Let me get straight to the point here – there are a couple of Pinot Noir’s from Flat Rock that deserve your attention.
2018 Flat Rock Pinot Noir – Vintages 1545 – $21.95 – **** – The entry level from Flat Rock continues to be a benchmark for quality. I wouldn’t call this complex – but that’s not a bad thing. Sour cherry, and cherry with just a little bit of earthiness. This is a bottle I would grab to give anyone an introduction to Niagara Pinot Noir. Perfect for your pizza or pasta night without needing to be fussy about wine and food.
2016 Gravity Pinot Noir – Vintages 1550 – $34.95 – **** – There may be a few bottles of this kicking around the vintages shelves. Coming from the hot 2016 this shows how outstanding the winemaking team at Flat Rock really is. This is rich and a lot more earthy than the previous few vintages of this wine. While Gravity is always ready to be enjoyed the moment you get your hands on it – this may be the most cellar worthy vintage of this wine that I can remember. Expect this to evolve over the next decade while the damp, spring forest floor starts to pull away to reveal floral and cherry notes. A bit of decanting is what I would recommend if you decide to enjoy this now.
2018 Rusty Shed Chardonnay – Vintages 1552 – $26.95 – **** – I’m certain I’ve written these words before – but Flat Rock has done it again. The Rusty Shed is the benchmark for premium Chardonnay for the Niagara Peninsula – and a perennial reminder that this wine is always a little exciting. A bottle that differs greatly from vintage to vintage – but always delivers something tasty. This is a little more austere than the previous few vintages of this wine – the fruit profile skews towards lemon and apple with whispers of pear. On the mid-palate there is a bit of weight, but a little lighter than you may be used to from the Rusty Shed – but that’s not a bad thing. This may be the most food friendly version of this wine, and something that will evolve with grace over the next 3-6 years.
2017 Riddled Sparkling – $35.15 – **** – A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are what you will find in this bottle. Aromas of freshly baked bread with bright lemon notes. On the palate this opens up in a massive way – the ripeness of the fruit goes far beyond what the nose teases. You get layers of pear, golden delicious apple, vanilla, and citrus. Don’t let this ripe fruit fool you – the acidity is bright, crisp, and searing – just like you would expect from a great bottle of Ontario sparkling wine. Sealed with a crown cap means this can make itself at home in your cellar for a decade with ease.
