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Hester Creek The Judge 2019
Golden Mile Bench, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Judge is made from old vines dating back to 1968. The grapes were meticulously sorted, cold soaked and fermented in separate varietal lots in specialized Italian tanks designed to achieve ideal extraction. 2019 is a blend of 41/31/28 merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and cabernet franc aged for two years in primarily French oak, 30% of which was new. The nose is a mix of caramel and chocolate streaked with black fruits. The palate is similar with black cherry and cocoa dominating, and mostly soft tannins that disappear into a savoury dry finish. This is not a keeper this year despite its price, but rather a wine that will be the best through 2023. Serve with braised meats and rich cheeses to the best effect. In 2019 Growing Degree Days (GDD) were 1598, above the 20-year average of 1474, and seasonally average temperatures with a few heat spikes in the summer resulted in an even growing season.Tasted: 27 July 2022Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:| BC | $49.99 | 750ml | winery online/direct, select private retailers, Terrafiina |
| BC | $95.99 | 1500ml | winery direct |
Blend: Merlot - Cabernet Sauvignon - Cabernet FrancCSPC: 133124UPC: 626990112235
