I’m not sure whether to praise or deride the practice of the dried grape that seems to have swept thru Ontario, especially in a vintage like 2012 … then I taste one like this and I put my druthers aside (for the moment). “Desicatto” is Latin for dried (not surprising that a College should evoke a dead language) – but this is far from a dead practice here in Ontario. Nose of smoky and leather notes which give way to dried fig and sweet cherry fruit and a touch of chocolate. Palate is silky yet spicy with plum, dark chocolate, black cherry and that aforementioned spiciness on the finish. Rich, delightful and alcohol filled at 14.5% … but what really makes this wine so appealing is that spicy character that helps elevate the rich fruit, keeping it honest. Only 40 cases made. So truly a special occasion wine. Price: $48.00 – Rating: **** ½