2019 Phantom Creek Syrah

WINE TASTING NOTES

Phantom Creek Vineyard has played a pivotal role in establishing Syrah as one of Okanagan’s signature grape varieties. With under 2 acres planted, we produced a meagre four barrels of Phantom Creek Vineyard Syrah in 2019. The nose elegantly expresses the varietal’s floral and savoury traits while also exhibiting the signature nuances of desert sage akin to red wines of the South Okanagan. The palate of this Syrah showcases notes of dark chocolate, subtle dried herbs, and black cherry fruit combined with lovely violet floral elements and a hint of fresh ground coffee. This wine has a plush mouthfeel with refined tannins and a lengthy finish.

WINEMAKER NOTES

A cooler April in 2019 was quickly followed by warm conditions in May and June resulting in perfectly timed bud break in the vineyards. Summer brought more warmth to the valley but temperatures were average and this allowed the vines to fully develop. Harvest started with warm and dry conditions and the early ripening varieties were harvested on schedule. However, by the end of September, a slight change in weather conditions brought cooler temperatures and small amounts of rainfall to the valley. October was warm and had minimal rainfall allowing for more flavour development and acidity retention in the grapes. Harvest 2019 was challenging and required extremely precise vineyard management, however the result of all that hard work is well balanced wines with vibrant fruit characters and freshness.

VINEYARD NOTES

Established by pioneering viticulturist Richard Cleave in 1996, Phantom Creek Vineyard is located on the lower terrace of the Black Sage Bench just above the warm valley floor. The tiny, eight-acre parcel is planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon. Since the early 2000s, fruit from the property has been used for single vineyard bottlings, a tradition we proudly honour and continue today at the winery.

Wine Specs

Vintage: 2019

Acid: 5.7 g/L

pH: 3.7

Residual Sugar: 0.11 g/L

Alcohol: 14.9%

Harvest Date: October 9th   

Bottling Date: August 24th, 2021

Maturation: 20 months in French oak, 45% new

Aging Potential: 5 years

Varieties:  Syrah 100%