2019 Southbrook “Small Lot - Estate” Merlot | 92pts - Exclusive Library Release

Ontario, Niagara, VQA Four Mile Creek
100% Merlot | Dry  |13.5% ABV
92pts Carl’s Wine Club

This 100% Estate small lot Merlot is grown in the organic and biodynamic Southbrook Vineyard on the Four Mile Creek Sub Appellation. Made by the all-star winemaker Ann Sperling, the 2019 vintage was wild fermented in French oak and aged for 22 months (including 25% new oak) before bottling. This is probably my favorite NOTL Merlot from the 2019 vintage that I have tasted this year. On the nose, this wine exudes notes of cassis, black cherry, black currant, dark chocolate, dry thyme and a hint of pipe tobacco. The palate is pure and flawless, with a perfect mix of power and elegance, delivering flavours of dark plum, cassis, dark cherry, licorice, vanilla and sweet tobacco leaves. The tannins are softening up at the moment and this wine is getting more approachable. I suggest decanting and enjoying this wine in the next 3 years for maximum enjoyment. 225 cases made. (Carl Boucher, October 11, 2024). 

Food pairing: rosemary mint lamb chop, Moroccan beef stew
Drink now until 2029