The GOODS from Hester Creek Estate Winery

Oliver, BC | After a year of terrific buzz about the reserve Cabernet Franc wine from Hester Creek Estate Winery’s Block 3, the wine continues to draw accolades, as last week respected B.C. wine writer John Schreiner called it “a red that should be in the cellars of serious collectors of Okanagan wines.” This recognition comes following the prestigious Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in British Columbia Wines for the 2010 Reserve Cabernet Franc Block 3.

Used for centuries to add finesse to Old World red blends, here in B.C. Cabernet Franc stands all on its own, showcasing luscious plum, blackberry, cassis and spice characters. It’s a varietal that is perfectly at home in the alluvial soil of the Okanagan Valley’s Golden Mile bench, particularly in Hester Creek’s Block 3, where it consistently produces a wine of impressive structure and complexity. Winemaker Robert Summers — who arrived at Hester Creek in 2006 — was an early champion of it as a single varietal, and has produced it every year since.

Schreiner penned his approval after a vertical tasting of the Reserve Cabernet Franc vintages from 2005 to 2011, also writing that Hester Creek is now one of the best wineries in the Okanagan. Of the now-available 2011, Schreiner notes it has aromas of blackberry and raspberry, with flavours of blackberry and red currant. He adds, “this vibrant red should be cellared for another four or five years to allow it to develop toward its peak.” Learn more about how you can get your hands on the wine after the jump…

As with many of Hester Creek’s reserve series wines, the 2011 Reserve Block 3 Cabernet Franc is available in limited release — production was limited to 1,200 cases. It’s available onsite at the Hester Creek Hospitality Centre, in select restaurants and through the Hester Creek Bench Club. Suggested retail price is $28.95.

Bench Club Loyalty Program | Still searching for the perfect Christmas gift for the B.C. wine lover on your list? A case of Hester Creek’s exceptional wines will gain him or her entry to the Bench Club loyalty program (registration is required), and can still be delivered right to your door to arrive in time for Dec. 25. As well as loyalty points earned toward future purchases, membership in the Bench Club provides special offers, updates and sought-after pre-release opportunities.

About Hester Creek Estate Winery | Hester Creek Estate Winery has its roots deep in this province, with vines first planted in the alluvial soil of the Golden Mile Bench in 1968. Today, this estate vineyard produces wines that are a lively, intensely flavoured expression of the place it calls home. Learn more about the winery, the Hospitality Centre, Terrafina Restaurant and the Villa at Hester Creek at HesterCreek.com.

DETAILS

877 Road 8 (PO Box 1605) | Oliver, BC V0H 1T0
Telephone: 250-498-4435 or Toll Free 1-866-498-4435
Web: www.hestercreek.com | Facebook | Twitter

GALLERY

The People

Owner – Curt Garland
General Manager – Mark Sheridan
Winemaker – Robert Summers

About Hester Creek Estate Winery

Hester Creek Estate Winery is situated within some of British Columbia’s oldest vineyards in the bountiful Golden Mile region. The 95-acre, Mediterranean-influenced grounds, winery, and guest Villa evoke an old-world sense of tranquility. Discover winemaker Rob Summers’ fresh, lively wines that truly convey the extraordinary place where they were grown. Relax on the patio among the vines, browse in the wine shop or dine at Tuscan inspired, Terrafina. The Hester Creek guest centre offers tutored tastings, food and wine pairings, live music and BBQ lunches in the summer and cooking classes throughout the year. Having a private dining room, a private Tuscan patio and a demonstration kitchen all built for 12-14 guests, this is the perfect place for you next intimate gathering. Visit one of the world’s most recent and exciting wine discoveries. The South Okanagan Valley’s Golden Mile Bench and Hester Creek await guests’ arrival.