2018 Equinoxe Viognier
Single Vineyard Viognier
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Winemaking Notes
The second ever release of a 100% Viognier wine from Le Vieux Pin. After nearly a decade of growing these precious grapes, we finally realized the potential of a very special subplot we are growing these vines on. A measly single puncheon (56 cases) output only, but what a jewel of a wine. The Nose is a myriad of crushed rocks mingling with exotic tropical notes and even more exotic floral nectars. There is an intriguing saline note in the wine which keeps the fruit/foral dance composed and restrained. On the palate, the wine enters with lushness but quickly pulls back with a solid spine of acidity and dry extract. Never overbearing nor lacking. Equinoxe Viognier is a wine that manages to hit that sweet spot of taking the very best of both the old world and the new world. Salut!
Pairing
Smoked Salmon and tropical fruit sushi rolls are a favourite pairing. Pan-fried Veal in cream, morel and Provencal herbs sauce is another winner.
Technical Information
Region: Okanagan Valley Cepage 100% Viognier
Grown: Black Sage Bench
Vineyard: Le Grand Pin
Soil Type: Mostly sand and clay with few pockets of gravel loam
Age of Vines 10 years old Yield 3.9 Production: 56 cases Alcohol: 13.5 Aging: 9 months in a single re-used French oak puncheon
Battonage: Twice a week for the first 4 months, then once a week for the remaining 5 months.
accolades
From a block with some river stone and sand at the winery on Black Sage Road, this is 100% viognier aged in neutral French oak puncheon. Only 50 cases were made. Not a huge nose here, but very complex with orange, apricot, starfruit, sage and light spice. It is full bodied, creamy yet elegant with some heat. Excellent length, with a sense of minerality on the finish. Excellent length.
david lawrason | 92 points
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Wine SpecsVintage2018Alcohol %13.5
