Tannat 2017
The Grapes
The Tannat grape is a robust and intense red grape variety that originates in the Madiran region of France and has also migrated into the vineyards of Uruguay. Due to the intensity of flavour and the high levels of tannin, it has been traditionally used for blending. As a result of a little viticultural experimentation, Moon Curser was the first winery to plant Tannat in the Okanagan in 2005 at its Home Vineyard in Osoyoos. We have discovered that the vine responds very well to the microclimate of the Osoyoos East Bench where our sandy soils mitigate the excessive tannins and create a complex, intriguing and age-worthy wine.
Tasting Notes
The 2017 vintage showcases the characteristics our Tannat is known for: age-worthiness, mouth filling and full-bodied character with a powerful yet approachable tannin structure, and uncommon concentration of flavour. Our 2017 Tannat is aged two years in bottle prior to release to allow the boisterous nature of this rare red variety to rest. The wine is deep ruby in colour and boasts a dark aroma profile of black olives, orange rind and clove. This is a rich wine with stunning texture and depth. The oak and fruit tannins are firm without being aggressive, while acid levels keep this rich and flavourful wine lively and fresh. Although this wine drinks well now, we expect it will continue to benefit from aging over the next ten years at least.