Sandhill Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2022

Introduction

Sandhill Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot is a red wine from Canada, produced in the British Columbia region and the Okanagan Valley appellation. Sandhill Wines, established in 1997, is a pioneer in producing premium VQA wines from both the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys. The winery's philosophy is to craft wines that are approachable in style, using classic varietals, and ensuring each bottle reflects the distinct character of the site where the grapes were grown.

Wine Description

The wine has a deep garnet colour. The aromatic profile features a lovely bouquet of blackcurrant and dark plum fruit, mingling with spice box, smoke, and oak. Other notes include black cherry and blue plum.

The varietal composition is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. One source indicates the blend is 15.00% Merlot, while another refers to the style as a Bordeaux Blend Red. It is a full bodied wine. The palate is full of flavours of black cherry, blackcurrant, oak, and spice. It has soft drying tannins and good structure. Stylistically, it is a bold and structured red blend, with fruit forward flavours. The wine was aged for 24 months in 30% French and 70% American oak barrels, with 10% new French oak used to add complexity. The finish is an extra-dry, lingering one, showing notes of black tea, cocoa powder, blackcurrant, blackberry, spicy oak, and smoke. The ABV is either 13.9% or 15.0%. The optimal drinking window is potentially through 2028. Information on the organic status of the wine is not available in the sources.

Food Pairing

This Full Bodied & Robust red wine is a great pairing for steaks, barbecue fare, and full-flavoured cheeses. Recommended pairings also include beef, lamb, and game.