$35CAD
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc
From Okanagan Valley, BC

Medium-red to rim. Nose of cedar, bramble, cassis, and pepper. Full bodied with lots of tannin and spice. Hot in the mouth. Needs a heck of a lot of time if it’s going to come together. 85 points.

Considering what Mission Hills can put out for $16, this one is a big disappointment.

I tried the Oculus and agree........I also tried their Syrah, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay..........I don't have tasting notes for them(I was at work when I tried them) but was not super impressed.....although the chardonnay did have its merits.

Jump,

Just as a heads up, the July Vintages catalogue will have a Mission Hill spotlight/promo during the release on the 12th. The wines will be as follows:

'01 Pinot Gris Reserve, $17CAD
'01 Late Harvest Riesling, $25CAD - 375mL
'00 Merlot Reserve, $20CAD
'01 Pinot Noir Reserve, $18CAD

futronic..........thanks for the heads up....

you've got friends in the right places.......any more good news?

Yes, the 2001 Falesco Vitiano will be in the second July release (the 26th) for $13CAD. I'll be buying two cases.

futronic-- I was not wowed by the Falesco Vitiano. I know it's cheap and all, but I don't see it, even at that price, as a great QPR. Is there lots of bottle variation? Does it need to be decanted? Let it sit for 'x' months?

d'oh

I have no idea. I've never tasted it, but my palate lines up quite well with Suckling's as well as many other posters that have enjoyed the wine. If I don't like the wine, I can take it back. That's one of the few strong points of the LCBO here in Ontario.

I'll let you know late July!