Merlot 2018 - Sue-Ann Staff Mountain Bell

The "Staff Mountain Bell" is one of only 500 - a very rare cold weather bell made in Birmingham England in 1869. Of the 500, 450 went to Russia and 50 were destined for Canada. This unique find has been in the family for decades and its base note, "D", alludes to the smooth, muscular notes of this wine.

Velvety, medium-bodied Merlot, showing cassis, plum and cherry notes on the nose and palate. Fermented in stainless steel and aged in oak for 20 month, this wine's smooth tannins, dry fruit notes and subtle acidity make it an ideal pairing with pan-seared duck or duck rillette, rabbit terrine or other game meat dishes, hard cheeses or a bar of good quality medium dark chocolate.

Appearance: Deep ruby in colour.

Nose: Lightly cedary, spicy, blueberry bouquet with vanilla notes.

Palate: Medium-bodied, dry, floral, blueberry and black currant flavours with well-integrated oak and velvety tannins on the finish. A balanced, harmonious wine.

Quality: Outstanding. Drink now through 2023.

Critic Rating: 90 points – Tony Aspler

Price: $39.95

Vintage: 2018 Alcohol: 12.5%

Sugar: 2 g/L