Sterling Vineyards 2016 Vintner's Collection Merlot - 85pts

Sterling Vineyards 2016 Vintner's Collection Merlot - California State

Availability: Direct from winery here and BCLDB stores
Cost: $19.99 + taxes
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: June 12th, 2019

Tasting Notes: A juicy, ripe Merlot with blackberry, black plum and sweet cassis aromas and flavours with nothing really out-of-sorts, yet, disappointingly structured rather Apothic-y with too much RS and too little depth and length. There are better budget Merlots out there. Drink now-2020.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Sterling Vineyards 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon - 90pts

Sterling Vineyards 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) California - USA

Availability: QFC. BCLDB stores and private wine shops
Cost: $25-45
Alcohol: 14.2%
Date Tasted: June 18th, 2011

Tasting Notes: The Sterling Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Savignon takes a more subdued approach to the blockbuster 2007 vintage with this regional blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Gros Verdot and 1% Petit Verdot. The nose is more subtle than other its peers with medium intense aromas of cassis, blackberry, plum and licorice supported by a steady foundation of French and American oak.

The palate lacks the concentration of a typical Napa Cab, yet works, delivering its dark chocolate, licorice, cassis and oak flavours in a more masculine, cool and straightforward way. The watery texture finishes long with a touch of lingering bitterness. All-in-all a very good wine, but not one for those looking for a massive, powerhouse of a Cab and certainly not for one paying import prices in Canada. Drink 2011-2015.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2011 IconWines.ca