Golden Mile Bench, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe subtle changes continue at Culmina, even in what can only be described as a hot vintage in the south Okanagan. Altitude and west side vineyards help to mitigate the worst of the heat, and you sense it on the nose with 2015 showing its best expression of fruit since the inception of this wine. The blend is all Bordelais, via cabernet franc, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot and malbec, but still only clocking 14.5 degrees. Intense smoky cherry, wild blackberry is peppered with black licorice and stealthy, dusty tannins that will disperse through 2023. Cellar through 2025 with ease. It should be a good one.Tasted: 03 February 2020Tasted by: Prices:
BC
$46.00
750ml
winery direct
Producer: Culmina Family Estate WineryDistributors: Principle Fine Wines Blend: Cabernet Franc - Merlot - Cabernet Sauvignon - Petit Verdot - MalbecUPC: 827413000591
Golden Mile Bench, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is a big red from a very big year, so prepare yourself. I recommend decanting, or opening a day in advance, like I did. That gives the cabernet franc, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot, malbec blend time to stretch and enjoy welcome airtime. Even then, this inky black wine feels more than its 14.5 degrees, with ample smoked cherry, wild blackberry, salted black liquorice, and stewed black plum. Tannins are ample, powdery, and robust, necessary to support the heft of the fruit. The finish lingers with charred wood, necessitating a char-grilled meat or veg dish to match. This was raised in French oak, 30% new, for 16 months.Tasted: 08 February 2020Tasted by: Prices:
BC
$46.00
750ml
winery direct
Producer: Culmina Family Estate WineryDistributors: Principle Fine Wines Blend: Cabernet Franc - Merlot - Cabernet Sauvignon - Petit Verdot - MalbecUPC: 827413000591