2008 Merlot

Vintage Report

Spring began cooler-than-usual but warm and dry conditions prevailed providing the ideal growing and ripening weather for another typically great Okanagan vintage. Crush commenced on September 15th, was marked by warmer-than-normal temperatures and picking was largely unhurried, steady and slightly longer-than-usual, finally wrapping up on November 10th. Careful vine management, tight pruning regimes and irrigation control came to the fore in allowing the estate-grown fruit to reach excellent maturation levels and optimal phenolic ripeness. The whites are aromatic and elegant and the reds have superior structure with excellent balance and character.

Tasting Notes

An intense, dark nose with aromas of plum, blackberry, anise and mocha. The palate is lush and rich revealing flavours of dark berries, all spice, dried tobacco and earth. The fine grained, dusty tannins support the rich fruit, and the finish is filled with notes of espresso, sage and licorice. The Reserve Merlot has been aged in French oak for 15 months.

Winemaker’s Notes