From 3:30-7:30 pm today, Hillside Liquor Store will be holding a Cedar Creek tasting.
Cedar Creek winery is located in Kelowna, and has vineyards in four different areas of the Okanagan, each chosen for their suitability for different grape varietals. The vineyards consist of 50 acres in Kelowna, 40 acres at Greata Ranch, between Summerland and Peachland, 25 acres at Desert Ridge, near Osoyoos, and 35 acres at Haynes Creek, near Osoyoos.
Today's tasting consists of the Gewurztraminer, the Pinot Noir and the Meritage.
The Gewurztraminer was harvested from Greata Ranch and CedarCreek, as well as other sites in Naramata and East Kelowna. This varietal thrives in cool climate viticulture regions and the 2008 vintage was cold-fermented in 100% stainless steel and finished in an off-dry style.
The Gewurztraminer shows aromas of white grapefruit, lemon/ lime citrus with a hint of spice. Lychee and grapefruit dominates the palate with refreshing acidity. Recommended with grilled prawns, halibut and Thai curries with fresh fruit.
The Pinot Noir grapes come from our CedarCreek and Greata Ranch Vineyards, which are ideal for growing Pinot Noir. After whole berry cluster pressing, it was fermented using partial wild yeast strains in open-top fermenters and turned using “Kathunking” (turning the cap) two times each day. Aged in a combination of new and one-year old French oak, this is a wonderful Pinot Noir at a great price.
The Pinot Noir is a rich garnet red colour with wild strawberry, raspberry, spice and red cherry aromas. Nutmeg, cloves and spice on palate. Soft silky tannins with a juicy lingering finish. Recommended with fresh salmon, roast lamb, turkey, duck and pork. Pairs well with soft to medium cheeses.
The Meritage is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. The grapes for this blend were harvested from eight vineyards including Desert Ridge in Osoyoos along with sites in Peachland, Naramata, Oliver and Osoyoos. French oak barrel aging has created a well structured wine. This Meritage blend is a deep, dark red cherry with intense aromas of vanilla, coffee, chocolate, mint and berries. Dry and full-bodied with concentrated ripe fruit, structured tannins and a long, lingering finish. Recommended with herb-crusted lamb, prime rib, wild game, hearty stews and maple glazed salmon. Pairs well with firm and aged cheeses.
