As winter’s chill sets in, elevate your evenings with the warmth of our new releases – NBO 2020 and Reserve 7 2020 – robust reds that are the perfect companions for cozy winter nights.
The Benchmark Series NBO 2020 is a complex Cabernet Sauvignon driven blend, comprised of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon and 44% Merlot. This single vineyard wine is from our North Bench Oliver estate and is an excellent representation of our Blue Terrace vineyard terroir. Planted over two decades ago, its stony soils retain heat throughout the cool autumn nights enabling the Cabernet Sauvignon to perfectly ripen. The Merlot adds subtlety and softness to the boldness of the Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine displays fragrant aromas of cassis, dark cherry, vanilla and cocoa. A rich palate follows of ripe black fruit and caramel, ending with powerful yet supple tannins. The previous vintage was honoured with a GOLD at the National Wine Awards of Canada. Only 685 cases made.
Our Benchmark Series Reserve 7 2020 was crafted with grapes from a range of south Okanagan vineyards for a multifaceted wine. The largest component is Merlot from Front Yard vineyard in Naramata, which is complimented by both Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon from Raju vineyard near the Canada / US border. We rounded out the blend with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from the rocky soils of our own Blue Terrace vineyard, Cabernet Franc from Sunshine Acres and Merlot from Remuda, making this a true blend of a variety of terroirs. This Merlot based Bordeaux style blend displays effusive aromas of fresh black cherry, raspberry, plum, and eucalyptus. Well structured with a good streak of acidity, the palate shows concentrated blackcurrant, cedar box and vanilla characteristics. A harmonious balance of tannin and acidity make this a wine for aging. The previous vintage was honoured with a Platinum at the BC Lieutenant Governor’s Wine Awards and Gold at the National Wine Awards of Canada. Only 625 cases made.
Stock up your cellar and cheers to the warmth within and the chill outside!
