Cabernet Franc — Grimsby Hillside Vineyard 2022, Trail Estate Winery

Description from the Producer

93 PTS, Rick VanSickle: “This was aged for 20 months in French oak barriques, with a 50-50 split between new and second fill barrels. 14% Viognier was added to the blend to brighten the palate and lift aromatics. Wow, this is so deep and layered on the both the nose and palate with aromas of brambly red berries, cassis, plums, floral notes, a touch of herbs and perfumed spices. It’s rich and concentrated on the palate with assertive structure, tannins, a bevy of ripe red berries, savoury herbs, plums and spice all leading to long, echoing, lifted finish. Can cellar this to 2032.” 92+ PTS, Carl Boucher: “There's 14% Viognier in the blend! Add in the 50% new French oak, and it gives you a rich and expressive wine. 100% of the fruits come from the iconic Grimsby Hillside Vineyard in Niagara. Aromas of strawberry and cream, maraschino cherry, mocha, and slight herbal notes. On the palate, beautifully integrated oak and a nice spice on the finish adding layers.” 91 PTS, David Lawrason: “This lively, lovely and quite elegant Cabernet Franc is from the renowned Grimsby Hillside Vineyard. Nicely fragrant with classic raspberry/currant fruit, red rose, pepper and barrel spice. There is excellent concentration, sour-edged slightly volatile energy. The tannins finely grippy. The length is excellent.” Hand harvested, destemmed and fermented naturally. Pressed after 3 weeks on skins. Aged in French oak barrels for 20 months and blended with a touch of Viognier to enhance the pure fruit aromatics. Bottled unfined and unfiltered with a minimal addition of sulphur. A nose akin to black forest cake, layers of chocolate with rich cherries and raspberries. The palate has a strong tannic backbone with a full mouthfeel, and the finish is interlaced with dark chocolate and kirsch. 2022 was a vintage with very limited quantities (55 cases); berries were small, resulting in more depth and concentration of flavour. Best enjoyed 2028-2032. VQA Twenty Mile Bench. Alcohol: 13.5%.