2010 Featherstone Red-Tail Merlot – $19.95 – Vintages 131540 – This is a very interesting Merlot. It’s interesting because it’s not boring. To me most Merlot’s represent a compromise, if you’re going to a party and you’re not sure what to bring Merlot is a pretty safe bet because you don’t get anything too overpowering. That is not the case with this Merlot. You are hit with flavours of Cherry and Strawberry but almost like an electric shock there is something else… a strong presence of spice. The fruit profile is lighter than Cabernet Franc or Sauvignon but the spice makes this wine feel a little heavier than it is. Be warned this wine doesn’t soften very much with decanting. This would pair well with fare from the grill.
2010 Hinterbrook Riesling – $17.95 – Vintages 270512 – Don’t be surprised if you haven’t heard of the winery they are quite new. This is a Riesling that leans more towards tropical flavours as opposed to citrus. Flavours of Pineapple are really brought out with a nice balanced acidity and not too much sweetness. This wine is very food friendly… but I’ll be honest I didn’t pair this with anything. I didn’t need to.
