Short Hills Bench Special

Home turf for Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery is the Niagara Peninsula’s Short Hills Bench growing region. But what’s so special about this VQA classified sub appellation?  Considered a cool climate wine growing region, it has been identified for its distinguishing characteristics of soils, typography and micro-climate.  Located on the Niagara Escarpment, it is basically a plateau made up of very gently rolling hills. The soils are silt, loam and clay based that force the vine’s roots to drive deep to search for nutrients and water, a real benefit especially during dry growing seasons. Breezes from Lake Ontario create good air flow. Combined with ample sunshine and heat, the growing season is long and protracted allowing the grapes to grow and ripen at a leisurely pace. This allows the grape’s natural sugar levels and acidity to become more naturally aligned. Good water drainage is provided by the valley of 12 Mile Creek and smaller streams. Pinot Noir, known as the “heartbreak grape” due to its finicky nature, has found its home here. This top tier reserve bottling is even more special as the grapes hail from their Old Farm Block with the plants averaging 25 years of age. Hand picked with low yields, the berries are moved by gravity while the winemaking emphasizes gentle handling using only free run juice. European oak aging for ten months brings out a multitude of red fruits, cassis and vanilla in the bouquet. The mouth feel is elegant with long lingering notes of berries and spices. Rick VanSickle awarded it 93 points.

While a few more years of bottle aging will allow the wine to develop more complexity and depth, it can be enjoyed now. Decant for half an hour and serve with barbequed smoked sausages.  

2023 Henry of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Pinot Noir LCBO #657874, $47.95