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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Elephant Island Blanc de Blancs Reservetext
91POINTS
16¾/20

Elephant Island Blanc de Blancs Reserve 2020

Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThere is nothing like sparkling chardonnay that has spent 60 months on its lees in the bottle, and three more months after being disgorged, building opulence and flavours that seem impossible to come from a single varietal. Expect a whack of lemon-curd brightness and vibrancy, buoyed by dried lemon peel, hazelnut, and nougat. The palate is creamy but not too soft, thanks to its extra-brut styling and medium-sized mousse, and the acidity you can get on the Naramata Bench. The winery nails the description with "light on its feet but stays in the room; elegant without being fragile and complex without being fussy." Another quality: a chalky B.C. sparkler that is ready to take on the world. Matches include lobster, caviar, or salty snacks. Classic Blanc de Blancs tasting at its peak.Tasted: 01 August 2026Tasted by: Anthony Gismondi and Geoffrey MossPrices:
BC$69.00750mlwinery direct
Producer: Elephant Island Orchard WinesDistributors: Winery Direct
Grape: ChardonnayCSPC: 7755UPC: 626990288985