Enigmatic, pristine, expressive.
This vintage of Michael Bartier's consistently outstanding pink is differs greatly in composition from last, which was Merlot dominant. The 2020 is made from only 6% Merlot, with 52% Chardonnay and 42% Gewurztraminer; the grapes were hand harvested from the home estate Cerquiera Vineyard on the Black Sage Terrace in Oliver, BC and their second vineyard in Summerland. The cuvee spent 4.5 months in stainless steel sitting on yeast lees.
Rose gold in colour it suggests pink grapefruit and honeysuckle, peach stone, tangerine oil and sweet brown spices. The palate is like wading into a fresh mountain stream; juicy and pristine with hints of tangy forest berries and cedar. Expressive and nicely woven the finish trails rose oil, nutmeg and crab apple flavours.
Lengthy and enigmatic.
©copyright 2021 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 15th, 2021