2015 Poetica Red

2015 was a moderate and warm growing season, something that Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot do well in.  Each variety was hand harvested separately, hand sorted, and fermented with naturally occurring wild yeast.  CS was fermented in 5 T fermenters with delestage while the PV was fermented in "The Pig" with punchdowns, then, post-pressing sent to barrels for aging.  After 18 months of aging, individual barrels were tasted, assessed and blending to produce the best blend.  After bottling, this wine rested in bottle for over 12 months prior to release.

Michael Godel - 94 Points - Wine Align
"Poetica shines with dramatic effusive light, radiant as a by-product of what its controlled power emits and even more so by how it teases at such a youthful time in its life. Approximately two-thirds cabernet sauvignon meets petit verdot head on and they get together seamlessly so that the quotient acts as a whole, seamless, integrated and in the end varietal matters little. This is one of Niagara’s great chic reds, with amazing acidity and style inscribed throughout the book of what will surely be a very long life. Drink 2021-2031.  Tasted November 2019."

Sara d'Amato - 94 Points - Wine Align
"A very aromatic style offering notes of graphite, violets and blue fruit. Tannins are still quite chalky. A very compelling and dynamic wine with a youthful character. A blend of 72% cabernet sauvignon, 28% petit verdot aged in 50% new french oak. Mouth-filling but not heavy with a substantial degree of flavour and complexity. Natural fruit spice adds dimension to the palate. Still tightly wound. There is nothing underripe or green to this very expressive blend. Excellent length. Best 2021-2024."

Richard Hemming - 94 Points
"Gorgeous cassis and menthol nose. Drinkable tannic tenderness. Long and brisk on the finish, with a spicy oak flavour that emerges alongside the ripe, powerful fruit. Finishes with a pinch of cut herbs and tomato leaf. Great length and persistence. Just keeps on going! Modern, yet staunchly savoury."