Tasting note

Aged in French and American oak for over 12 months, the Black Sage Vineyard Merlot displays intense black fruit, sage and tobacco flavours, bound by solid tannins and memorable structure. Bound by solid tannins and memorable structure

Outstanding nose on one of the newest award-winning Black Sage Vineyard releases - dominant blackcurrant and cherry. Great length with black fruits continuing to the last - this wine will continue to develop and improve in the next few years. Enjoy this luscious wine with fine beef cuisine. Excellent when accompanied by roasted beets shared with a tomato balsamic reduction. This wine would benefit from pairing with an aged goat's cheese or balderson cheddar.

Consistently this wine has shown well when looking at the 2011 reds that are out there now. Older vines and working with a tougher year have brought out the best here. Elegant and framed with fruit and impeccable balance, the wine is perfectly matched to site…and your glass. Try with grilled chops, roasted meats or steak frites.(December 2013 Insider Pick by Stephen Schiedel, Portfolio Manager for North and South America Wines)