wine review: Checkmate 2021 Little Pawn Chardonnay 

Ottawa, ON

December 2024

Matt’s review:

Checkmate 2021 Little Pawn Chardonnay 

With each vintage CheckMate further demonstrates their exceptional winemaking artistry highlighting the great potential of the impressive vineyards they work with to craft their world-class wines.  While 2021 brought unprecedented challenges during the growing season, the team at CheckMate delivered the consistent high-quality standard of wine they’re renowned for.  Little Pawn is a blend of Chardonnay clones 76 and ‘Dekleva’ sourced from the Jagged Rock Vineyard in the Okanagan Highland foothills along the Black Sage Bench.  

An elegant light gold colour, the nose shows an alluring bouquet of orchard fruit, mingling with subtle tropical notes and zesty citrus. Aromas of luscious baked apple and a touch of lemon custard dance harmoniously, while hints of sea shells create a fascinating mineral complexity — a nod to the vineyard’s glacially-formed sandy and gravelly soils. On the palate, Little Pawn reveals its true character. The initial sip reveals a delightful explosion of flavors, showcasing the fresh tension brought by the clone 76 vines. Each layer unfolds with creamy elegance, enveloping the senses in a divine texture. The interplay of fragrant fruit and refined structure is beautifully balanced, with fine tannins that add to the textured finish. The wine’s finish is long and expressive, persisting for minutes.  Little Pawn delivers an impressive harmony of freshness, richness, and complexity, making it a standout in the realm of Okanagan Chardonnay.  It’s a stunning expression of the Okanagan’s potential, and despite the challenges of the vintage, it beautifully showcases the great terroir and talent responsible for crafting this world-class wine.  Tasted bottle #3213 December 2024.  96+ points.  Matt Steeves – http://www.quercusvino.ca 

Available winery-direct