Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
Aged en tirage for more than five years, this beautiful Brut boasts hints of red apple peel, grapefruit and orange zest, dried quince, toasty filo pastry, and buttery brioche. On the palate, it exhibits a tight mineral structure that drives through from start to finish with elegant balance. It's rich and creamy mousse is supported by elegant acidity indicative of Niagara terroir, with notes of pastry, royal gala apples and rich marmalade.
Vineyard Notes
Despite the late start to the growing season due to a cool spring, the vines started taking off in early May, making up for lost time and enjoying the ideal, hot and dry days throughout June, July and August. This above average hot summer was perfect for grape development, allowing all varieties, including the later ripening reds the opportunity to flourish. Things got challenging approaching the harvest as the weather shifted to less than ideal, with high heat, and humidity and a bit of rain, thankfully enough dry days allowed for all varietals to be harvested by early November. Both thin skinned grapes and the later ripening reds were at optimal quality thanks to ideal growing conditions throughout the summer.
Production Notes
Predominantly hand harvested from our estate vineyard, this blend of Pinot Noir (53%), Chardonnay (42%) and Pinot Meunier (5%) were whole bunch pressed, clarified and fermented separately. The base blend was carefully assembled to create a balanced, elegant wine. Secondary fermentation occurred in bottle with carefully selected yeast before aging on lees (sur lee) for five years. This aging period encouraged a richer wine with incredible complexity to engage the palate.
Food Pairing Notes
Try this very versatile wine with smoked salmon, feta and spinach frittata, leek and onion puff pastry tart and tandoori prawns. Excellent with Brie, Camembert, Gouda and Gruyere cheeses.
