2023 Stratus Gamay [Member Request]

Added by special member request. Has not been tasted by Carl yet.

Aged 238 days in old neutral French oak barrels | 30% fermented and aged in Tava amphora

The weather in 2023 played a crucial role in shaping the vintage in the Niagara Peninsula. A mild winter followed by a warm spring led to an early bud break, raising hopes for an abundant harvest. However, the summer brought some unexpected challenges, including sporadic heatwaves and intermittent, heavy rainfall. Winemakers had to closely monitor their vineyards to mitigate potential issues such as disease and uneven ripening.

The careful management of the vines, coupled with the utilization of advanced viticultural practices, ensured the grapes reached optimal maturity. Conditions for harvest were quite favourable, with a broad window of opportunity to bring in grapes, ideally suited to the many varieties in our vineyard.

September was dry and reasonably warm, compared to the previous year and these conditions continued through the finish of harvest. Accordingly, fruit quality was excellent.