This blend of 50% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon is an impressive and seamless red which exudes dark cherry, cassis, raspberry, plum, chocolate, herbs and hints of graphite. Full-bodied, ripe and long-lasting, it is ready to drink now but can easily handle another 6 years of cellaring.
Of all the ’14 Rare Vintage reds, this is my favourite. Ripe, the style leans more to the Rhône model with a bouquet of cassis, violets, black pepper, oregano and hickory. Excellent density and aftertaste with enough structure to take it until 2022.
A blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot, 6% Malbec, 3% Petit Verdot. Deep ruby colour; earthy, spicy, black-raspberry nose with cedary-floral notes; medium-bodied, elegant, beautifully balanced with resolved tannins and a rich flavour of blueberry pie.
Medium garnet in the glass, this more Burgundian-styled Pinot yields vibrant damson, cherry and earthy notes on top before a light-to-medium-bodied palate with mouthwatering entry of red fruit, strawberries, spice and herbal notes. Moderate acidity, a touch of spice and elegant, hint of savoury in the finish.
From the limestone and granite soils of Trout Lake Canyon in Summerland. Gooseberry, sage and herbal notes on top with a palate defined by bright acidity, mineral and complex layers with tropical and orchard fruits before a pith and zesty end.
Predominant Merlot (65%) with Cabernet Franc (20%) and Cab Sauv yields aromas of red berries and some toasty notes before and supple palate of mulberry and dark cherry with well-integrated tannins through the close.
Gray Monk assistant winemaker Roger Wong makes his own wines at ever-maturing Intrigue, nearby. Apples and peaches on the nose followed by a juicy apple and citrus-toned palate defined by juicy acidity.