Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
This wine exhibits rich berry-like aromas, alongside hints of currant, tobacco and raspberry; the palate is rife with flavours of rich, spicy raspberry and leather.
Vineyard Notes
A vintage that started off quite rapidly due to a mild winter and warm start to spring started to slow back to a normal pace in late spring which brought cooler temperatures. The cooler weather remained throughout the summer months with frequent bouts of rain, but was offset by plenty of warm sunny days mixed in. This combination allowed the vines to really flourish with a great blend of sunlight and water. The conditions in September and October were spectacular, with above average temperatures and ample sunshine, providing the 2017 harvest with slightly higher than usual yields of very high-quality fruit in both red and white varieties.
Production Notes
Grapes for this popular variety were harvested from premium vineyards in the Niagara Peninsula. Immediately destemmed and gently crushed upon arrival at the winery the must was fermented at an average temperature of 25c with a total skin contact of 14 days. The free run wine was then transferred into new and older French and American barrels, where aging took place for the next 14 months.
Winemaker Notes
Aromatics of plum, raspberry, and floral notes complement the rich flavours of black cherry and spice. Smooth, approachable tannins and an extended finish are abundant, typical of this classic Niagara variety.
Food Pairing Notes
Margherita Style Pizza, Greek Beef Souvlaki and Lamb Chops.