Leaning Post Cuvée Winona 2020

This is a blend of 61% Merlot and 39% Cabernet Franc all sourced from Niagara-on-the-Lake that spent 18 months in French oak (mostly used barrels). Interestingly, the Cab Franc portion was fermented in concrete with the rest fermented in stainless steel. It has a big, heady nose of dense black cherries, blackberries, black currants, rich barrel spice notes and subtle earthy/savoury accents. It’s bold and sassy on the palate with tannic grip and a firm structure with a range of dark berries, wild raspberries, licorice, eucalypt, fine oak spices, toasted vanilla bean, and a lifted, long finish. An impressive, bold red offering that can cellar 5+ years. Score – 91. (Rick VanSickle, winesinniagara.com, Dec. 1, 2022)