This, then, is Grimsby Hillside? But more specifically, the ‘Red Clay Barn Block’ of Grimsby Hillside. It is one of the most distinctive Chardonnays I’ve ever had in my whole wine life! The privilege is to try to understand and shepherd these terroir wines here in Niagara… A quiet but compelling nose of lemony apricot-like vanillin… which is astounding given that there is no new oak employed here. Viscous, almost Viognier-like clay texture on the nose…. In the mouth, the wine comes across clean, schisty yet ample, yet with lovely orchard fruit, and a slight, seductive yellow apple note over the trademark oiliness on the finish. As the vines grow older, and as we continue with the organics in this vineyard, we are starting to see a more grandiose, a more synthesized, integrated Red Clay Barn Block of Grimsby Hillside. Utterly unique!

A word from Mary: White flower on the nose; Apple compote on the mid-palate.

Drinking prime: Now – 2030

Best fruit window: 2027 – 2028

Cases produced: 21