Summerhill Pyramid Winery Cipes Ariel Premier Cuvée 1998
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCertainly the most distinctive packaging for a sparkling wine in BC, from the most unique winery and probably the most memorable wine story as well. A misplaced lot in the cellars was rediscovered a couple of years ago, resulting in the release of this ultra-premium (for BC) cuvée. This estate grown blend of pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier was disgorged after 13 years sur lie. Soy and vegemite at first whiff, chased by pear, apple blossom and brioche. The bubbles are super fine and subtle in the glass, the result of the lengthy aging. Regardless, the rich brioche, lemon custard, stone, pear butter, dried apple and nut shell character is potent, alluring and lengthy. A lovely vein of acidity flows to the nutty finish of this powerful sparklerTasted: 24 December 2014Tasted by: Prices:
Summerhill Pyramid Winery Cipes Ariel Premier Cuvée 1998
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSummerhill has had its ups and downs over the years but lately there are more ups than down and the new ups are higher. Case in point is the stunningly fine Cipes Ariel bubble. Mysteriously lost in the depths of the cellar the 1998 has emerged as one of the finest sparkling wines ever made in British Columbia. The fruit is estate grown at Summerhill's Kelowna vineyard and is now a delicious, old, 59/40/1 blend of pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier. Expect a rich, powerful yet delicate nose of complex aromas including citrus, brioche, apricot skin and hazelnuts. The texture is equally impressive and creamy with a fine lees character that adds to its complexity. The flavours are more gout Anglais than fresh but it remains in fine shape with bright lemon, toasted ginger and bits of red apple fruit. Very food-friendly and ready to drink.Tasted: 24 December 2012Tasted by: Prices: