Thanks to a mild 2022-23 winter, yields in 2023 were high and spring was warmer than usual, with some of the warmest weather of the year in May and early June. The summer that followed was characterized by an abundance of rain that led to a lack of heat and sun, thus slowing fruit development and increasing disease pressure. Luckily once September arrived, temperatures increased and the rains stopped, which ultimately saved the quality of the vintage. Although disease pressure had been mitigated, lack of ripeness from the summer rains still forced a later than usual harvest date for most varieties.

Our Riserva Rosso reimagines Canadian red wine with a masterful blend of bold varietals and the opulent sweetness of naturally frozen grapes. The result is a wine that bridges tradition and innovation, reflecting the creative spirit of the Pillitteri family and our winemaking team. The nose is rich and inviting, with aromas of blackcurrant, stewed plum, and red cherry compote layered with hints of sweet tobacco, clove, dried fig, and a subtle note of dark chocolate. These intense aromatics are lifted by the late harvest component, which adds a graceful touch of berry liqueur and floral warmth. On the palate, Riserva Rosso is plush yet structured, with ripe, velvety tannins and a supple mid-palate that doesn’t come across as sweet as you might expect given the dessert wine in the blend. Instead, the interplay between the dry red blend and the residual sweetness creates a seamless balance of depth, fruit, and finesse.

Technical Information:

Appellation: VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake

Blend: 35% Cabernet Franc, 35% Merlot, 15 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc Select Late Harvest

Alcohol: 13.0% ABV

Residual sugar: 14.1g/L

Aging: 6 months in old French oak

750ml bottle | Red Wine, Vin Rouge