Serious single-vineyard wine from Haywire
Connoisseurs of concrete, the team at Haywire are serious about their minimalist approach to winemaking.
They introduced concrete vessels to their Summerland cellars in 2011, and have since expanded their use for fermentation and aging. The philosophy is to allow for the development of desirable texture and flavour, simultaneously bringing the fruit's character forward and avoiding influence from oak.
To highlight the house style, I am reviewing their 2021 Switchback Vineyard Pinot Gris.
Sourced exclusively from Haywire’s 10-acre organic Switchback plot, these Pinot Gris grapes were pressed as whole clusters, fermented and aged on lees (with stirring) for 11 months in concrete. The result, as intended, is a decidedly round, medium bodied wine with a richness not unlike the Alsatian style of this variety.
The colour is a pale sunset yellow. The nose is pretty hefty and packs a lot - I get things like beeswax, pear skin, wool, raw almond, and wet rock (it was aged in concrete after all!) On the palate there is a soft, round, richness not quite approaching an oaked Chardonnay but definitely more mellowed than stainless steel would yield. Flavours are gentle and more nuanced, with chrysanthemum tea and pear, while there is just enough acid to stretch out a pretty impressive finish. You’ll be licking your lips minutes after your last sip. For serious Pinot Gris aficionados, this one is for you. But let’s not be divisive - it’s for anyone who likes whatever’s in the glass.
This Pinot Gris will pair well with a variety of foods, likely best with roast chicken or turkey, smoked fish, or creamy pasta. Sour cream and onion chips or dill pickle popcorn would make for fun and easy snackuterie too.
Certified Local program
Haywire has just announced their Certified Local program for Okanagan residents. To learn more about the perks and get your hands on these interesting concrete-aged wines (at a discount!), click here.
Local perks include:
Book ahead of stop in for a free Flash Tasting (four wines) for you and up to 3 guests in the brand new lounge or on the patio
10% discount on any product, anytime
Early notice about special events and tastings
Join Haywire Club and receive a special gift on your second shipment
Open daily March 15-December 15, 11am-5pm.
Piece written by: Matt Tinney, contributor, uncorkBC
*Photo credit: Haywire Winery