Two Amazing Reds: Arrowhead Springs Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2014 & Estate Merlot 2014

I love Duncan and Robin Ross. Really good people. They are estate wine growers and are concerned with producing quality fine wines. Not only is Arrowhead Springs Winery among the leading quality wine producers in the Niagara Escarpment, it's one of the better quality producers throughout the state. 

They produce wines from their estate Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Chardonnay, Riesling and Vidal Blanc, as well as grapes purchased from local vineyards. Newer plantings include more Pinot Noir and Tempranillo. And they do it all using sustainable farming methods. And they are leaders in the industry.

Recently, I pulled out a pair of wines from them over a month's time. And it was nothing less than special.   

The first I pulled was the Arrowhead Springs Estate Merlot 2014. This Niagara Escarpment Merlot is grown on their western slope where truly the vines flourish during the growing season. This estate wine is aged in oak for 24 months. Big notes of red raspberry, ripe cherry, and cassis comes across with a lovely dollop of vanilla and spice. A real winner. Super impressive.

Drinking Single Malt Scotch with Duncan in Rochester.

I have written here before I am loathe to try eastern Cabernet Sauvignon because I am always worried it will be a big dark red bell pepper. But Arrowhead Springs Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 was an impressive surprise. The attack was all dark cherry, dark raspberry, dark cassis, with a beautiful smooth middle, and impressive ending that develops into a nice dry finish. I had it with a New York strip steak, and it was so impressive!!!

I LOVE Arrowhead Springs! These wines prove that the Escarpment is a place where great wines are not only possible, but being made right now.

Great job Duncan and Robin!