Earth, Wind and Vines: Eastern Washington may be remote, windswept and arid, but it's also one of the best places on earth to grow grapes. Our family has worked this land for nearly six decades. Today, we farm 13 vineyards in the Columbia Valley using sustainable methods tailored to our unique terroir. Additionally we recycle water, grape pomace, paper and wood products. We plant native cover crops to encourage beneficial wildlife and we farm each block independently to guarantee the character and authenticity of our wines. -Brothers Butch and Jerry Milbrandt. Traditions: 2007 Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington. When grown in the proper places, Merlot produces some of the world's greatest wines. Eastern Washington just happens to be a proper place. Our Traditions Merlot is deep and lush with cassis, blueberries, toast and vanilla. 13.9% alcohol by volume.