As autumn settles in the vineyards, the vines turn a vibrant hue and the winemakers turn up their sleeves. The hardworking partners at Nighthawk Vineyards are no exception. The results of their diligence and passion are clear in their tantalizing wines. This season, as you turn to the robust, complex flavours suited to cooler weather, have a look at what’s landed at Nighthawk.
After more than 20 months in French oak, the 2012 Syrah has proven to be worth the wait, recently taking home Gold for Best of Varietal (2016 Spring Wine Festival). It’s clear to see why, as this hearty wine showcases juicy dark berries and spiciness, with notes of cocoa, an underlying meatiness and a hint of pepper. Sip it as you watch the leaves fall.
With serendipitous (dare we say eagle-eyed?) timing, Nighthawk has just released two perfect-for-fall wines from last summer’s champion vintage.
The 2015 Chardonnay, aged in French Oak, is full-bodied and luscious. Complimenting the fruits of our Okanagan harvest—golden apples and pears, and a touch of hazelnut, it finishes with a butterscotch smoothness.
The 2015 Pinot Noir is a true terroir-driven wine, with a pleasing complexity derived from the high-desert locale of Nighthawk’s estate vineyard. Aged in Tuscan concrete tanks to maintain the mineral influence of the field, this wine is nicely balanced with red fruits and bright spice, as well.
Nighthawk Vineyards is part of a unique group of Okanagan small lot winemakers known as the Garagistes. Their award-winning vintages, crafted with talent and heart will once again be featured in the Garagiste North Wine Festival on September 18th in Penticton (garagistenorth.com, for tickets). It’s a perfect opportunity to meet Nighthawk’s winemakers and hear their story –and to sample their delicious handiwork!
Like their namesake birdsthat glide above the vineyard, Nighthawk’s graceful wines are definitely something to behold this season.
nighthawkvineyards.com
~ Abbey Westbury
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Nighthawk Vineyards Takes Wing