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Blue Grouse Reserve Pinot Noir

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The Blue Grouse Estate Winery in the Cowichan Valley of Vancouver Island has an 8.5-acre producing vineyard, 6.5 acres planted in 2017, and 20 acres planted in 2020 and 2021. The new Koksilah Vineyard, which has an additional 35 acres, will be planted in 2023 and 2024.

The Cowichan Valley sub-GI is roughly defined as the area between the Cowichan watershed, the eastern coastline from Mill Bay to Maple Bay and the western area of Cowichan Lake. The vineyards of the Cowichan Valley boast ideal conditions for popular grape varieties, including Pinot Noir.

Here is a brief review of Blue Grouse Winery’s first reserve Pinot Noir release.

Harvest 2021

Photo Credit – Blue Grouse Estate Winery

“Our growing degree days were higher than historical in the Cowichan Valley, contributing to the great quality of fruit, so we are excited about the wines for this vintage. The picking was condensed due to impending rain events in September and early ripeness.

Some challenges included finding enough people to be part of our picking crews, as there was a labour shortage this season.  But our leaner vineyard team was able to work efficiently and pick all 30 tons of grapes before the rain set in.”

Bailey Williamson – Winemaker

Winemaking

This is the inaugural reserve Pinot Noir—a blend of tradition and innovation. Crafted through foot-treading and clay aging and sourced from two esteemed Cowichan Valley sites. The wine was aged in a barrel for 18 months. 

Alcohol 12% / pH 3.56/ TA 5.8 / RS 0.5

Tasting Notes

Blue Grouse Reserve Pinot Noir and Osso Buco
Blue Grouse Reserve Pinot Noir and Osso Buco

A classic Island Pinot Noir from the Cowichan Valley. Pale and transparent in colour with medium body and bright acidity. The pinot opens with vibrant aromas of cherry, rose petals and baking spices. The flavours are led by slightly sour cherry, cranberry, and pomegranate with rainforest floor, cinnamon and nutmeg notes. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, adding to the flavour, complexity, and captivating long finish. 93 Points.

Here is the link to purchase Blue Grouse wines.

For information on other Blue Grouse wines, see – Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Quill new releases.