Who – Tantalus Vineyards
What – Old Vine Riesling 2007
Where – Okanagan Valley
Why – When I was up in the Okanagan last week, I was fortunate enough to stop by Tantalus Vineyard’s for a tasting. A knowledgeable and friendly tasting room staff member (a growing rarity?) led us though Tantalus’ lineup. This one certainly stood out – and it’s easy to see why it’s gaining global fans (Jancis Robinson, among them). While I love Tantalus’ regular Riesling (I bought a case for drinking now), I was very impressed by the makeup – and most of all – potential, of their Old Vine Riesling. This one can go the distance! Intense green apple, citrus and petrol aromas, lead to a bone-dry palate of vibrant and focused citrus, granny smith, mineral and perfumed white peach. A lengthy, green apple finish resonates much beyond the last sip. Cool-fermented free run juice from old vines plus low yields translate to complexity – lots going on here. The amazing acidity and structure might not be for everybody – right now – but lay this bottle down for a few years (3-5) and prepare to be amazed. And I get a kick that the old vines were from the same year as I was born. I’m old vines!
When – If you can wait a few years time, you’ll be rewarded. For a great Riesling to try right now, pick up some of their Riesling 2008 ($23).
How (Much) – $29.90. Just a wee 290 cases made.
Winespeak of the Week – Tantalus of this week will look vastly different from the Tantalus I visited. A brand-new ultra modern and architecturally stunning winery and tasting room were nearing completion when I visited, and I had the unexpected pleasure of a tour from winery GM (and jack of all trades) Jane Hatch. Jane, who I’m sure had a gazillion things going on preparing for harvest, graciously took the time to show us the stunning new 12,000 sq. ft building – LEED certified (BC’s first LEED winery) and window heavy – taking advantage of the view over their vines on the hillside below but also to maximize natural light whenever possible. One entire glass wall of the tasting room has been made to open, blurring the lines between inner and outer vineyard experience. There are also windows between the raised tasting room, and the tank room, allowing visitors to see production in process and become connected to the process. With Okanagan harvest and crush upon us, all energies will be focused on winemaking, but be sure to bookmark a visit to see their finished tasting room in a few months’ time.
No comments:
Post a Comment