Story:

Pinot Gris has quickly become one of the staple varietals of Rosehall Run, as well as the Prince Edward County region. Our initial planting of Pinot Gris in 2001, located in a small area of our North Block, affectionately referred to as The Toy Box, represents some of the oldest Pinot Gris vines in PEC. These initial experimental plantings proved to be a success, and a more substantial planting of Pinot Gris was done in our West Block during 2013. Pinot Gris has taken well to the difficult County climate and is fast becoming one of most consistent bottlings in our portfolio.

Vineyard:

Our estate Pinot Gris is sourced from the 1.5 acre planting in our West Block, along with our initial 2001 test planting. As is usually the case, our 2022 Estate Pinot Gris kicked off our table wine harvest for the season and completed on September 18th. The yield was modest compared to previous harvests; approximately 2.1 tons of fruit were picked at ideal ripeness and immediately moved to our winemaking facilities for de-stemming and pressing.

Growing Season:

The vineyard experienced a long, warm growing season in 2022 which allowed for perfect maturity and rich varietal expression. The unseasonably cold winter that was detrimental to the Niagara crops in the ’22 vintage affected PEC less because we cover/bury our vines yearly. Nevertheless, Rosehall Vineyard’s ’22 crop would be considered a short crop by average standards. PEC was also less affected by the late fall rains that plagued the Niagara region which led to more concentrated fruit and easier picking decisions.

Harvest:

Late September saw damp weather that soon gave way to a warm fall perfect for harvest. Yields were lower this season, especially compared to the bumper crop of 2021, but the quality of fruit proved to be outstanding. We enjoyed a smooth and relaxed harvest which allowed Dan and Lee to make some precision choices leading to impeccable results.

Winemaking:

The Pinot Gris was initially fermented in stainless steel, as well as 2 neutral French oak barrels. The stainless-steel portion, and one barrel were inoculated with different yeast selections for a two-week fermentation, while the second neutral barrel was left to start fermenting spontaneously. This spontaneous fermentation was completed slowly after a six-week period, helping to preserve the fresh fruit characteristics of the varietal. After initial fermentation, the wine was left to rest for 3 months with only periodic batonnage.

Tasting Notes:

Tangy and fresh, with a fruity profile of peaches, apricots, and fresh lemon. Finishes refreshing and dry, with a touch of County minerality. Ideal for light seafood dishes and salads, especially those featuring a fruit component.

Harvest Date: September 18, 2022

Bottling Date: March 2, 2023

Cases Produced: 150

Residual Sugar: 2g/L

Total Acidity: 6.6

Ph: 3.17

Drink now through 2025 for a crisp, fresh style, but has hold until 2028 for aging.