2020 Exclamation Merlot

2020 was a vintage for the ages (in more ways than one). The spring started off unseasonably warm and just got hotter as summer came. There was little rainfall and extended periods of perfect growing weather. In the fall the season was extended by warm weather right until the end of October. Look for some of the best wines Niagara has ever produced from this vintage.

The 2020 Exclamation Merlot is one of our proudest achievements from this exceptional vintage. Warmer than usual conditions allowed for excellent ripeness, resulting in a deep ruby colour and intense aromatic complexity. The nose is bursting with black cherry, blackberry compote, black plum, blueberry jam, licorice, dark chocolate, cedar, baking spice, and vanilla. Thanks to the quality of the 2020 vintage, this Merlot is full bodied and has more structure than average. Tannins are firm enough to reward extensive cellaring but are also soft enough for early consumption, especially after decanting. Alcohol levels are also higher than usual, but the wine remains very well balanced with ample acidity and a silky-smooth finish.

Food Pairing:
Blue cheese burger
Pork loin
Roasted vegetables
Portobello mushroom
Roast chicken
Dark chocolate

Technical Information:

Appellation: VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake

Blend: 100% Merlot

Oak Aging: 24 months French Oak

Alcohol: 14.9% ABV

Residual Sugar: 1.9g/L

Cellaring capacity: Now till 2030+