Arguably some of the best cool climate whites have been produced for more than 25 years on the Golden Mile site of Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery. And this is no accident. “We researched for 7 years before choosing this property. At the time when we decided to establish our vineyard, we didn’t have many neighbours in the industry that we could go for microclimate information. We had to find a lot out for ourselves,” says Walter Gehringer. Getting into the wine business was somewhat accidental for Walter, who apprenticed as a young man in a cellar in Germany while trying to figure out what he really wanted to do in life. He discovered a passion for wine that he thought would translate to his home in the Okanagan, and was instrumental in bringing some of the early vinifera vines to the valley. One of their Platinum award-winning wines is a variety that few grow in the valley: Ehrenfelser. Originally developed to be a more approachable form of Riesling, Ehrenfelser does well in the Golden Mile Bench microclimate. “Although we are on the same latitude as the Rheingau (Germany), our unique climate produces a more lush wine with apricot nuances, and higher tannins than most other white grapes. This gives the wine an extended long finish.” 26 years later, despite changes in weather and growing seasons, their success in the vineyard still supports their original research. And so do their wines.
2011 Ehrenfelser $14.99
Gold 92 pts, L.A. International Wine Competition. A true Okanagan flavor profile of apricot and honey, and a subtle tangy acidity. Unique tannins lead to a dry impression and gorgeous mouth feel.
2011 Reserve Riesling $14.99
Gold- All Canadian/Gold- NW Summit. Aromas of peach, honey, and apple. Good acidity with signature Riesling flavors. Winepress Northwest writes that the “2011 Riesling is keeping pace – if not exceeding it [the 2010 vintage].”
Photo: Walter Gehringer
~ Terry Meyer-Stone