Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $39.90
Alcohol: 12.5%
Date Tasting: March 20th, 2010
Tasting Notes: Rollingdale is a relatively new and little-known Okanagan Valley producer from West Kelowna who source grapes from top Valley growers to craft unique and sometimes exquisite wines. The name of their Cabernet Sauvignon-heavy meritage blend, "La Gauche", is a clever homage to the Left Bank of the Gironde river in Bordeaux (the firm also produce a Merlot-heavy "La Droit") and clearly the wine is structured to emulate those superb Médoc beauties. The most impressive thing, however, is not the creative marketing but that they have managed to pull it off. The palate, especially, successfully mimics the terroir-driven character of an Old World wine while the nose remains grounded in New World brightness and flare.
Intense aromas of mocha espresso, cherry nibs, dark berries, cassis and licorice on the nose are followed by meaty flavours of leather, oak, earthy minerality and vanilla with a touch of dark fruits on the palate. Moderate alcohol, high acidity and integrated tannins contribute to a medium-bodied palate. A medium-plus finish with lingering spice completes the experience.
This wine has been built to age and should do so nicely. At three years old, it's still showing a bit young. Give it another two years in your cellar to maximize enjoyment. Drink 2011-2016.
- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2010 (with Hugh Carter)
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