Meyer Family Vineyards will release two excellent wines from the 2023 vintage in the next few months.
Before going to the tasting notes, here are Chris Carson’s comments on the challenges of the 2023 growing season.
2023 Harvest
The 2023 growing season was an interesting one that started in early November 2022 when we abruptly shifted from late summer to winter. Following frigid temperatures in December, we went into 2023 with some apprehension. While our Pinot Noir seemed to fare quite well, our Chardonnay was significantly down. Bud break happened normally for our vineyards in early May, after which we experienced an intense growth period. Vine growth was quite advanced by early June, and we were ahead of a typical season. Flowering was three weeks ahead of the previous year. Veraison began the last week of July. We prepared for an early harvest, which started on September 5th.
While our crop was light, the quality was exceptional. The flavours and acid balance were excellent, some of the best we’ve had here at Meyer.
Meyer Gewürztraminer 2023
Cropped at only two Tonnes per acre from the estate McLean Creek Road Vineyard.
Alcohol 13.5 % / pH:3.52 / TA 5.5 / RS 6
Classic Gewürztraminer aromas of lychee and honeysuckle. It is a refreshing wine with flavours of yellow peach, honey and Meyer lemon. The mouthfeel is textured and balanced with a touch of minerality on the finish. It is a beautifully aromatic, food-friendly wine. 91 Points.
Meyer “B” Field Blend Pinot Noir 2023
For the “B” Field Pinot Noir, four clones are used. Three Dijon clones (115, 667, 777) and a cutting taken from the block designated “Old Block”, which is an unknown clone. The four clones were picked on the same day and co-fermented in the traditional field blend way. Aged in neutral French oak barrels for 11 months.
Alcohol 13.5 % / pH 3.68 / TA 6.0
Ruby red with aromas of strawberry and earthy undertones. A medium-bodied Pinot Noir with flavours of cherry, strawberry, cranberry, forest floor and a touch of oak. A smooth, easy-drinking Pinot with soft tannins, a well-balanced wine with good length, intensity and concentration. 92 points.
Here are the links to buy these premium wines – Meyer Family Vineyards website and for information on the earlier vintage Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer.