Renaissance man Jay Drysdale continues his quest to raise the appreciation for sparkling wine in British Columbia and beyond, yet the laser-focus of his expanding program remains on small vineyards. He released a trio of sparkling Gamay Noir wines from the 2015 vintage, and two of them grown not far from his bubble house on the Naramata Bench. Cavada Vineyards, at an elevation of 1,600 feet, loom over Bella’s tasting room, and Drysdale began the winemaking on Aug. 24 at 18.8 Brix. Its light peach hue is followed by pretty aromas of white strawberry, pink raspberry and lemon peel, including a touch of toast and melon. There’s a fun ride of flavors, kicking off with blood orange and followed by apricot and nectarine. A rub of red currant skin tannin adds to the midpalate, which finishes juicy with tangerine and raspberry. Enjoy with pork or chicken.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 178 cases
Alcohol: 12.2%
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