Wine review: Hester Creek Garland 2020, Golden Mile Bench, Okanagan Valley, BC

Ottawa, ON

January 2024

Matt’s review: Situated high up on Golden Mile Bench in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Hester Creek’s vineyards, including 50+ year old vines, produce expressive wines showcasing the greatness achievable in the Okanagan. Garland 2020 is a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petit Verdot, and 4% Malbec, hand harvested in late October to November 1, 2020, then cold soaked for 48 hours prior to fermentation. After 24 months in French oak barrels, it was bottled in mid May 2023, and when tasted 8 months later it’s showing beautifully. The nose is inviting, perfumed, and fresh. A complex bouquet of ripe dark fruit, plum, cassis, black sage, and graphite. Repeat on the palate with great concentration, integrated fine tannins, and a long refreshing and harmonious finish. If you enjoy premium Super Tuscan wines, I highly recommend trying this impressive expression of premium Golden Mile Bench wine. Tasted January 2024. 94 points. Matt Steeves – http://www.quercusvino.ca

Available winery-direct $65+ in 🇨🇦