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91POINTS
16¾/20
CheckMate Artisanal Winery Capture Chardonnay 2015
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe fruit for Capture is grown at the Border Vista Vineyard on the East Osoyoos Bench at 340-350 metres above sea level. It's a single block planted in 1997 to Dijon clone 76 over fine-textured, complex, low-nutrient sandy soils. The fermentation was all in barrel, and 64 percent was native. Despite a normally warm site and a super warm year, the entire wine went through malolactic fermentation before spending 16 months in French oak, of which 54 percent is new. Again, I'm reminded of the Mission Hill Perpetua, albeit with more concentration. Winemaker Phil McGahan says the attractive aromatics that jump from the glass are partially due to the native ferment. He also uses more water bent barrels to keep the toast factor in check and let the fruit speak. As a result, the '15 is surprisingly and pleasantly less rich in the mouth. In August, the pick was the earliest ever, preserving acidity and freshness. Expect enticing orchard blossoms on the nose with creamy textures, apples, tangerines and pears. The wine is just beginning to awaken, but I already like the finesse and length. As for Capture, it's a term to avoid in chess but describes the vineyard site tucked up against the border with nowhere to go. Drink through 2022.Tasted: 19 December 2018Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:| BC | $90.00 | 750ml | winery club members |
| BC | $200.00 | 1500ml | winery direct |
Grape: ChardonnayCSPC: 675280UPC: 776545801050
