La Stella 2012 Maestoso Merlot 750ml

Maestoso is shaped after the Super Tuscan model that celebrates merlot and grapes on clay-based soils and high-density plantings. The colour is black and the attack is rich and warm. Long and cool was the seasonal recipe for ripe but not so alcoholic at 14.4 per cent. Black- and blue-fruit flavours with a smoky, savoury, spicy, mid-palate prepare you for the long warm persistent finish with a whack of tannin. It’s a no-holds-barred red that is stretching it legs. A leg of lamb is the current match for this ginormous Osoyoos Lake district merlot. Only 21-per-cent new oak was a wise choice. One of the better 2011 reds in B.C.
91 points |  Anthony Gismondi | Vancouver sun

Supremely elegant and nuanced, LaStella's flagship wine, Maestoso, proves that 100% Merlot wines can be just as memorable and complete as equally priced Cabernet Sauvignon when handled with as much care and detailed attention that the Osoyoos Lake winery applies to this beautiful wine. Disciplined vineyard practices and a precise oak ageing program attained the desired complexity and quality; producing a sublime nose layered with dark berry, plum, chocolate-mocha, vanilla toffee and warm spice aromas with an invigorating vein of menthol lifting the developing bouquet. Similar flavours follow on the richly textured and rounded palate supported by fine, ripe tannins and balanced acidity. The finish lingers effortlessly and meaningfully.

With several hours of decanting you can enjoy this wine today, though, 2-3 more years of bottle age would maximize your investment. Drink 2016-2021.
93 points |  Liam Carrier | Iconwines.ca