Estate
2021
Estate
Merlot
The 2021 estate merlot was sourced exclusively from sandy loam soils at Kirby Vineyard in Niagara-On-The-Lake, and hand picked from 19-year old vines on October 20. The berries were cold soaked, pressed and transferred to steel tank for 2 weeks for primary fermentation from wild yeast. The wine was transferred to new and neutral French barrels for secondary fermentation and aged for 18 months before filtering and bottling in May of 2023 at 13.2% abv. The finished wine has black and red berry notes, vanilla and a smooth finish.
$ 53.10 CAD
(93 points - R. VanSickle) — Scott Kirby believes this version of the Estate Merlot (only one was made in 2021, not the reserve) “is our best (estate) to date.” The wine is aged in 100% French oak (33% new oak) for 18 months. It shows a lighter shade of red in the glass and has an expressive nose of brambly red berries, umami/mushrooms, earth, red flowers, plums, dark cherries, anise and elegant spice notes. It shows more concentration on the palate with chalky tannins and melange of earthy dark cherries, black raspberries, cassis, anise, savoury spice notes, cloves and a polished finish that’s finessed and long. An elegant and expressive Merlot.
The 2021 Estate Merlot from is an elegant companion to hearty dishes. Its expressive nose of brambly red berries and earthy undertones pairs beautifully with barbecued baby back ribs, enhancing the smoky flavours while its chalky tannins provide a perfect balance. For red sauce pastas, the wine’s dark cherry and cassis notes harmonize with the rich tomato sauce, while its savoury spice and polished finish add depth to every bite. This Merlot brings out the best in both dishes with its refined character and long, finessed finish.
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The kirby connection
Kirby Estate is a passion project of Maria and Scott Kirby who wish to share their limited production wines with like-minded eonophiles that appreciate the best that Niagara has to offer - great quality, tasty, energetic wines. If they have sparked your interest and you would like to know more about Kirby Estate please join the subscription list. You will be advised periodically of happenings in the vineyard and of up coming releases.
