Technical Notes:
Residual Sugar 0g/L
Alcohol/volume: 12.5%
Brix at Harvest: 21.5
Total Acidity:  6.2g/L
Aging in Oak: 12 months
Release Date: December 2008
Ageability: 5-7 years

VQA DESIGNATION
Niagara River

$25.95 (+0.20 bottle deposit)

Vintage Year and Viticulture:
The winter of 2005/2006 was fairly mild in comparison to recent winters with no major cold spells. With a considerable amount of rain throughout the summer in conjunction with seasonally higher summer temperatures, the end result was an exceptional growing season. With harvest around the corner, September and October brought cooler temperatures and an increase in precipitation. There were few times where we had more than 3 -¬ 4 days without rain. Sunny breaks in October and early November along with warm temperatures, allowed the grapes to complete their ripening and harvest proved to be fruitful with excellent Brix levels and high acidity. This lot of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested from Reif Estates 125 acre Vineyard located adjacent to the Niagara River, midway between Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment. The grapes were harvested Nov. 15, 2006, with Brix levels at 21.5 degrees.
 
Winemaker’s Notes:
The juice pressed from clean, ripe fruit and underwent fermentation on its skins for 17 days, using selected yeast. Oak barrel fermentation and aging in French and Hungarian barriques for 12 months adds complexity to this rich red wine. This wine also underwent complete malolactic fermentation and was 100% estate grown and bottled.

Tasting Notes:
On the nose are complex, intertwining notes of spice, blackberry and cocoa that will further evolve with cellaring.  The palate demonstrates generous berry and black cherry flavours, followed by a subtle cassis fruit and spice on the finish.

Food Pairings:
Roasted leg of lamb, filet mignon with wild mushrooms and strongly aged cheddar and other hard cheeses.

In the news:
Each year members of Provincial Parliament gather to select the Legislative Assembly of Ontarios red and white VQA wine to be served at all official functions. Wines were tasted by members at the annual wine tasting event which was held this year on November 5, 2008. This year Reif Estates 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve was selected as the 2008/2009 assembly red.

From the Critics:

This well-made cabernet sauvignon delivers across the board. All the components speak to quality, and they’re nicely integrated to make a red that’s a great match for grilled or roasted red meats. The rich, complex and layered flavours are complemented by a broad seam of acidity that lifts them and adds a refreshing dimension. The tannins are firm and ripe, easily manageable now but also providing the support for another five years in the cellar. Rod Phillips, | Winepointer | March 11, 2009


$26.15