By all accounts 2008 was not a great year for red here in Ontario, but some varieties did fare better than others. Calamus has produced something that`s very special from a tough vintage, their inaugural single varietal Merlot, (hard to believe they`ve never done one before). A 75 case production, limited edition wine that was aged a full 30 months in French oak, of which one third was new (only three of the four barrels made the cut). The nose is big on cherry with a ready to drink smoothness on the palate that`s loaded with cherry flavour - this is the kind of Merlot you think of when you hear the word `Merlot` - which means Miles (of Sideways fame) would hate it, but it is one you can easily fall in love with. Good acidity, food friendly with a nice linger of red and black cherry on the finish. For kicks I aerated some and found that it got smoother and silkier, the fruit sweeter and a pleasing hint of vanilla came through. Not for long term ageing but when a wine is drinking this well you`ll want to consume it by the bottle. Drink 1-3 years. Price: $25.00 - Rating: **** 1/2