VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake

Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Smillon

Tasting Note:

Refreshing with fine effervescence. Almost tropical fruit aromas of banana candy, lemon curd, jasmine, vanilla, and cream. Touches of bread dough, clove, white pepper, and green cardamom. The fine mousse dissipates quickly, but adds lovely creaminess to the palate. Fruity, but dry, with lingering yellow grapefruit peel in finish.

Vintage Report:

The weather in 2023 played a crucial role in shaping the vintage in the Niagara Peninsula. A mild winter followed by a warm spring led to an early bud break, raising hopes for an abundant harvest. However, the summer brought some unexpected challenges, including sporadic heatwaves and intermittent, heavy rainfall. Winemakers had to closely monitor their vineyards to mitigate potential issues such as disease and uneven ripening. The careful management of the vines, coupled with the utilization of advanced viticultural practices, ensured the grapes reached optimal maturity.

Conditions for harvest were quite favourable, with a broad window of opportunity to bring in grapes, ideally suited to the many varieties in our vineyard. September was dry and reasonably warm, compared to the previous year and these conditions continued through the finish of harvest. Accordingly, fruit quality was excellent.

The harvest at Stratus begin with Chardonnay for sparkling wine on September 9 and continued through December 8 for Cabernet Sauvignon. Grapes for Stratus Riesling and Red Icewine were picked on January 14, 2024.