Marynissen isn’t a winery that many people are talking about these days. I have heard from other writer and people about the glory days of the winery and how great the wines were in the 90’s.
Marynissen owns the oldest commercially planted Cabernet Sauvignon vines in the province. The winery has new ownership and the winemaking has been taking over by Gord Robert who was previously working at Stoney Ridge. I thought that it was at least worth a visit to see what is going on. I was pleasantly surprised by a few things I tasted.
2014 Unoaked Chardonnay – $13.00 (on sale) – Winery Only – ***1/2- This is a blend of Musqué and Chardonnay. There is nice field flower on the nose making this a little more interesting than your usual boring unoaked Chardonnay. Being blended down with Chardonnay keeps it from being too intense in the floral department. There is nice acidity on the finish. This will make a very interesting patio sipper or a great match for chicken or pork from the grill.
2014 Sauvignon Blanc – $17.00 – Winery Only – ***1/2+ – The fruit was harvested in three stages. This is as close to New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc as I have had the chance to try in Ontario. There is lots of Bell Pepper on the nose and in the glass. You also have gooseberry and lime with great acidity. If you’re a fan of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc this is definitely worth trying.
2013 Syrah – $25.00 – Winery Only – **** – I am a Syrah doubter… there is no secret about that. This is one of the best in the province right now. The fruit is jammy right on the nose. Strawberry, Plum, Blackberry and hints of smoke. There are nice meaty tannins on the finish of this wine. There are also hints of pepper and a nice smokiness to this wine. Syrah is definitely a reason worth stopping at Marynissen.
I am going to warn you this post is about to get very nerdy. Marynissen have bottled a series of Chardonnays by yeast strain. When making wine you have to be mindful of every past of the recipe. The fruit is the most important part but you also have to think about the yeast and barrels.
Marynissen Chardonnay Yeast Strains – $100.00 for 3 bottles in a collector box – **** – This is the perfect way to geek out with any wine lover. The differences in all three wines are very subtle but it will be fun to enjoy these side by side without food to see what you can taste.
