Fort Berens Estate Winery 2013 White Gold - 89pts

Fort Berens Estate Winery 2013 White Gold (Lillooet) Fraser Canyon - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $21.99
Alcohol: 12.9%
Date Tasted: April 30th, 2015

Tasting Notes: Fort Berens' White Gold is now made exclusively from Lillooet-grown grapes. It receives the full Reserve Chardonnay treatment with extended time in French oak barrels and a softening of the palate thanks to the malolactic fermentation process that contributes creamy textures and buttery-goodness. The lush orchard fruit on offer is grounded by a whispered chorus of cool green apple acidity, lime peel and light, stainless steel minerality. Notes of hazelnuts, toast and lingering spice add depth and character. Drink 2015-2018.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2015 IconWines.ca

Fort Berens Estate Winery 2011 White Gold - 88pts

Fort Berens Estate Winery 2011 White Gold (Lillooet) Fraser Canyon - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $25
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 135 cases
Date Tasted: June 27th, 2013

Tasting Notes: The 2011 White Gold, Fort Berens' premium Chardonnay produced from grapes sourced from the Black Sage Bench, opens with a lovely nose of stonefruit and ripe tropical fruit aromas supported by vanilla bean and light clove notes. The dry, mouth-watering palate follows with a flavour profile of tart orchard fruit, melons and vanilla cream; true to the cool vintage and infused with the effects of 9 months in French oak.

The tangy palate is helped greatly by the partial malolactic fermentation which has contributed a light buttery texture which continues through to the moderate finish where an unexpected hint of spice lingers. Enjoy this Chardonnay over the next 2-3 years. Drink 2013-2015.
  - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2013 IconWines.ca

Fort Berens Estate Winery 2010 White Gold - 91pts

Fort Berens Estate Winery 2010 White Gold (Lillooet) Fraser Canyon - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $24.99
Alcohol: 13.8%
Production: 98 cases
Date Tasted: June 25th, 2012

Tasting Notes: Fort Berens set-out to make a premium Chardonnay in 2010 with the excellent fruit they were able to source from the Black Sage Bench and succeeded admirably. The wine, a light white gold colour, as the name suggests, is deceptive and engaging. It starts with a pleasant, unassuming nose of orchard fruit and honey dew followed by a gentle, smooth entry on the dry palate thanks to the malolactic fermentation that just over half the wine went through. Then an unexpected wave of opulent, richly textured apple and melon fruit charms your mouth with smoky oak and buttercream flavours adding complexity. The intensity builds through to the crest of concentrated but balanced acidity that brightens the mouth and makes way for the next sip of wine or the next bite of your meal. The finish lingers effortlessly.

This Chardonnay should age well if you have the patience but be sure to open one immediately to experience the as-is charm. Drink 2012-2016+.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2012 IconWines.ca