Small Lots Single Block Chardonnay - B11 2010

FLAVOUR PROFILE
A bright yellow colour with a wonderful bouquet of new oak, sweet vanilla, pie crust, baked apple and pear. This elegantly styled, medium-bodied wine has a slightly rich and round mouth-feel and flavours of butter, tangerine, sweet lemon, fresh apple and biscuits. The finish gently presents notes of sweet lemon, spice and delicate toasty oak. Excellent companion to special dinners which may include lobster and crab dipped in butter; pan-fried scallops; poached salmon; light creamy soups; lightly spiced creamy curry dishes.

GROWING CONDITIONS
The 2010 growing season arrived late as the cold temperatures of a long winter seemed to drag on, much like 2009; the cold temperatures resulted in some reduced crops.  However, unlike the 2009 vintage, the vines did catch up so that by early summer, vine development was at its normal stages.  Summer was extremely hot and dry, which quickly advanced the ripeness of the slightly smaller than usual crop load, foretelling an early quick crush. On Thanksgiving weekend, temperatures dropped to about -9˚C in the South Okanagan, halting any further ripening of the grapes.  However, at this point all our grapes were essentially ripened and ready to pick. We have some great white wines and the reds are excellent, especially with the reduced crop; wines are rich and intense, yet smooth.

WINEMAKER NOTES
“Planted in 1997, block B11 is located on the northern end of Sandhill vineyard and is nestled against a 400 foot granite cliff.  The unique location and intense cultivation contribute to a true expression of terrior in this single block chardonnay.”