“The Velvet Devil drinks like wearing a warm crushed red velvet robe on a cold winter’s night, sipping cognac by the fire while smoking a favorite cigar.”

2015 Charles Smith Wines ‘The Velvet Devil’ Merlot Washington State USA

This wine is crafted of 84% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% other varieties from the Washington State Appellation.

It poured a deep ruby robe with purple hues; medium+ aromas of cooked fruit aromas of blackberries, red currant, plums, and blueberries are joined by baking spice, dried red flowers and savory herbs, worn leather cigar box with ash residue, and trailing roasted walnuts. On the palate is where the “velvet” shines. It enters with a crushed velvet mouth-feel, full-body and full of flavors mimicking the nose. This wine is opulent and robust, while at the same time exuding tension in its restraint of alcohol and oak (both present but not over-powering). It has medium+ integrated tannins matched with medium+ acidity. This is a well-structured wine with a long trailing tart fruit finish.

The Velvet Devil Merlot is easy to enjoy with or without food for the modern palate. It packs a bounty of flavors into each sip. Ideally, enjoy it with a juicy burger, BBQ, pulled pork, pizza or steak. It is perfect for International Merlot Day enjoyment, quiet weeknights, or parties. This is a crowd pleasing wine with a value price tag.

SRP $12.99; widely distributed

Crafted with partially native yeast. 10 months in 30% new French oak barrels on lees.

*Sample; all thoughts and opinions are my own.