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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Van Westen Vineyards Vivre la Vie Merlottext
90POINTS
16½/20

Van Westen Vineyards Vivre la Vie Merlot 2019

Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVivre la Vie tells the story of the Naramata Bench, which many people who think they know Okanagan red wine have yet to learn. The mid-valley bench has a cool, lean side to it that can be transformative for the right grape varieties, namely syrah, cabernet franc, and merlot. Traditionally, Vivre la Vie opens with refined fruit purity, and it is present in 2019. The style is always lean (Bordeuax-like) rather than lush (Napa). It's pleasantly aromatic and spicy with dark plums, cloves, dried blueberries, Bing cherries, and cloves. A wine that allows you to contemplate and enjoy a bit of complexity seldom encountered in BC merlot.Tasted: 07 November 2023Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:
BC$40.00750mlwinery online/direct, select private retailers
Producer: Van Westen VineyardsDistributors: Winery Direct
Grape: MerlotCSPC: 152868UPC: 626990097266