I had this one at the iYellow Pinot event. I had not heard of the Meunier so I was interested to try it. Garnet in color with a nose very similar to pinot noir with some rustic notes coming through but little to no earthy smells. On the mid pallet the wine is smooth, well balanced with the oak and tannins well under control. If you were to compare this to a pinot noir it is a well made one. None of the distinctive “barn yard” smells or flavors or earthyness coming through. This would be a VERY food friendly wine. I would give it a solid 89. $17.95 which for my tastes is a good deal!
From the winery’s web site:
Product Description
Much like its very close cousin Pinot Noir, this dark cherry coloured Pinot Meunier expresses a lacy, youthful, complex berry character underpinned by a solid tannin structure and a bright seam of acidity. Our winemaker Brian Schmidt is embracing this variety as it is far more reliable and consistent that its often “psycho” mirror image, Pinot Noir. Brian is very happy with this inaugural offering but as is his nature he is far more interested in pushing the envelope, “exploring the potential of this unique varietal within the dynamic frame of Niagara.”
Appellation: Niagara Escarpment
Varietal: 100% Pinot Meunier
Alcohol Percent: 13.0%
LCBO Sugar Code: 0
Residual Sugar g/L: 9.4 g/L
Brix at Harvest: 22.1 oBx
Total Acid g/L: 6.60 g/L
Cases Produced: 525
Drinking Through: Now – 2015
Oak Treatment: 4 months
Service Temp.: 15 – 17 oC
Bottle Size(s): 750ml
Decanting: 15 minutes using the “slip” method
down the inside of the decanter side wall.
