Availability: Sold out. Contact winery for possible library release
Cost: N/A
Alcohol: 14.6%
Date Tasted: February 27th, 2011
Tasting Notes: From the Cellar. 2003 was the year of the devastating forest fires in the Okanagan Valley which destroyed houses and vineyards and overtly represents a reminder of an incredibly hot and dry vintage. Many of the wines of this vintage, to which The Bear is no exception, are higher in alcohol than in a more temperate year. It's a challenge to any winemaker to overcome a super hot and dry vintage especially with problems like over-heating which fall into the "not much we can do about it" category as vines will simply shut-down in extreme heat limiting flavour development.
The Bear fares well with good concentration on the nose and palate of abundant red fruit, plum, licorice, blackberry and cassis characters. Full-bodied from both the rich fruit and alcohol, the balance is a touch "hot" but does not affect the enjoyment of the wine which has aged very well (perhaps better than the 2004 vintage). A long, long finish with smooth, integrated tannins and good complexity. Close to peaking, enjoy this wine over the next 2-3 years. Drink 2011-14+.
- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2011 IconWines.ca
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