Columbia Crest is a hero of mine.. They show that it is possible to make reasonably good wine at the 200,000 case, $10 price point... So, I saw that WS gave the 2003 grand estates merlot 90 points, and I thought I'd give it a try. I wouldn't give it 90 points. It is not a bad wine, but lacks structure - a little flabby with good fruity nose, but a little thin on the palate and with a bitter almond note on the finish that kept us from drinking more than one glass. I don't know of any fault that would make this a one-off, so I won't go back for another try. (unless someone out there knows of some reason this might not be typical of the entire batch.)
On the other hand, the '01 two vines cab-merlot was a winner. The cabernet gave enough more fruit, weight, and structure to make it a thoroughly delightful wine. A great wine for everyday at $120 a case.