A good Pinot Noir from Pelee Island…
Our interest in Pinot Noir continues to grow and this reserve offering from Pelee Island Winery reminds us why. The initial bouquet gave us grilled meat, lots of spices, and alcohol, anything but what one would expect from the varietal. With some time to breathe, however, we enjoyed more classic notes of raspberry, forest floor, and savoury spice of the wine, although the alcohol lingered.
In the mouth, this medium-bodied red, offered medium, sharp tannins, high acidity, and more raspberry notes, as well as sour red currants, dry wood, and a hint of green pepper. The sour, drying finish completed the experience.
The bottle comes across as a mix of a turn-of-the-century Victorian style and what one might see at an amusement park.
We could see this wine pairing very well with poultry, pork, lamb, or veal, as well as with cream-based dishes. At $17.95, this reserve Pinot Noir offers good value for the money.
Rating (from 70 to 100): 85/100
Value: 3.5/5
The Bottle Details…
Name: Pinot Noir Reserve
Vintage: 2014
Producer: Pelee Island Winery
Region/Country: VQA Ontario
Grape Varietals: Pinot Noir
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Consumed: During an Easter gathering with family.
Recommended By: Purchased it from the LCBO at the Stockyards in Toronto.
Cost: $17.95 CAD.
Bottle Presentation: Clean, somewhat busy label reminiscent of an amusement park. It also had a turn-of-the-century Victorian style.
The Tasting Details…
Appearance: Pale garnet
Nose: Initially, we had grilled meat and spices, including savoury spice and black pepper. As it opened, we enjoyed more of the classic Pinot Noir hose, with raspberry, forest floor (wet leaves and wet earth), and more savoury spice. The alcohol remained noticeable, which we found surprising given the offering’s 13.5% alcohol content.
Taste: A dry, medium-bodied red, with high acidity and medium, sharp tannins. Prominent flavours included raspberry, red currant, and dry wood. We also had a tinge of green pepper, a taste we typically associate with Cabernet Franc.
Finish: A medium, sour, drying finish.