Tasted blind, one could all too easily be in Burgundy. Bright green apple opens on the nose and expands further in the mouth, together with a background citrus note. Exhibits impressive dynamic balance, with zesty acidity and lively minerality tempered by elegant creamy texture. Another showcase expression of Nova Scotia’s unique terroir.
This is the long-awaited first release from a winery that will not officially open its doors until 2016. Several barrel samples I have tasted provide compelling evidence that Lightfoot and Wolfville is destined to do great things in Nova Scotia. Subtle richness on the nose is reminiscent of Premier Cru Burgundy, revealing lemon citrus, buttery spice, a deft touch of vanillin and an elegant hazelnut backdrop. Rounded richness plays through on the palate with incisive green apple and citrus flavours, focused minerality and brisk acidity. Bright fruit and mellow, leesy notes linger on the finish. This extraordinary wine has only been in the bottle for a short time. It will continue to develop for years to come.
Compared to the Silver Bridge Syrah, this is a more open rendition which sings black pepper, dark cocoa, plum, raspberry, oregano and violets. Ready to drink with pot roast.
Fragrant bouquet of raspberry, red liquorice and root beer. More red-toned fruits on the medium-bodied palate, plus bright acidity, fine tannins and elegant mouthfeel add up to a quaffable and food-friendly sipper. Strawberry, cherry cola and vanilla linger. Pair with bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin.
Very fragrant bouquet punctuated by cassis, black cherry and dried thyme. 18 months of French oak maturation builds structure, softens tannins and contributes spiciness. Cherry juiciness on the mid-palate transforms to prune, cigar box and dark chocolate shavings on the finish. Begs for smoked meat.
Rockway continues their qualitative ascension. This blend of 54% Cabernet Franc, 31% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon reveals cassis, raspberry, mint, herbs, tobacco and violets. Splendid length, good acid and suave tannins.
The cool 2011 vintage meant elegant wines became the benchmark rather than riper, richer wines. A well-balanced blend of the 5 classic Bordeaux grapes plus fleshy Syrah. Fresh aromas and red-fruited flavours dominate, with notes of tobacco, black pepper and cedar. Pairs well with roasted meats.