Ottawa, ON

November 2021

Matt’s review:

CheckMate Artisanal Winery produces some of the finest Chardonnay and Merlot from their Golden Mile Bench winery situated in the heart of the Okanagan Valley.

CheckMate’s 2016 Black Rook Merlot is an outstanding expression of ultra premium Okanagan Merlot. Sourced from their estate vineyards on the Black Sage Bench, Black Rook is a deep ruby colour, the nose shows dark plum, subtle sweet spices and savoury notes, hints of mocha, cigar box, and graphite. Elegant with a silky smooth texture, the bouquet repeats on the palate in a beautifully integrated fashion. Fine layers of delicious dark fruits and sweet spices persist, and with 5 years of age already, this wine is going to evolve beautifully over the next decade plus. Only 9 barrels produced, Black Rook is a fantastic choice for starting a vertical with and enjoying this icon in the making while it’s still accessible. Tasted bottle number 320, November 2021. 94+ points. Matt Steeves – http://www.quercusvino.ca

Available winery direct – $95 via CheckMate’s Library allocation

Advertisement