With my usual preconceptions in mind I grabbed this Merlot. I am always on a quest to find that perfect Merlot that fits into my prefabbed mould. The color on this wine is reasonably dark. On the bouquet … there it is Merlot. Hmmm I’m getting excited! On the mid pallet Merlot, plums … on the finish there are definitely some Merlot flavors but they are really over powered by the 14.5% alcohol. After some breathing the alcohol dominance was dieing down, but sadly so was the distinctive Merlot flavors. This wine MIGHT be better in a year or so when the alcohol becomes more integrated but I’m not so sure. I would give this an 88-89. On day two of this being opened the yummy Merlot flavors are there and some of the alcohol is passing so that bodes well. Seems some more bottle aging is in order. Try again in a year or so … I think I will go back and grab some more.
From the LCBO web site:
BALLAST STONE MERLOT 2006 Currency Creek South Australia Ballast Stone is not a name chosen lightly. In the 1800s ships used ballast stones to keep them seaworthy. When they arrived in Australia the stones were off-loaded to make room for goods such as grain and wool. The Ballast Stone winery buildings were constructed with the stones left behind. Filled with plum blueberry and cherry aromas this dry flavourful full-bodied and ripe wine is an excellent choice for your cottage barbecue. 127555 $16.95
Featured 8/29/2009
