The Hidden bench 2008 Pinot Noir was one of my favorite Niagara Pinot Noirs. So I popped down to the winery to pick up this years for Christmas presents. Niagara wines can vary quite significantly. Garnet in color with a lovely pinot nose, some nice strawberry, red berries and rustic notes. On the mid pallet the wine displays some milder pinot flavors to match the nose. Red berries, strawberry and rustic flavors. On the medium finish the wine has some tannins, as well as some acidity. Compared to the 2008 this is a much milder pinot. I would give it an 89 or so. Not available at the LCBO but $38 at the winery. Unfortunately this one is no where as good. Quite disappointing 🙁
From the winery’s web site:
The first impressions on the nose with this wine are sour cherry, smoke and a rich concentration that reflect the 2009 vintage. A creamy, generous texture holds together the dark, savoury red fruits. Great structure and well concentrated with typical “cool-climate” Pinot Noir characteristic of earthy beetroot are highlighted with subtle pencil shavings. The Beamsville Bench is well expressed through this wine.
