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90POINTS
16½/20
Painted Rock Merlot 2016
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada2016 offered some respite from the oppressive 2015 heat, even if it started early and hot. June was cooler than usual before the warm weather returned for the wrap up of the growing season, delivering fully ripe fruit. Three estate blocks of merlot were picked in the second week of October and spent 25 days on the skins, including a 4-day cold soak and twice daily pumpovers. It was aged 18 months in 30% new French oak and blended before being bottled unfiltered. At 15.1%, it takes no prisoners. The palate is rich and laden with dark super spicy fruit, suggesting this wine will need some time in bottle. The style is more Washington with a splash of California this year, which will have broad appeal to those who love their merlot big and showy. I would wait for five years before you approach this wine to give it a chance to gather itself and become whole.Tasted: 14 June 2020Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml | BCLS, private liquor stores, winery direct |
Grape: MerlotCSPC: 512319UPC: 00626990105848
