Availability: Sold out at the winery, though, VQA and private wine shops have it in stock
Cost: $54-60
Alcohol: 14%
Date Tasted: January 31st, 2015
Tasting Notes: Nota Bene has been a Cabernet Sauvignon-leading blend for the past 11 vintages, but, for 2012, the winery has switched back to a Merlot-driven Meritage blend, similar to the inaugural release of 1999. The latest edition sees a whopping 57% Merlot mixed with 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Cabernet Franc and despite the changes, the 2012 offers good typicity for the iconic brand suggesting the vineyard site is the most dominant influence over the finished wine and not the finite percentages of the main components.
Whether its Cab-Merlot or Merlot-Cab, you'll get your fix of dark fruit supported by a medley of savoury characters; wild sage, tobacco and dry herbs. There are also hints of licorice, mocha and plum adding complexity. Fine tannins and French oak flavouring help structure the palate where a kick of wild berry acidity keeps the finish mouth-watering. Spice lingers through to the next sip.
This is a wine more for the future than the present. It takes hours to open up today, though, with careful cellaring, in another 2 years this won't be a problem at all. Drink 2017-2022.
- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2015 IconWines.ca
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