Trius Grand Red Hillebrand 2005

"Canadian wines are not usually my first port of call, but my good friend Giles Hogg Marchmont this week re-introduced me to a magnificent Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon from the Niagara On-The-Lake region. Sporting a distinctive cedar nose, this spicy rascal is punchy and fruity on the palate, and is a snip at around fifty dollars.

Not long ago I knocked at the heavy oak door of the Hillebrand Winery and asked to whet my whistle, whereupon I was led along a marble floored corridor to the candlelit inner sanctum of the tasting room.

Already inside were two middle-aged Norwegian tourists of the female variety, who after sampling the delightfully full-blooded red with me, insisted I accompany them back to the Anchorage Motel Bar and Grill.

Modesty forbids me to reveal what transpired with the two ladies - suffice to say that 2005 was a very good year for Trius Grand Red Hillbrand. I think I shall order a whole case." ""