Mission Hill Reserve Merlot 2021

A 2021 vintage Okanagan merlot of considerable ripeness (14.5% alcohol declared) and black fruit flavours, smoke and abundant oak influence. Tannins are yet grainy and firm, and acids also prominent, indicating that another couple of years in the cellar will do positive things for the texture and flavour development. Substantial, concentrated wine all in all, fairly priced in the category. Tasted September 2023. [Received an average final score of 92 points from judges at the 2023 National Wine Awards of Canada.] Score – 90. (John Szabo, MS, winealign.com)