Jackson-Triggs 2006 Meritage

Proprietor’s Grand Reserve
12.7% abv
Has the three classic Bordeaux grapes: Merlot 55%, Cabernet Sauvignon 27%, and Cabernet Franc 18%.

Jackson-Triggs Winery is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada. The last time I visited the winery had to be around 8 to 10 years ago. This region has some great wineries and this bottle was one of my favorites back then. I did not buy this bottle at the winery; I got it at the duty free store at the border of Canada. I personally don’t like to buy wine from the duty free stores because they have those blazing hot spot light beaming on the wine bottles 24 hours a day. I want to go back to Niagara-on-the-Lake sooo bad.

Back to the wine. On the bottle it reads: “…aromas of black currant, ripe raspberries and plums underscored with vanilla, cedar and spicy black pepper.” “…flavors of berries, chocolate, coffee and clove…”

Back in the 90’s when I use to visit there they had some very good vintages. I am looking forward to trying this wine. I wish I still had my computer from then – I would have my tasting notes about this wine.

The appearance is a deep ruby color. The aroma is of dark fruit with a nice raspberry presence. There is also a good spicy style to the smell as well.

The plum to me is on the taste not the nose to me. When I taste this I think of biting into a plum. There is also a blackberry and black currant bite along with a red berry called raspberry that adds some character to this flavorful wine. The fine black pepper notes are on the aftertaste along with a nice earthy coating on my palate. There is also a dusting of 85% dark chocolate that lingers on the palate. This is a fuller bodied red wine.

Okay, the first weekend of November I am heading to this winery. No I am not - I just put a new roof on and put in two new doors on the house.  Next year!

If you like wine this is a must go to location!!!

Jackson Triggs Vidal Ice Wine 2007: Review

I love Ice Wine! And, oh do I remember my first experience (we are talking Ice Wine). I was visiting Niagara On-The Lake, Ontario, Canada back in the late 90’s. I had stopped by a winery called Stony Ridge. They offered me a sample of ‘Ice Wine’. Being the Red Wine Snob I said, ‘I only drink reds thank you.’ He said, ‘does not matter what you drink this is an excellent dessert wine.’ Oh, then it is sweet. Sorry, I don’t do sweet wines. He returned, ‘do you like deserts?’ YES! Then, it was in my hand. I had one little sip; then another, and I said, ‘wow this is great!’

I ended up buying six bottles. And, the good stuff is not cheap.

Back then I had made it to the Niagara region to visit the different wineries several times. I am looking forward to getting back there one day. If you love wine it is a must plan trip.

I have been able to find the Jackson Triggs Ice Wine in a local wine store. This is a very good ice wine. It comes in a 187ml bottle for $20. This is a perfect size for me and my wife. It does come in a larger 375ml bottle. Remember, you are only going to drink about 50ml per person in a day.

When you drink this wine you should use an Ice Wine glass which holds about 50ml. And, that is all you should drink of this lovely sweet wine. The sugar content is really high.

The Jackson Triggs Vidal Ice Wine has a fantastic summertime fresh fruit and tropical fruity flavor. The papaya and mango covers the tropical and the nectarine covers the summertime fruit. That sweet, syrupy, ripe nectarine in a glass.

Now, this is a sipping wine. Take your time and enjoy the flavors. It is best to chill this before serving. If you do not have Ice Wine glasses then use a cordial glass. This does go well with fresh fruit. Some people have told me that they have had it with ice cream. I love it with dark chocolate (70%). Or, the best why to have it --- by itself, after dinner.

This is a MUST HAVE.