• The following Closson Chase, pinot gris was sourced from single-vineyard, premium, hand-picked fruit in the prestigious Four Mile Creek appellation—grapes were quickly whole-berry pressed and saw no oak.
Closson Chase ‘K.J. Watson Vineyard’ Pinot Gris 2016
VQA Four Mile Creek $22.95 12.0% alcohol
This showcases, deft balance, persistent purity of fruit, depth, complexity and a gorgeous finish. A slight spritz when poured, this offers up aromas of honeysuckle, wisps of spice and chalky/mineral bits on the nose. It bathes the palate with a medium-weight, slightly viscous stream of pure ambrosia with ripe peach and pear interwoven with lemony tang. It finishes in a blaze of replays; crisp, refreshing and lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)
• The following Closson Chase limited-production, single-vineyard, estate-grown, PEC chardonnay was sourced from low-yielding fruit – 1 tonne per acre – whole-cluster pressed, 100% barrel fermented with full malolactic conversion, maturing 16 months in 100% French oak barrel with a scant 10%, new. Only 236 cases were produced.
Closson Chase ‘Closson Chase Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2015
VQA Prince Edward County $29.95 12.5% alcohol
Mineral/flinty notes mingle with baking spice aromas on the nose of this spice-laden beauty. It strides confidently across the palate with tart lemon curd, green apple, peach, peach skin and piquant spice all clamouring for attention. It’s early on, but already makes its mark with bold flavours, purity of fruit and lengthy balanced and beautiful aftertaste. Another 4 to 6 months in bottle and this will really strut its stuff. Drinking well now after a 20-minute aeration/decant, even better 2018 – 2020. (Vic Harradine)
Closson Chase ‘K.J. Watson Vineyard’ Pinot Noir 2015
VQA Niagara River $34.95 12.0% alcohol
Bright, lively red cherry and spice-laden red licorice aromas precede a lighter-styled wash of red currant and pie cherry flavours framed by tangy acidity and underpinned by soft, approachable tannin and wisps of cherry pie filling. It’s nicely balanced, smooth and mellow with plenty of style and charm to go with the lengthy, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. Grilled cedar-planked salmon or smoked, grilled duck breasts pair well. (Vic Harradine)