CHECKMATE Opening Gambit Merlot 2019 Bottle (los)
Red Still Wine | Canada | 75cl
WAS £99.95
Now £74.95
ABV: 14.5%
Size: 75cl
Closure Type: Cork
Country: Canada
Wine Style: Full Bodied
Grape: Merlot
Description
IN BRIEF
Checkmate Merlot Okanagan Valley Opening Gambit 2019 is an elegant red wine that reflects the exceptional winemaking practices of Checkmate Artisanal Winery in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. This wine showcases a deep ruby colour and invites exploration with its enticing appearance. The nose reveals a captivating bouquet of ripe blackberries, red cherries, and plum, enhanced by cocoa, spice, and herbal notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-balanced, with rich fruit flavours and refined tannins supported by lively acidity. This smooth wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, hearty pasta dishes, and rich cheeses. Rated 95 points by Anthony Gismondi and 94 points by James Suckling, this Merlot is a remarkable choice for wine enthusiasts.
ABOUT THIS WINE
Checkmate Merlot Okanagan Valley Opening Gambit 2019 is an elegant and meticulously crafted red wine that reflects the exceptional winemaking practices of Checkmate Artisanal Winery, located in British Columbia's renowned Okanagan Valley. This region is celebrated for its diverse terroir and ideal climate for producing high-quality wines, and the Opening Gambit Merlot is a standout expression of these unique conditions.
The wine typically presents a deep ruby colour, inviting for its rich and enticing appearance. On the nose, you will find a captivating bouquet of ripe blackberries, red cherries, and plum, interwoven with complex aromas of cocoa, spice, and a hint of herbal undertones. This aromatic complexity sets the stage for a delightful tasting experience.
On the palate, Checkmate Merlot delivers a full-bodied profile, showcasing a well-balanced combination of rich fruit flavours and refined tannins. The mouthfeel is smooth and velvety, supported by lively acidity that enhances the wine's freshness. Flavours of dark cherry and blackberry are complemented by subtle notes of vanilla and toasty oak, contributing to the wine’s overall depth and sophistication.
As a versatile wine, Checkmate Merlot is an excellent companion for a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, hearty pasta dishes, and rich cheeses. Its balance and character make it approachable for immediate enjoyment, but also lend itself to short- to medium-term aging, allowing it to develop further complexity over time.
Overall, Checkmate Merlot Okanagan Valley Opening Gambit 2019 is a beautifully crafted wine that captures the essence of the Okanagan Valley. With its blend of richness, balance, and elegance, it stands out as a remarkable choice for both casual wine drinkers and discerning enthusiasts alike, inviting you to indulge in its sophisticated flavours and enchanting character.
ANTHONY GISMONDI 95 Points
It is wild fermented and spends 21 months in new French oak barrels. As mentioned, the wine has an extra lift this year, a mix of black raspberries and cassis with a whiff of black forest cake on the nose. The palate is similar, with more cassis, blackberry, and cherry that fade into savoury, dark chocolate, and tobacco finish. Expect a richer, denser, fuller style that will age.
JAMES SUCKLING 94 points
A rich and juicy merlot with loads of pretty and focused fruit, with blackberries, walnuts and chocolate as well as rough, silky-textured tannins. It is structured and intense, yet remains agile and fresh. Drink after 2027.
WINE ENTHUSIAST 91 points
The aromas offer appealing notes of dark plum, mineral, licorice, spice and a whiff of mesquite. Highly structured red fruit flavors follow, with a lot of acid and tannin behind them. Best after 2025. — Sean P. Sullivan
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ABOUT THIS PRODUCER
Checkmate is an esteemed winery located in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Canada, dedicated to producing premium, handcrafted wines that embody the essence of the region. With a focus on small-batch production, Checkmate aims to create exceptional Chardonnay and limited offerings of other varietals that showcase the unique terroir and climate of the Okanagan Valley.
The winery prides itself on its meticulous vineyard management, selecting premium vineyard sites that benefit from the diverse microclimates and varied soils of the region. This dedication to quality ensures that the grapes are cultivated to achieve optimal ripeness and flavour complexity.
Checkmate is particularly renowned for its Chardonnay, which is crafted using traditional winemaking techniques and reflects the winery's commitment to excellence. The wines are known for their finesse, elegance, and balance, often displaying vibrant acidity alongside rich fruit and mineral notes. The careful aging process in French oak barrels adds depth and complexity, resulting in wines that are both approachable and capable of ageing gracefully.
The winemaking philosophy at Checkmate embraces the belief that great wines are made in the vineyard. This focus on terroir-driven expressions allows each vintage to reflect the unique characteristics of the growing season and the specific vineyard sites utilized.
As Checkmate continues to gain recognition on both national and international stages, it remains dedicated to its goal of crafting exceptional wines that resonate with wine enthusiasts. Each bottle tells a story of passion, craftsmanship, and the beauty of the Okanagan Valley, inviting consumers to explore and appreciate the artistry behind these fine wines. Whether enjoyed at special gatherings or savoured on quiet evenings, wines from Checkmate celebrate the vibrant spirit of Canadian viticulture and the dedication of its winemakers.