There is a timeless feel to Burrowing Owl Estate Winery – the well-earned reputation for great wines and the Mediterranean charm belie the fact that it’s only about 15 years since the first harvest was brought in.
The addition of a superb restaurant and a 10-room guesthouse have only added to Burrowing Owl’s drawing power on the famed Black Sage Bench. In the winery, the addition this year of highly-regarded winemaker Tom Di Bello is certain to ensure more fine vintages for many years to come.
Burrowing Owl is well-known for the support it provides for its namesake bird, but less obvious are the more than 100 bluebird boxes and 2 bat nurseries, which encourage natural pest control in the vineyards.
The fruit that is grown on the 140-acre vineyard in some of Canada’s finest terroir results, not surprisingly, in consistently exceptionally wines.
The red blends, Athene and Meritage, are fine examples. In the 2010 Athene, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were co-fermented, impressing Master of Wine Rhys Pender, who says, “On the palate the wine is full with plenty of acidity to give backbone and frame [the] game meat, blackberry, plum, red currant, black pepper and paprika flavours that last on the long finish.”
Pender is also enthusiastic about the Meritage, a classic Cabernet Franc (55%), Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot blend: “The combination of fruit and structure should allow it to age and develop for a decade or more. Pair with slowly roasted duck or classically prepared roast beef.”
Thinking of a unique Christmas gifts for the wine lovers on your list? Consider purchasing Burrowing Owl gift cards, which can be used in the Sonora Room, the Guest House, in the wine shop, or even for on-line purchases. Talk about a welcome gift that can be used at any time of the year!
~ Lorne Eckersley