O * S Winery Merlot Sonas 2013, Yakima Valley, Washington

Second-generation Seattle vintner Peggy Sullivan will look back fondly on this bottling as the first full year of working with acclaimed winemaker Scott Greer of Sheridan Vineyard, and the relationship continues to blossom. Greer made the pick from his Zillah, Wash., vineyard on Oct. 10 and managed the barrels for 21 months in 20 percent new French oak. The fruit-forward nose brings thoughts of ripe plum, black currant and ripe plum with molasses and sweet mint. On the pour, currant and plum flavors are joined by cherry, a combination framed by masterfully managed tannins that create great texture, capped by cranberry acidity that makes for a juicy and fruity finish.