Availability: Direct from winery here. Select private and VQA stores
Cost: $35
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 660 cases
Date Tasted: November 1st, 2011
Tasting Notes: Year-in, year-out the Tribute Series from Meyer Family Vineyards captures the essence of Naramata Bench Chardonnay: an intense and juicy orchard fruit profile with crisp stonefruit notes. The acid is higher in the 2010 release than that of the sublime 2009 vintage, but the oak treatment and malo-lactic fermentation has balanced the tartness with a welcomed creamy texture. Lemon zest and vanilla are perceptible through the long, long finish.
This Chardonnay is an excellent example of a white wine that should not be served too cold. When given a chance to breath and warm-up slightly, the nose will blossom revealing a developing bouquet of pear, brioche and lees. Tasting lovely now and may develop further over the next 2 years as Meyer wines have, thus far, proven to be cellar worthy. Drink 2011-2015.
- Liam Carrier ©copyright 2011 IconWines.ca
On a side note: This year's tribute honours Sonia Gaudet, an amazing paralypian who's Wikipedia page (see here) lists her many international wins for Canada in the challenging sport of wheelchair curling.