Vintage Report
Spring was cooler and later than usual which delayed budburst, but with an overall fruit set that was quite good. A long run of dry, warm weather followed in the summer helping accelerate ripening. Ideal grape growing conditions continued into fall through all of September, which saw record warm temperatures and enabled a long hang-time on the vines. Harvest began on September 16 and finished November 3, with the Icewine picked just over a month later in early December. The warm autumn temperatures gave us whites with big, ripe tropical flavours and reds that show juicy tannin development.
Tasting Notes
Our 2009 Merlot Cabernet is full of red berry fruit, cocoa, cedar and tobacco. The ripe, fruity palate offers further complexity in the form of coffee, oak spice and mint.
Food Pairing Notes
Excellent when paired with roasted meats and some Asian dishes. Try pairing this Merlot Cabernet with roasted chicken, pan-grilled halibut, spicy pad-thai as well as a variety of aged cheeses.
Winemaker’s Notes
| 53% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot | |
| 13.5% Alc. | Dry | T.A. 5.7 g/l | 750 mL | |
| Oaked: | Aged in American and French oak for 11 months |
| Harvest: | October 2009 |
| Vineyards: | Oliver & Osoyoos |
