CheckMate Artisanal Winery 2014 Opening Gambit Merlot

CheckMate Artisanal Winery 2014 Opening Gambit Merlot

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

$85

Coming from a vineyard nestled against the US border in Osoyoos, this is the most compelling and charming of the current crop of CheckMate Merlots. The fruit is hand-picked, sorted and treated to the utmost care and attention in the cellar. Produced with 100 percent natural fermentation, extended maceration and 21 months in oak, this 23-barrel production boasts juicy texture and a dense, concentrated character. Bottle age will bring the best here. Drink 2020 to 2025 for best enjoyment. (94/100)