• The following 2019 Henry of Pelham Cabernet-Merlot is a smooth and mellow blend of cabernet franc/merlot/cabernet sauvignon.
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Henry of Pelham Cabernet-Merlot 2019
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (594241) 12.8% alcohol
Heady aromas leap from the glass—mixed cherry/berry fruit and charred campfire—supported by wisps of exotic spice. This medium-bodied gem envelops the palate with smooth, mellow flavours of black currant, dark cherry and oodles of balanced tang and pizzazz delivered as piquant savory spice and gorgeous acidity, not the least intrusive and balanced through the delectable finish. The price-quality ratio skews in your favour. Give this a go with burgers, gourmet sausage or meat-laden pizza. (Vic Harradine)
• The following fruit-filled 2019 Henry of Pelham Baco Noir was sourced from 100% Baco Noir from estate vines then matured six to eight months with American oak, 24% new.
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Henry of Pelham Baco Noir 2019
VQA Ontario $15.95 (270926) 13.0% alcohol
Exotic spice, tarry notes and black fruit—plum, cherry and currant—aromas leap from the glass. It envelops the palate with a wide swath of flavours—kirsch liqueur, blueberry and passion fruit—robed in spice and grilled herbs. It’s medium-plus bodied with creamy smooth mouthfeel and a lingering finish of palate replays, balanced and beautiful. Pour with grilled pork back ribs mopped with spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)
• The following fresh and lively Just Merlot 2019 was sourced from 100% merlot in the warm, sunny south of France and was fermented and settled in stainless steel tank; it’s not been touched by oak.
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Just Merlot 2019
IGP Pays d’Oc, France $11.95 (17528) 13.5% alcohol
Fresh and lively aromas of cherry and dried currants mingle on the nose. It dazzles the palate with a tsunami-like surge of flavour with black plum, cassis and sweet juicy black cherry to the fore, adorned with good tang and an underpinning of ripe tannin. It punches over the price from twist top to last drop. Delightful with the grilled meats or gourmet sausage you grill on your barbecue. What’s not to like. (Vic Harradine)