2022 Trail Estate Grimsby Hillside Vineyard Cab Franc 🔥 Exclusive Pre-Release 🔥 92+pts

I spent multiple days digging into that wine, finding from the start that there was a 'je ne sais quoi.' As the days went by, the wine got better and better, and that's when I found out the secret sauce: there's 14% Viognier in the blend!

Cab Franc Viognier co-fermented? Unusual, but wow, it goes together really well! Add in the 50% new French oak, and it gives you a rich and expressive wine. 100% of the fruits come from the iconic Grimsby Hillside Vineyard in Niagara, but made in Prince Edward County. That's another twist to the story of this delicious wine.

Aromas of strawberry and cream, maraschino cherry, mocha, and slight herbal notes. Truly appealing on the nose. On the palate, I was thrilled to discover some classic black forest cake, beautifully integrated oak, a nice spike of acidity from the 2022 vintage, and a nice spice on the finish adding layers. Fantastic all around!  (Carl Boucher, August 12, 2026). 

Only 60 cases made.

92+ points Carl's Wine Club | 93 points Rick VanSickle

ON, Niagara Peninsula, VQA Lincoln Lakeshore
86% Cabernet Franc, 14% Viognier | RS 3.2g/L | Dry | 13.2% ABV

Food pairings: grilled sausages, spaghetti & meatballs
Drink between: 2026 to 2030