Osoyoos Larose ‘Le Grand Vin’ 2006
VQA Okanagan Valley $45.00 (626325) 13.5% alcohol
This Merlot-predominant red blend will emerge like a chrysalis from its tannic shell in two or three years—tuck away a couple and enjoy the metamorphosis. Savory herbs, floral notes and dark berry fruit on the nose, it coats the palate and stains the teeth with dense and delectable racy cherry, black plum and mocha flavour. It’s medium-full bodied with a generous mouth feel and a firm tannin underpinning. (Vic Harradine)