gentle tannins and a full, luscious finish, make our Cabernet Sauvginon an impeccable pairing with roasted meats, cassoulet or barbecue."

"Classic Merlot aromas of dark cherries, cedar, pipe tobacco. Anise, stone and cherry blossoms. Yeah, believe it! Super smooth....a true Velvet Devil."

"Soft, smooth cabernet for a modest price. Ripe, rich and very accessible, with plum, black fruits and hints of chocolate. The flavors linger on a smooth, nearly sweet, velvety vanilla finish. A definite crowd pleaser." - Barb Steadman, Binny's Des Plaines