This wine is lighter almost garnet in color. On the nose the wine displays the varietal plum that indicates this may just be a good one! On the mid pallet this wine has lovely plum with a nice bit of complexity. On the finish the wine has some mild acidity and tartness on a medium finish. The tannins are silky smooth and best noticed without food and a bit of breathing. This is not a fruit forward merlot and not as boisterous as some but quite good and varietal. And we know how few and far between those are. I would give it an 89. I wouldn’t be keeping this one too long. I doubt it will last very long and fruit will fade quickly.
From the LCBO web site:
RODNEY STRONG MERLOT 2008 VINTAGES 497933 | 750 mL bottle Price: $ 19.95
Wine, Red Wine 13.8% Alcohol/Vol.
Sugar Content : XD
Made in: California, USA By: Rodney Strong Vineyards
Release Date: Mar 31, 2012
Tasting Note
Well-made Merlot that proves again that Miles, the character from Sideways was wrong. This is terrific. Aromas of strawberry, plum, sour cherry, bacon fat, cinnamon and new leather dominate. Dry with very good fruit nicely overlaid with moderate, tarry tannins. Could cellar 2-3 years, or enjoy it tonight with everything from slow-cooked beef in a red wine sauce, to gourmet hamburgers. (VINTAGES panel, Feb. 2012)
