According to owner Jeff Aubry, Syrah is prone to excessive vigour, and if quality is the end game, vineyards need to be manicured constantly. In the case of this offering, CR has practised what they preach. Mid-weight, a combination of spice, pepper, hickory, cassis, raspberry and vanilla are unleashed on the senses. There is a lengthy aftertaste and enough tannin to allow it to age; my personal preference would be to drink over the next couple of years to take advantage of the exuberance. Pair with steak au poivre.
First planted in 1998, this South Africa-sourced grape has its fans and detractors, but is making its mark in the South Okanagan. Fragrant aromas highlight floral, caramel and black fruits. The rich, meaty texture features black cherry, baking spice and a jammy finish. Aerate well. Serve with stewed meats.
This mid-weight Merlot is a textbook example. A profile of plum, cherry, clove, cocoa, cinnamon and vanilla are found on the nose and the palate. The tannins are suave and the finish long, making for an elegant offering. Drink over the next 4 years.
This is still an extremely youthful wine, which is still closed. Currently, there is cassis, blueberry, herbs, tar, violets and spice built on a medium-bodied frame. The long finish is dominated by the tannins right now, so hold until 2014 and then drink until 2020.
This lighter style harkens to Burgundy with its floral nose, red berry flavour, subtle spice, earthy nuances and bright herbal notes from start to finish. Exhibits acidity, fruit and tannin in remarkable harmony, resulting in delicate-yet-mouth-filling sips and a long, satisfying finish. Poised for duck dishes.
The 2010 rendition is a medium- to full-bodied offering with a deep ruby colour. The composition of 46% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon has produced a bouquet of plum, raspberry, blueberry, coconut, vanilla, baking spice, earth and toast. It is concentrated and the tannins are on the firm side, ensuring a decade of life ahead. Superb stuff indeed!
This Cabernet Franc, from the superb 2010 vintage, is a standout. The dark ruby colour leads into a complex nose of smoke, tobacco, cassis, blackberry, raspberry and violets. There is enough concentration and tannic structure to allow it to age until 2020.