33% Merlot. 33% Cabernet Franc. 33% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Cabernet Franc thrives in Ontario and almost always makes wines that do not disappoint. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are most often mundane but when judiciously oaked can shine.
Each varietal was individually fermented. The Merlot was fermented and aged in French oak barrels. The Cabernets were fermented and aged in American oak.
270 cases were produced.
Aroma: Blackberry, black plum, cassis, black cherry and a bit of lavender.
Palate: I was expecting something rich and decadent considering the oak used here. Instead, the result is a wine with a juicy character and almost a bit sour like Bing cherries. God help me but the wine has a strong Baco Noir/Marechal Foch character. Short and sour finish.
Personality: I really dislike disappointing those who might have been looking for a rich Bordeaux blend but some say I came up short like George Constanta’s father with his rotund Korean sweetie.
Food Match: Eggplant Bolognese.
Cellarbility: I will give Featherstone the benefit of a doubt when they state this wine will do well anywhere between 5 and 15 years in the cellar. Being brave I will say give this until 2026 before you open. The youthful sourness may have dissipated but at $40 a bottle I would rather take my chances with a Bordeaux future wine.
Price: $40 CDN.
RKS 2024 Wine Rating: 86/100. Wine Align 90.
(Featherstone 2020 Onyx, VQA Niagara Peninsula, Featherstone Estate Winery, Vineland, Ontario, 750 mL, 13%).
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