One of the most prestigious events for Washington Wines was held the second weekend of June 2009 in Yakima. The Washington Wine Competition has around 300 entrants and gives a nice over-all view of some of the best wines out of Washington. At this years event our own local winery pulled out a double-gold medal for their 2006 Merlot. I was told that they went up against over sixty other Merlots tasted blind and came out at the top of the heap...Very impressive indeed! I had the opportunity to go to the Sunshine and Wine Festival held the following weekend at the Yakima Fairgrounds where they showcase all the medal winning wines. I of course tasted the San Juan Vineyards 2006 Merlot and was quite impressed. Made from fruit purchased from Kestrel Vineyards in the Yakima Valley appellation this merlot is well structured with solid yet silky tannins. An excellent nose of berries and lavender with a full mouth of fruit including blackberries, dark cherries and vanilla notes. The finish is smooth and lingers. This is a wine to drink now and over the next couple of years. The price is ridiculous considering the quality, at only $22.99 a bottle. I also had a chance to taste many of the other gold medal winners and like the merlot, they were all fantastic. For all you doubters out there it is time to realize that we have a serious winery and a seriously good winemaker here on our little island known as San Juan.