The Black Sage Bench is internationally celebrated for the distinctive wine cultivated here, wine that is distinguished by the unique terroir of the valley’s desert hills. However, there are few wineries in this renowned little town that capture the character of this region quite as well as the aptly named Desert Hills Winery.
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, newly released for the Fall Wine Festival, is a fine example of this. Grown in a single vineyard on the estate, this particular harvest stood apart from others of its type with its display of delicate, well-integrated, strong notes of cassis fruit. A distinctive wine unique to this distinctive terroir, it is available only at the Desert Hills Wine Shop.
But of course the desert, much like wine, is ever changing. Once construction is complete Desert Hills will be launching a new bistro on site. Built alongside the estate’s Syrah vineyard, patrons can take shelter from the desert heat in the shaded patio area, look out over a vista of vineyards and watch the fall harvest and crush in style with a glass of a truly unique Cabernet Sauvignon.
2014 Mirage
A Bordeaux-style red blend that breaks from the traditions of Bordeaux. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec with a touch of Syrah is bold in every sense of the word, mixing an earthy note to the full body with a savoury finish.
2014 Petit Verdot
Distinguished by its royal purple colouring and a richly fruitful nose, this beloved red greets you with an aroma of violets and ripe fruit, and follows on the palate with prominent blackberry notes. The small lot selection of this varietal means that it will be mostly reserved for Desert Hills wine club members.
pictured: Owner Randy Toor and his family are excited about the construction of the new outdoor kitchen/restaurant.