Tasting notes

Two of the classic Bordeaux varieties in an exciting new pairing for Hillside. Blueberry tea jumps out of the glass on the first sniff—a hint of orange rind mingles with the fresh dark fruits. On the palate, the fine-grained tannins lead into a generous and juicy finish.

Awards

This was a barrel sample of a very promising red, with blueberry aromas, with cherry and plum flavours and with a chewy ripe texture. 91 points —John Schreiner April, 2011 Highlights of the event . . .not-yet-released barrel tastings like the amazing Hillside 2009 Merlot-Malbec (with black fruit, blueberry tea and a hint of orange, with a generous long finish) ---Vancouver Observer, April 23, 2011

Winemaking

Select merlot barrels were blended with malbec grown on the warm terrace above the winery. Both grapes enjoyed controlled fermentation, followed by extended maceration, malo-lactic fermentation in oak, and a further 12 months barrel maturation in French and American oak.