My visit to Back 10 Cellars was long overdue. I have been told by many people that I had to make the stop to try the Cabernet Franc. It was nice to find that there was more to Back 10 than just the Cab Franc. The small focused portfolio is something we are seeing a lot more of from wineries in the province. People are planting varietals that they know are suited to the soils and the quality of the wines are great.
2014 Big Reach Riesling – ****+ – $22.95 – A nice mineral note on the nose on top of lemon and apple. Beautifully balanced with just a hint of sweetness that peeks through nice acidity. Flavours of grapefruit are what dominate this wine with a nice mineral note the lingers on the finish.
2013 Rosé Coloured Glasses – **** – $18.95 – This blend of Merlot and Gamay is very dry. The nose is a little smoky and once you get into this wine you have watermelon and strawberry. The finish is nice a clean with good acidity. I would call this a serious rosé. This will make a great patio sipper. But it has the depth that it will stand up to just about anything you can serve off the barbeque.
2013 Blood Sweat and Years Pinot Noir – ****+ – $29.95 – This pinot was simply stunning. The nose was violet and lilac with very subtle cherry. I can’t remember that last time I had a Pinot Noir with a nose that was quite so floral. The flavours of ripe cherry are delicate and soft with great acidity on the finish. It would be a shame to pair this wine with anything. Enjoy this one on its own.
2013 Big Leap Cabernet Franc – **** – $28.95 – This is more proof we should be betting behind Cabernet Franc when it comes to great Ontario wine regardless of vintage. Simply put this wine is complex and elegant. There is a floral quality to the nose of this wine. In the mouth you have lots of Raspberry, Cherry, and Blackberry and just a touch of savory to the finish. The savory edge to this wine makes it perfect to pair with Red meat of all kinds. This needs to be paired with beef ribs finished on the barbeque.
