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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Phantom Creek Estates Phantom Creek Vineyard Co-Fermented Malbec Merlottext
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Phantom Creek Estates Phantom Creek Vineyard Co-Fermented Malbec Merlot 2018

Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPhantom Creek Vineyard, located on the lower terrace of the Black Sage Bench, turned 25 years old this year. It was planted by pioneering viticulturist Richard Cleave in 1996 on the edge of the Black Sage Bench, just above the warm valley floor. The tiny, seven-acre parcel is planted primarily to cabernet sauvignon, an unthinkable variety to ripen in BC back in the day. In the case of this wine, the blend is 60/40 merlot/malbec that boasts a rich 14.5%. It spent 21 months in French oak, the same barrels it was fermented in. The attack is youthful with some unknit tannins and savoury red fruit. The palate follows down the same road with freshness and some green highlights. This needs time to come together to settle. At the moment, it’s a bit raggedy for prime time.Tasted: 09 September 2021Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:
BC$90.00750mlGrand Cru Club Membership
Producer: Phantom Creek EstatesDistributors: Stile Brands
Blend: Malbec - MerlotCSPC: 90059UPC: 626990457367