Ghost Pines Winemaker's Blend Merlot 2012

Mocha, dark chocolate and espresso on the nose from the enticing oak aging on this Californian red wine. Full-bodied and smooth with lots of layers of fleshy black plums. Try it tonight with grilled pork chops. The Merlot grapes are gently delivered whole-berry to the fermenter, avoiding bitterness while bringing out fresh fruit flavours. Pair with: grilled meats and poultry, hearty tomato-based pastas, pork chops. Drink: 2013-2018. Score - 91. (Natalie MacLean, nataliemaclean.com, Sept. 2014)