Sandhill Harvest Series Co-Fermented Red 2020 VQA

WINEMAKING
The Merlot (45%), Cabernet Franc (28%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (27%) grapes were hand-harvested from Vanessa Vineyard in the Similkameen Valley. All the varietals were picked at the same time and co-fermented in small open-topped fermenters. The wine was aged in new French oak barrels for 20 months. The top nine barrels that exhibited the greatest complexity, structure, texture, fruit concentration and ageability were selected for this vintage of the very limited Harvest Series of wines.

FLAVOUR PROFILE
A deep garnet-hued red wine with an aromatic bouquet of dark fruits (plum, blueberry, blackberry, and cherry), accented by warm spice, soft oak, and melted chocolate. This full-bodied blend has youthful drying tannins and great structure. Flavours of blackberry, black cherry, black currant, spice, earth, and oak unfold on the palate. The extra-dry finish shows notes of black tea, cocoa powder, black currant, blackberry, spice, oak, and vanilla bean. Lovely complexity.

FOOD SUGGESTIONS
Wonderful cold winter’s evening sipping wine while sitting fireside: or pairs well with grilled red meats; rich red meat casseroles and stews; wild game cuisine; pot roast with roasted root vegetables; prime rib of beef with garlic mashed potatoes; marinated leg of lamb; beef bourguignon; three to five-year-old Canadian cheddar or other hard aged cheeses. Serve at a cool room temperature of 17 to 18°C in large-bowled stemware.