The awards keep coming in for Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery.
Chardonnay
Their unoaked Chardonnay won Double Gold and Best of Class at the prestigious 2018 Indy International Wine Competition (IIWC). This Chardonnay, made only in stainless steel, enjoys a slow-cool fermentation and a drawn-out sur lie process. (Sur lie is a process developed in Burgundy in which the aging wines aren’t filtered but kept in contact with dead yeast cells.) The process adds a gorgeous complexity and creamy feel to this wine. On the palate, there are hints of pear and pineapple. Light, almost translucent with a gold sheen, there’s an unexpected weight to this wine; a subtle, harmonious fullness.
Auxerrois
The estate’s 2017 Auxerrois won a Gold and a Best of Class at IIWC. This rare white grape, named for a town in the Burgundy region of France, was first introduced to BC in the seventies by a researcher and has since flourished. However, the availability of the plants was not widespread. Luckily, the Gehringers managed to obtain cuttings of the research plants. Nowadays their offspring thrive on the Golden Mile. A mature, intriguing wine, the Auxerrois exposes itself slowly. It’s captivating, with flavours of melon and passionfruit, and perfect for gatherings where there’s a range of palates.
Merlot
The Gehringer Brothers’ 2016 Merlot is also making a splash competitively. It won a Gold at IIWC. Grown in the heart of Canada’s desert, identified by its distinctive microclimate and rocky soils, this Merlot has the presence of a heavier red with a balance of fruit flavours that give it a marvellous drinkability and finish. It’s smooth, with flavours of Okanagan cherries, plum and rich cassis. It’s food-friendly and pairs well with hearty meals or comfort foods like a favourite dark chocolate. It’s also delicious on its own, enjoyed with a good book and company.