2020 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

The 2020 growing season was slow to start, with slightly higher than average rainfall and mild temperatures throughout the spring. Hot and dry conditions, typical of the South Okanagan climate prevailed from late Spring until harvest and were ideal for berry and tannin development. Harvest was completed before a sudden cold snap occurred towards mid October, ending the season quite abruptly for the region. 2020 had a less than average harvest volume due to small berry size, however, smaller berries resulted in more concentrated fruit flavours.

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: 2020

Acid: 5.7 g/L

pH: 3.7

Residual Sugar: 0.23 g/L

Alcohol: 16.1%

Harvest Date: October 8th  

Bottling Date: September 20, 2022

Maturation: 22 months in French Oak,50% New

Aging Potential: 10+ years

Varieties: Malbec 100%