Winemaker Amber Pratt is thrilled with the way everything is shaping up at C.C. Jentsch Cellars this season. The new vintages are soon to be bottled and among those is a brand new white wine ideal for the hot Okanagan summer.
“The Quest” is one of those perfect summer wines. A blend of stainless steel-fermented Chardonnay, Viognier, and Gewürztraminer, this wine is “lushly fruity,” says Amber. “Lots of golden pineapple, banana, and melon flavours.” This one will be perfect for summer picnics and lounging by the water, both of which can be done in C.C. Jentsch’s new picnic area. Mere steps from the parking lot, this picnic spot is across a new footbridge over Testalinda Creek. Relax in the shade with a picnic and then take a stroll through the vineyards to another old stone footbridge higher up the creek. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you!
The new 2014 rosé named “The Dance” is Merlot-dominant blend. “It’s going to have an even more refreshing quality to it,” says Amber.
The 2014 Small Lot Chardonnay will be bottled in the late spring and available when it is ready. This is a small batch of Chardonnay fermented and aged in barrels that is estimated to produce only about 100 cases of standard bottles and 100 Jeroboams (spectacular 3 litre bottles). A similarly small lot of 2013 Malbec, which only amounted to around 50 cases, will be available around the same time. These wines won’t last long so be sure to ask for them soon.
The wine shop will be open 10am – 6pm daily throughout the summer.
(photo: Winemaker Amber Pratt)
~ Luke Whittall