H3 Horse Heaven Hills Merlot

Dark-fruited, round, and powerful: a dry red wine that shows significant body at 14.5% vol. Aging in wood gives it structure and a soft texture without masking the fruit. The fact that Malbec is in the blend alongside the Merlot fits the profile: Malbec generally brings color depth and dark fruit.

Compared to many lean, cool-climate Merlots from Europe, this wine from Washington State appears more lush and warmer. It does not seek freshness, but rather fullness. If you are looking for a Merlot as a wine for the main course, this is the right choice.

It goes well with game and lamb because the body and wood aging stand up to the strong inherent flavor of the meat. The same applies to beef and braised dishes: the long cooking time brings depth, which a full-bodied red wine absorbs without one partner overpowering the other.

With mushrooms and risotto, the earthy spice of the mushrooms meets the dark fruit of the wine. A creamy risotto softens the power and makes the wine a smooth counterpart. For cheese, it is best to choose ripe, savory varieties, as they need a wine with substance.

The occasion is more the set table than a spontaneous aperitif: a Sunday roast, a game dish in autumn, or a long evening with cheese. It shows best at 16 to 18 °C.

Three alternatives are available, depending on what you would like to change.

• H3 Horse Heaven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon: same producer and same region, but a single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon. The better choice if you want to try the Columbia Crest line with a different grape variety.
• Château Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley: also from Washington State, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Suitable if you want to get to know another producer from the same region.
• Salentein Barrel Selection Merlot: single-varietal Merlot from Mendoza in Argentina. The right choice if you are tempted by the comparison of the same grape variety from another country.