Not sure what’s going on with Merlot in 2010 but this one joins a growing list of exciting and delicious versions that have come out of that vintage from around the Niagara area … It’s as if Merlot said, “this is my year to shine.” At first the nose seems almost non-existent, then it slowly reveals itself to have smoky, toasty, blueberry skin and cherry … The palate has some pretty wicked tannins, but amongst them is vanilla, blueberry, cherry and a really juicy core. This wine needs about two years to settle, which should help to bring out that juicy core even more. Price: $25.00 – Rating: **** ½