Merlot should be this generous of fruit and supple of tannin all the time – many Ontario Merlots seem aggressive when first bottled and released, this version has a gentle fruitiness with blue and red fruit and a cherry-raspberry middle. Smooth and silky across the tongue with delicate tannins that don’t interfere with that pleasant easy-drinking-ness … plus there’s even a touch of smokiness on the finish. And how did they achieve such a wonderful balance: 12 months in 20% new oak, so as not to over-whelm the fruit. Price: $24.95 – Rating: *** ½+