2023 Small Lot Evernden Pinot Gris
- Vintage
- 2023
- Region
- Similkameen Valley
- Country
- Canada
- Alcohol Content
- 14%
- Grape Variety
- Pinot Gris
TASTING NOTES
This terroir-driven Pinot Gris opens with subtle aromas of beeswax, ripe pear, white blossoms, and a gentle touch of honey. Beneath these delicate aromatics lie hints of stone fruit and a whisper of citrus zest.
On the palate, it’s flinty, refined, and beautifully balanced, showcasing a graceful interplay of juicy pear, crisp apple, and white peach, underpinned by a light mineral tension that reflects the vineyard’s distinct character.
Pair this elegant white with herb-crusted halibut, prosciutto-wrapped melon with goat cheese, or a leek and Gruyère tart for a fresh and vibrant dining experience.
WINEMAKER NOTES
The 2023 vintage in the South Okanagan, particularly around Oliver, was shaped by a year of climatic extremes. A devastating cold event in late December 2022 brought temperatures as low as -30°C, resulting in significant bud damage and vine loss throughout the valley.
While Phantom Creek’s estate vineyards—benefiting from their south-facing slopes and proximity to the valley floor—fared better than some, yields were still well below average. A cool, delayed start to spring quickly gave way to record-setting heat, with 2023 registering the highest Growing Degree Days (GDD) on record. The small crop ripened quickly under consistently warm, dry conditions, leading to an early harvest in ideal fall weather.
The resulting fruit showed excellent flavour concentration, ripe tannins, and balanced acidity—qualities that define the character and resilience of this challenging but promising vintage.
VINEYARD NOTES
Beyond the Kobau Mountain lies the Similkameen Valley, where its unique geological features create optimal conditions for viticulture. The soil here harbors a rich glacial history, with a high degree of rock metamorphosis. The interplay of abundant stones, granite, gravel and silty soil set a sturdy foundation for the root systems. In 2017, under the guidance of Olivier Humbrecht MW, Phantom Creek Estates decided to introduce two noble Alsatian varieties Pinot Gris and Riesling to the Evernden Spring Vineyard.
Wine Specs
Vintage: 2023
Acid: 4.5 g/L
pH: 3.76
Residual Sugar: 0.08 g/L
Alcohol: 14%
Harvest Date: September 5th & 6th
Bottling Date: April 11th, 2025
Maturation: 100% Austrian Oak for 12 months
Aging Potential: 5-6 years
Varieties: 100% Pinot Gris
