Checkmate End Game Merlot 2020

The von Mandl family began their journey over 40 years ago. The first sign of the real potential of the vineyards came in 1994 with a surprise win at the International Wine & Spirit Competition in London for ‘Top Chardonnay in the World.’ The family has developed exceptional vineyards with distinctive Chardonnay and Merlot clones, some of which are now over 40 years old, at what are now CheckMate Artisanal Winery vineyards. A complex nose, showcasing raspberry, chocolate, spice and deep red fruits. The palate is elegant and refined with more spice, dark cherry, raspberry, chocolate, sassafras, good weight, classic tannins and a long vibrant finish. 93 Points - Wine Enthusiast A blueberry fruit and leather aroma sidles up nicely to notes of lilacs and cedarwood. The wines blackberry and espresso flavors are joined by a mildly bitter note reminiscent of arugula. These are some impressive tannins, so the wines texture is still a bit chewy. Prepare to decant in the short term. Enjoy 2024–2038. — Michael Alberty