Tasting Note –This is very much a reflection of the less ripe vintage in Niagara, but it is also a great expression of Thirty Bench’s Small Lot premium series in terms of flavour intensity and depth. It pours paler than many. The nose is very lifted with classic red currant/raspberry fruit, red rose, pimento, fresh basil/thyme and finely integrated oak spice. Very herbal. It is medium weight, almost lithe in feel and quite elegant. Less structured than other vintages, but so flavourful. The tannins are quite fine. The length is outstanding. Ready to enjoy now to 2032.

Backgrounder – Thirty Bench was one of the original wineries on the Beamsville Bench, founded as a landmark riesling producer in 1980.  It was purchased in 2005 by Andrew Peller Ltd, with cabernet franc becoming more of a focus thanks to its relatively warm site. In 2015, the same year that winemaker Emma Garner took the helm as head winemaker, the Small Lots Cabernet Franc took Best of Show honours at the Decanter World Wine Awards. It has become the lead red variety at Thirty Bench in a range that also includes the Winemakers Cabernet Franc ($24) and Wild Cask Cabernet Franc ($50) which is also highly recommended.

Accolades – Silver Medal Decanter World Wine Awards