2016 was an exceptional vintage for Niagara. It was extremely hot and dry with scorched lawns and headlands come June. As a result, red varieties thrived in the heat. The lack of precipitation led to smaller berries and great concentration. Arinna is a name given to one of our two Bordeaux-inspired blends. Named after a chief deity of the Hittite Empire in ancient Anatolia, Arinna was a sun-goddess for this civilization whose people were excellent winemakers. Our 2016 Arinna is a blend of 52% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Malbec all from our estate vineyard. While it’s meant to be crafted in a smooth and approachable style, the warmer years give way to excellent phenolic development and make these wines particularly age-worthy. Certainly not lacking for colour or aromatic concentration, this wine is certainly from a warmer vintage. The nose gives notes of blueberry, cassis, mixed berry pie, a sweeter perfume, and vanilla. The palate reveals more red fruit character of cranberry jam, pine tar, and baking spice. The tannins are soft but present and complement the exceptional length of the wine.
