Old World vs New World: Merlot & Cab Sauv on Blueback Drive (Vancouver Island): Part of a Merlot-dominant blends blind tasting of old world vs new world. a mix of barely ripe red fruit and bell pepper on the nose. The sage-y herbaceous bouquet was a dead giveaway for South Okanagan. On the palate the wine was more challenging. Acidic, spice, integrated tannins. A tad green for some, medium-plus finish. Second favourite of four Merlots (3/12 tasters).
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Dark fruits - a touch of green bell pepper on the nose. Summerland Sweets cherry syrup. Not what I was expected for a merlot heavy blend, in a good way.
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A subtle, straightforward, & hugely appealing red - without the overbearing demeanor of ‘Bordeaux’.
Lovely with simply cooked meat & 3-hr decant.
I found the Merlot brought a wonderful balance to the Cab Sauv. At 1st sip it may fool you in its simplicity - but the fruit, oak & mocha shine through…gently.
By the end it leaves you a little taken aback.
They call this a 2nd tier wine – but I am not so certain. It is young - can't wait to see this in 5 years when it hits its stride.
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1/26/2024 - Canoehead wrote:
Old World vs New World: Merlot & Cab Sauv on Blueback Drive (Vancouver Island): Part of a Merlot-dominant blends blind tasting of old world vs new world. a mix of barely ripe red fruit and bell pepper on the nose. The sage-y herbaceous bouquet was a dead giveaway for South Okanagan. On the palate the wine was more challenging. Acidic, spice, integrated tannins. A tad green for some, medium-plus finish. Second favourite of four Merlots (3/12 tasters).
2 people found this helpful, do you? Yes - No / Comment
10/29/2023 - Vino Loco Likes this wine: 90 Points
86 M, 14 CF 14.3%
Dark fruits - a touch of green bell pepper on the nose. Summerland Sweets cherry syrup. Not what I was expected for a merlot heavy blend, in a good way.
2 people found this helpful, do you? Yes - No / Comment
9/4/2021 - KillerJones Likes this wine: 92 Points
A subtle, straightforward, & hugely appealing red - without the overbearing demeanor of ‘Bordeaux’.
Lovely with simply cooked meat & 3-hr decant.
I found the Merlot brought a wonderful balance to the Cab Sauv. At 1st sip it may fool you in its simplicity - but the fruit, oak & mocha shine through…gently.
By the end it leaves you a little taken aback.
They call this a 2nd tier wine – but I am not so certain. It is young - can't wait to see this in 5 years when it hits its stride.
1 person found this helpful, do you? Yes - No / Comment