Tasting Notes – This one of the most expensive syrahs in Canada, and a wine I have always held in high esteem. But this vintage is not quite as showy and detailed somehow.  To be sure, it is big, dense and balanced. The nose is very complex, with well integrated black cherry, ripe blackcurrant, pepper, charcuterie and sage. It is very full bodied, powerful and broad, and still showing some elegance. The alcohol at 14% is warming, tannic and chewy. The length is excellent. But just overall lacking some lift and elan at the moment. However, this could evolve very well. I have had impressive aged editions. So, if it’s in your cellar, hang in there. Last tasted July 2026

Backgrounder –  Quails’ Gate is an iconic, pioneering winery in West Kelowna, best known for robust chardonnay and pinot noir from the slopes of Mt. Boucherie. But unusually this far north in Canada syrah ripens on this same slope as well. Boswell, by the way, is the maiden surname of Rosemary Stewart, wife of founder Quails Gate founder Richard Stewart. This syrah was hand-harvested and destemmed directly into the tank. It was then cold soaked for five days to extract colour and structure; and fermented for two weeks with twice daily pump-overs. The free run juice (importantly) was racked into a mixture of new and old 350L and 500L French oak barrels to mature for 18 months. 

Accolades: Silver National Wine Awards 2026