In Ontario it pays to know your vintage dates - the same can also be said for France and many other old world wine countries. 2006 was a so-so vintage, nothing special and few wines that come out of it will be awe-inspiring ... the good news is that they will be well made and accessible right away - which is good because 2006 was sandwiched between two excellent vintages: 2005 and 2007. This Merlot is smoky and toasty on the nose with dried blackberries and a subtle whiff of white pepper. The palate is smooth with unripened cherries, cedar and pencil lead ... it's a perfect wine to drink now while you wait for the '05s and '07s to mature. Price: $19.75 - Rating: ***½