2019 Small Lot Block 8 Malbec

WINE TASTING NOTES

A delicate Malbec opening on a floral nose of fresh-cut violets complemented by intense dark fruit, desert sage, chocolate, and earthy notes. The palate is dense and full-bodied with ripe blueberry and blackberry flavours prevailing. A fine tannin structure combined with slight toasty oak and vanilla notes, adds an extra layer of complexity to the long and smooth 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: 5.9 g/L

pH: 3.6

Residual Sugar: 0.11 g/L

Alcohol: 14.5%

Harvest Date: October 3rd  

Bottling Date: August 24th, 2021

Maturation: 20 months in French oak, 50% new

Aging Potential: 10+ years

Varieties: Malbec 100%