Mr. Senchuk's patience paid off. Aged more than 2 years in a combination of new and older French and Hungarian oak, this is a dark ruby coloured concentrated and full Merlot. Initial barnyard notes followed by fruit and more fruit (red berry, cherry, plum), and a medicinal hint. The palate picks a peck of pepper along with vanilla and nutmeg in a medium to full mouthfeel. Goldilocks tannins are just right, not too sticky, but enough to provide balanced structure offsetting the fruit. Excellent length with a touch of graphite on the finish. March 2014.
This was a very interesting wine. Deep ruby-purple hues hint at the complexity. Plums, black cherry, and hints of vanilla and mint greet the nose. This is a monster Merlot that is not for the faint of heart - big fruit, solid structure, and hearty tannins will carry this beauty for a long aging period if you so desire. The finish is tart Damascus plum, and slightly chalky (but not grippy) tannins. A keeper! Tasted December 2013