Just so nobody gets more confused than they are already, having come upon this blog and wondering why they read it, I am now into the Prince Edward County section of wineries. A more decidedly northern climate, and therefore, as is the custom, the birthing ground of different grapes. Different soils and climates prohibit certain lovely fruits, and enable others. Although Chardonnay is the dominant grape here, Riesling was more common in Niagara, though Chard was also liberally planted there. Baco Noir exists here, a filthy hybrid grape and maybe the one most suited to growth in the region, as well as tastewise representing the region best. At least, that's what our host at Hillier seemed to think. The gentleman manning the tasting bar was quite gracious, flagrantly Quebecois, and extremely well versed in viniculture as well as restauranting. No big surprise, as I found out he used to own bistro 115, now murray st., in Ottawa. It so happens to have grapes growing out back on it's patio. He so happens to have acres of grapes at his new PEC homestead. Coincidence, I think not. Anyways, this is a winery with a truly young winemaker, Lauren Horlock, who, judging from a few pictures, is also quite a beautiful girl and also well within my age range. Good news I suppose, on the off-chance we should ever meet.
We played Chard vs. Chard to begin, one of these enjoyable jests we use to loosen up the people pouring our wine and perhaps distract them into being overly generous. You'd be astonished how shrewd they can be.
Chard-estate unoaked
-Quite delicious for an unoaked chard, lots of apples and lemon with a lingering citrus finish
Chard-estate oaked
-Toasty nose, much less zip than it's competition, but more round and depthy, if such a word exists. It means "possessing depth" and isn't really a word at all. Subtle oaking, though dominant in aroma, not on the palate.
Gamay Noir
-really peppery aromatics
-lacking structure, very light in flavour, though still interesting, a little tart, reminiscent of a grapefruit peel, unusual for a red.
1 comment:
Hi, I'm the Québecois gentleman who served you at Hilliers Creek Estate. Thanks for the nice comments.
For your info, our Baco is now in Malo-ferm stage and our Rosé is bubbling (my wife calls it Igor). We have high hopes for both because the must tasted fabulous after pressing.
Anyway, if you have a chance, drop in and we will give you a taste.
André and Suzanne
Moonlight on the Lake B&B & Vineyard
Post a Comment