Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaThis recent incarnation of Charme de L'ile (tasted spring 2021) was the first made by winemaker Brent Rowland for Averill, and was the first sparkling he has made other than his pét-nat at Niagara's Pearl Morisette. This keeps the same varieties as previous (60% pinot noir, 20% chardonnay, 20% pinot gris), but this was foot stopped and whole bunch pressed immediately, with no sulphur added, and pressed straight to tank on full solids (as is his style), with full MLF. This charmat method fizz then underwent secondary fermentation in tank, and was dosed with 6g/L before being bottled unfined and unfiltered. Peach pit, apricot, almond fills the bright, brisk palate, with a more savoury, brown buttered bent than previous incarnations, through the ample marine salty finish. Much more on the umami, less on the fruit, and still vibrantly so. Check it out again / still. Great new packaging too.Tasted: 13 April 2021Tasted by: Prices:
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaPinot gris and pinot noir are branded under the Charme de L'ile name, signifying Charmat method fizz, from Island grapes. This is a shining example of the high potential for fizz on the islands. Brisk, fresh, racy and severely tight - laced with lemon and orange pith texturing the sides. The body is light and the flow is lively. Best Charme de L'ile I've tasted yet; tastes of the island.Tasted: 25 October 2018Tasted by: Prices:
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaPinot gris and pinot noir are branded under the Charme de L'ile name, signifying Charmat method fizz, from Island grapes. This is a beauty example, fresh and finessed far beyond your typical Proscecco-styled wine. Light florals, crisp pear, green apple and ample minerality on the lively palate. Kissed with honey and an herbal savoury note on the zesty finish. Fantastic value, very impressive.Tasted: 28 November 2016Tasted by: Prices: