There is no wonder what-so-ever in my mind why this wine placed so well during the OntarioWineReview Baco Challenge … For those who missed it, this Sandbanks Reserve finished 2nd amongst some very stiff competition in the reserve category. And while winemaker/owner Catherine Langlois sweated over the fact that she sent in a barrel sample, she had no reason to. I am happy to report that the finished product is even better than I remember, and here’s why. First there’s the presentation, the bottle sports a new gold foil label, which is quite impressive and gives the bottle an elegant look; but it’s what’s inside that’s even more impressive. The nose lacks the usual leather-tarry aromas most associated with young Baco, instead it gives way to black cherries, cinnamon, white pepper and truffles. The taste is also very appealing: sour cherry, a good mixture of spices and wonderful toasted oak notes (from the 12 months spent in American oak). This wine is surprisingly lush and would make for a great BBQ companion. I know this is Catherine’s first go round with a Reserve Baco, and many would consider this beginner’s luck, but if she keeps this up, she’ll definitely give the Henry of Pelham boys a run for their money in the Baco department.