Wine trip part trois, as usual, I'm up the Creek......

...Hester Creek to be exact. Interestingly, this was the first winery we left without buying anything, but it wasn't an indication of the quality of the wine; but most (if not all) of the stuff we tasted is readily available in our local VQA store, so there was no urgency....and let's face it, there is only so much room in the car!

No tasting fee for up to 5 wines. They were not tasting their big red, The Judge, on our visit.



2013 Trebbiano ($22.95)

Light and fruity with a hint of minerality, tropical fruit and some grapefruit on the palate. BC's only Trebbiano is a good one. 88.






2012 Chardonnay ($24.95)

Butterscotch and a touch of honey on the palate, leading to a lovely caramel and citrus palate. Nice long finish. 86.







2012 Late Harvest Pinot Blanc ($17.95)

Peach and apple notes roll longingly over the tongue. If you are one who likes their dessert wine a bit on the less-sweet side (unlike me!), this is an excellent choice. 86.






2012 Merlot ($18.95)

Cherries and plums dominate on the nose and palate. Silky mouthfeel, tannins are not quite softened yet. Another year or three in the bottle would only improve. 85.








2012 Cabernet Merlot ($18.95)

Blackberries with some blueberry on the nose. Flavors are a bit weak, with some plums and berries, but this could use a little more time to develop. 84.





2011 Reserve Cabernet Franc ($28.95)

Plums and raspberries dominate the nose. Some strawberry and a hint of dill join in on the palate. Drinking well now but would only improve with up to a decade in your cellar. 85.