Small Lots Two 2017

BLEND: 52% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon

FLAVOUR PROFILE
•  Deep garnet colour with an ever-changing bouquet of dark plum, baking spice, sweet oak, tobacco leaf and chocolate.
•  This full-bodied wine has firm drying tannins, great structure and moderate acidity.
•  Rich, ripe fruit flavours of blackberry, black currant and blue plum are accented by notes of spice and oak.
•  The extra-dry finish shows wonderful notes of blackberry, currant, spice, earth, oak and leather.
•  Pairs well with grilled steak au jus and sautéed mushrooms; beef tenderloin wrapped in bacon; pot roast; roast beef; rosemary lamb chops; roasted leg of lamb; two-year-old Canadian cheddar.

GROWING CONDITIONS
The spring began with a blast of heat and a quick start to the season. Summer and fall cooled slightly allowing a slow, long ripening season, ideal for red varietals, and for expressive aromatic whites. The valley saw slightly wetter than normal conditions; however, the vineyards remained healthy. The southern Okanagan Valley experienced 1635 GDD (Growing Degree Days), representing higher than average heat units.

“For our iconic ‘Sandhill TWO’, the best lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot were chosen from Sandhill Estate Vineyard. We believe that Cabernet Sauvignon, sometimes called the "King of Grapes", is the framework that gives structure and ageability. The Merlot provides width and generosity in the flavour and mouth-feel. The Cabernet Franc provides great aromatics, along with interesting spice and herb notes. The 2016 vintage provided above average heat units, at 1759 GDD in the Sandhill Estate Vineyard, allowing an extended ripening season. This resulted in more flavour development and good natural acidity for balanced and textural wines. Our goal was to create an ageable red that exhibits complexity, intensity and length. This masterpiece should age well over the next 5 to 7 years, into 2025."
 - Sandy Leier, Winemaker