This is a full bodied merlot from what the Hillebrand rep called "The best vintage in Niagara… ever." It held up well to a Ribeye steak and could be a great food wine or even a sipper. Great value here at $14.95.
Lean red fruit, with notes smoke and typical Niagara herbeceousness in lower priced reds. A bit thin and short finishing. Of course, I can only judge the bottle I tasted (bottle variation??), but this ain't no $30 St. Emilion. I had to double check the label to be sure that I had tried the 2010. Reminds me of why I don;t buy $15 Niagara reds. Drink now if you must. Tasted Oct 2012.