2019 Gritstone Cabernet NEW RELEASE

Near the wine shop entrance, you'll find a Gritstone leaning against a tree. This rare, one piece gritstone is a original to the family estate and was used in the family gristmill to mill grain into flour. The mill was located at the lower east end of the property near the pond, utilising the 16 Mile Creek to drive it. The stone's enviable strength and longevity speak to the wine named for it. 

Tall, dark and handsome -- meet the new Gritstone Cabernet. Vinified from 100% estate grown Cabernet Franc. Barrel-aged 20 months in a selection of American and European oak. Notes of dry cedar, warm spice and dark chocolate on the nose perfectly complement the firm, dry palate with suggestions of plum and black currant. 

Sue-Ann Staff Gritstone Cabernet 2019 (90 points) — This 100% Cabernet Franc, named after a unique one-piece gritstone used by Staff’s ancestors to mill grain on the property. It’s barrel-aged for 20 months in a selection of American and European oak and has a bold and sassy nose of ripe cherry kirsch, blueberry pie, raspberry brambly, cedar and oak spice notes. It has grippy tannic structure on the palate and the fruits turn to darker berries of cassis, anise and blueberries with earthy notes, vanilla bean and spice on a finessed finished. Can cellar for a few years for better integration or pair with red meats and enjoy now. ~ Rick VanSickle, Wines In Niagara

 

Appearance: Deep purple colour.
Nose: Cedary, spicy nose of dark chocolate, plum and black currant.
Palate: Medium-bodied, dry, firmly structured flavours of red plum and black currant with oak notes and evident but mellow tannins on the finish.
Quality: Very Good+ / Outstanding. Hold 1 – 2 years.
Critic Rating: 89 – 91 points – Tony Aspler

 

“100% Cabernet Franc aged for 18 months in a selection of French, American, and Hungarian oak barrels. On the nose, fresh cherries, spice and woodsy aromas. The palate delivers a kinetic structure of firm tannins, energetic acidity, and poised dark fruit. Earth and a touch of smoke arrive on a lingering finish.” Score-92, Leah Spooner