Little Engine Wines 2017 Gold Merlot - 93-94pts

Little Engine Wines 2017 Gold Merlot (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC 

Availability: See winery for details here
Cost: $55 + taxes
Alcohol: 14.8%
Date Tasted: July 2nd, 2019

Tasting Notes: Warning: an overuse of the word 'yet' follows (a fitting, yet, fatigued way to structure a sentence attempting to group contrasting, yet, related points). 

The Little Engine 'Gold Merlot' is an uber-elegant, yet, concentrated and perfectly ripe expression of the Bordeaux variety reminiscent of blending the styles of high-end Sonoma and Napa Valley Merlot. Full bodied, yet, effortless on the palate and approachable in its youth, yet, possessing the structure and 'bones' to age beautifully. Layers of delicate, sweet red fruit and savoury, baking notes grace the feminine nose and super refined, approachable palate. Enjoy now or hold for further development. Drink 2020-2025.

 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Carpineto 2013 Riserva - 93-94pts

Carpineto 2013 Riserva (Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano DOCG) Tuscany - Italy

Availability: Private wine stores
Cost: $45-50
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: March 2nd, 2019

Tasting Notes: This is the ultimate steak wine. Now, if you are not steak (or meat of any kind) inclined than you might consider imagining a beautifully grilled, olive-oil kissed, portobello mushroom as you proceed with this review;)

What is pepper to salt? What is charred carbon to grease? Perfect companions? Brothers in arms? If the battle is to win 'taste', than let me put forth my twin-headed champion: the Carpineto Riserva and a lean, mean, beef tenderloin machine. 

The silky-smooth, Sangiovese blend, Carpineto is well-suited to grilled foods of all kinds with a balanced and complex profile which perfectly marries its red fruit and floral characters with layers of spice, worn leather and prominent iron notes like it had once been used to quench a burning blade of steel. Already 6 years of age, yet, still years from peaking with further development very likely. Drink now-2023.
- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca