WTN: Gravel Force

[Jenise]

2017 Blue Mountain Pinot Noir Gravel Force Block 14 Okanagan Valley
A PnP last night from what is arguably the Okanagan's best pinot noir producer still in operation. It was just me home alone so I only had one glass, but: Polished dark ruby red color. Highly attractive cool-climate, lightly herbaceous nose with more than enough spicy cherry fruit and a precise mineral edge leading into a lasting finish. At almost ten years old, it's in that perfect place between savory and sweet, and it has a legit sense of place: this pinot is closer to an alpine style and would never be mistaken for Burgundy, California or Oregon. we'll see how it fares over the coming days, but right off the bat I couldn't be happier.

I have six vintages of that wine along with the other single vineyard offerings they had, but I haven't yet popped a cork on them - thanks for the note - it sounds promising!

[Jenise]

Bill, I have three vintages thanks to you. (You offered more but as Bob's illness was progressing, it quit making sense to add to what I had). Reviewing my notes on my initial trial of the 17s, I see that, back when, I thought this was the most open and forward of the three. Don't know if that still holds up, but this wine, now, is one you should pop a cork on.

This one had me realizing how many wines I drink are merely serviceable or even just interesting vs. how few evoke an almost involuntary 'ooh' every time I take another sip--this is definitely the latter. No point waiting for a better day, it's here.

Great note on what sounds like a great wine. No idea if it's anything I'd ever be able to find, but it makes me happy just to know somebody's getting that kind of enjoyment out of it!

I think that was the first year they started with the single vineyard wines?

[Jenise]

John, yes I think so.

And a note to Bill, since you own these: It's best day was day one. 2nd day nice enough, 3rd day didn't taste, 4th day oxidation had set in. Drink in the next year.

Sounds like good wine lunch material! I'll bear that in mind!

[Jenise]

You don't need to wait for a lunch, pour one for your darling wife!