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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Painted Rock Merlottext
92POINTS
17/20

Painted Rock Merlot 2018

Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFour estate vineyard blocks went into 2018, each harvested individually and handled in small batches. The fruit is cold soaked for four days and fermented for an additional 21 days on the skins with twice daily pump-overs. After 18 months in 30% new French oak, the final blend is bottled unfiltered. This wine has always been a bit hedonistic, even given its Bordeaux tilt, but it has another level of elegance that belies the variety. In this case, the secret sauce might be the Okanagan and its combination of freshness and savoury notes. Many will love the rich, showy notes and, frankly, the alcohol, but others will focus on its charm and mouth appeal. Drink or hold, it will serve you well in either case.Tasted: 10 September 2021Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:
BC$34.99750mlBCLS, private liquor stores, winery direct
Producer: Painted Rock Estate WineryDistributors: Winery Direct
Grape: MerlotCSPC: 512319UPC: 00626990105848