Charles Smith Wines The Velvet Devil Merlot

Born from the rugged, sun-drenched landscapes of Washington State, The Velvet Devil is a testament to Charles Smith’s rebellious spirit and his mission to restore the reputation of a classic varietal. Sourced from diverse high-altitude vineyards across the Columbia Valley, this wine thrives in a terroir defined by dramatic diurnal shifts and intense northern sunlight, which concentrate the fruit while preserving its natural vitality. Smith, a self-taught visionary with a background in the rock world, defies traditionalist constraints to craft a Merlot that is unapologetically bold and expressive of its Pacific Northwest roots.

The experience begins with a sultry bouquet of black cherry, cassis, and cedar, nuanced by notes of pipe tobacco and forest floor. Upon the first sip, the palate is met with a deep, concentrated richness where dark bramble fruits intermingle with subtle hints of cocoa and anise. The wine’s defining character is its namesake texture—a pure velvet mouthfeel where plush tannins provide a seamless, supple structure without sacrifice to focus. A vibrant undercurrent of acidity provides necessary tension, carrying the dark fruit through to a long, polished finish layered with savory spice and refined earthiness.