The winter of 2021 was notably colder and wetter than those of 2019 and 2020. The wet, cool soils slightly delayed budburst, but the vines ultimately budded evenly. Spring conditions were drier than usual, with minimal wind during flowering, resulting in a healthy crop set after three years of limited yields. From January to March, the ripening phase was warmer, punctuated by an unusual two-day heat wave at the end of January. Some well-drained sites experienced heat and drought stress, which is rare in Elgin. Fortunately, the clay-rich shale soils mitigated the effects of the warmer vintage, allowing for the harvest of optimally ripe grapes with lower sugar levels and good natural acidity.

While the typical Elgin oyster shell minerality is present, it is slightly less pronounced in this sunny vintage, allowing vibrant fruit aromatics to shine through. The nose features abundant tangerine, fresh apricot, and hints of green apple. On the palate, expect flavors of blood orange and yellow peach, with good weight and concentration balanced by refreshing cool-climate acidity that provides focus and length to the wine.

ANALYSIS: ALC 13% | RS 2 g/l | TA 7.3 g/l | pH 3.14