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93POINTS
17¼/20
Mission Hill Family Estate Oculus 2017
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2017 Oculus is one of the biggest young versions of wine I have tasted, possibly rivalling 2009. Rich and full-bodied, it is going to need some time to settle into itself. The blend in 2017 is 49/26/25 merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, fermented and aged in French oak fermenters and barrels (25 percent new) respectively. 99 percent of the fruit is from designated Oculus blocks in the MHFE Osoyoos Vineyard. Winemaker Darryl Brooker has tinkered with the formula, dropping the new oak into the 25 percent range and upping the cabernet franc count to 25 percent, and both moves seem to suit the flagship. The palate is awash in rich, savoury black fruits and substantial tannins that, while texturally fine, will need time to dissipate and let the wine blossom. Can we say more California, less Europe this year? It will require a decade of watching before seeing the whole story.Tasted: 19 September 2020Tasted by: Prices:| BC | $135.00 | 750ml | winery direct |
Blend: Merlot - Cabernet Sauvignon - Cabernet FrancCSPC: 31289UPC: 776545981486
