Today’s #WineWednesday pick is a great one from the Great One: Wayne Gretzky Estates Cabernet Merlot 2013 VQA. Blends like this, inspired by the Bordeaux region of France, demonstrate the idea of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts.
Weather in Bordeaux can be hit or miss, just like in the Niagara growing region. Because of this, winemakers figured out that mixing different grape varieties together could yield a decent bottle of wine in lesser years, and an outstanding bottle of wine in better years.
The 2013 growing season in Ontario started cool and wet, but finished with warmth and sunshine. For reds like the Wayne Gretzky Cabernet Merlot, that means a medium-bodied wine, with moderate tannins. On the nose there are aromas of red currant, blackberry, earth, black pepper, and fresh cherry. The palate shows red plum, red currant, blueberry, earth, black pepper, and a hint of tobacco. It’s really tasty.
Enjoy this alongside penne with sausage and a red sauce; grilled steak and mashed potatoes; ratatouille; and cheese fondue.
Happy sipping.
