Stratus Vineyards 2009 Red - 90+pts

Stratus Vineyards 2009 Red (Niagara-On-The-Lake) Niagara Peninsula - Ontario

Availability: Not yet released. Direct from winery here and select LCBO stores
Cost: $44
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: December 22nd, 2012

Tasting Notes: Lean, layered and smoky, the 2009 edition of the Stratus Vineyards' signature blend is comprised of 43% Cabernet Franc, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Syrah, 13% Petit Verdot, 4% Tannat and 1% Merlot. An altogether different wine than previous vintages yet recognizable by its impressive use of each varietal component. The Cabernets provide structure and finesse while the trio of Syrah, Petit Verdot and Tannat provide ample spicy notes on both the intriguing nose and smoke-infused, medium-bodied palate. This is not a "big red" blend but rather a nuanced wine offering layers of plum, blackberry, coffee grinds, green pepper and light tobacco characters.

May not hold and evolve quite like the amazing 2007 and 2005 vintages, though, mid-term aging and development should be expected. Drink 2014-2018.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2012 www.IconWines.ca

On a side note: This youthful wine has thus far only been released to purchasers of "futures" which the winery makes available each year for their signature white and red blends.

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