I last tasted the Cab Sauv as well as the Sauv Blanc from Cannonball so I was anxious to try the Merlot from them that was on the most recent release. I like the label it’s cute. As usual personal bias up front, I like my Merlot’s fruity, smooth and what I consider varietal. Dark in color with a nose of rich red berries. On the mid pallet the wine matches the nose with lovely rich red berries coming through. Far more reminiscent to their cab IMHO than what I expect from a Merlot. On the medium length finish the wine displays some firm tannins along with some acidity. This is a lovely wine, albeit in my mind more cab than Merlot. With that aside I would give it a solid 89. It should have some good life in it too. I would be surprised for it to continue to show well/improve over the next 2-5 years. Yumm. Especially given the price!
from the LCBO web site:
CANNONBALL MERLOT 2011 VINTAGES 342824 | 750 mL bottle Price $ 21.95
Made in: California, USA By: Cannonball Wine And Spirits, Llc. Release Date: Dec 7, 2013
13.7% Alcohol/Vol. Style: Full-bodied & Smooth Sugar Content: 6 g/L Sweetness Descriptor: D – Dry
Tasting Note
This sure-fire hit is bursting with aromas and flavours of dark berries, chocolate-covered cherry and roasted herbs. Round and generous in the mouth, it’s a tasty reminder of Merlot’s fun-loving side. Fire up the autumn barbecue for this one and it’ll be all hands on deck. (VINTAGES panel, Feb. 2013)
