2020 Niagara College “Balance” Merlot Cab | 91+pts

ON, VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc | Dry | 13.5% ABV
91+pts | Carl's Wine Club

Tasted blind during a live show, I rated this wine 91+pts before even knowing its incredible price. The outstanding 2020 vintage plays a huge role, but the vineyard source also demonstrates the exceptional quality of NOTL terroir.

On the nose, dark fruits like blackcurrant, dark cherry, and wild raspberry jam meet layers of graphite, cedar, and tobacco. I suspect a generous amount of Cabernet Sauvignon in this blend.

The palate is nervy, tight, and full of energy, with flavours of black cherry, blackcurrant, sweet tobacco, and mocha. A savoury, toasty finish rounds out this surprising value wine. Case-buy recommended!

– Carl Boucher, Nov 30, 2024

Food pairings:

Juicy bacon cheeseburger, slow-roasted leg of lamb

Drink now until 2028
Winery Price: $20.33 + tax/dep