89POINTS
16¼/20
Tantalus Maija Pinot Noir 2017
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaEventually, the ‘Juveniles’ grow up. They can be still youthful, but in this case, the young vines at Tantalus are growing up just like owner Eric Savics’ daughter. Maija is named for Eric’s daughter and is the new iteration of the Juveniles Pinot Noir, made with a mix of Dijon clones. The colour is ruby red, the nose an alluring mix of raspberries and spice mixed with tea leaf and savoury, earthy notes. The attack is sweet but tempered by acidity and well-managed tannins. It was a hot, smoky summer, but in the end, the smoke retarded the maturation, working more like a sunscreen than something invading the grapes. The fruit is a mix of home vineyard vines and a neighbouring vineyard. It’s all wild fermented before ageing in 20 percent new and seasoned French oak barriques for 11 months. It’s blended just before bottling. Best of all, it’s a bargain. Back up the truck.Tasted: 20 January 2019Tasted by: Prices:BC | $21.65 | 750ml | winery direct, private wine shops |
Grape: Pinot NoirCSPC: 348755UPC: 626990106203