Okanagan Trip Part 27, and it's a private tasting at Culmina

As far as I know, this is the only Napa-style private tasting that you can book in the Okanagan. For only $10/person, you get the place to yourself and you get to taste most of their portfolio. It's a limited portfolio at this point, as they are focused on quality over quantity.

You get more than just a wine tasting though, as your guide will go in depth into all aspects of the winemaking process. We even got a tour of the barrel room which is always fascinating.

Culmina 2014 Unicus ($25.00)

The first Gruner Veltiner in the Okanagan and it's simply terrific. Aromas of peach, lemon and minerality. Peach dominates the palate with just a touch of white pepper and herbs. I even think I sense a tad of tangerine in there as it finishes. The worst thing about this wine is it always sells out early and when I have some I can't keep from drinking it all. 91.






Culmina 2014 Decora ($20.00)

An intensely focused Riesling with aromas of citrus and slate. The palate features hints of peach, green apple and nectarine, with impressive minerality. Very dry and very good. 89.








Culmina 2014 Saignée ($22.00)

(62% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon)

This absolutely bone-dry Rosé features herbaceous and minty notes on the nose. The palate might notice some strawberry and touches of grapefruit. So dry it's not a patio-sipping rosé but would go beautifully with a nice charcuterie plate. 87.





Culmina 2012 Hypothesis ($38.00)

Merlot (57%), Cabernet Sauvignon (24%), and Cabernet Franc (19%)

This big Bordeaux-style red features intense aromas of dark fruits with just a touch of spice. Flavors of chocolate, cocoa, plum and vanilla mingle together beautifully. Tannins are still strong; this is a young wine that will much improve with some proper cellaring, but oh, what potential. 91-94.





This was all we had the opportunity to taste at the winery, but at a future tasting back home we got a chance to taste their 2nd red blend:

Culmina 2013 R&D ($22.00)

This Merlot-dominate blend features aromas of cedar and cherries. Full-bodied and juicy with flavors of blackberry, blueberry and a touch of vanilla. Very approachable now. 89.








There you have it, another terrific experience and one we won't miss on any Okanagan trips!

The Okanagan tour finally winds down with just two more reports: next up, a tasting at Tinhorn Creek!