Okanagan Trip, Part Deux, aren't we all a little Afraid of the Dark??

Off to Moon Curser as we figure we still have time to fit in a couple more wineries before we check in for our four nights at Spirit Ridge. Moon Curser has a large portfolio, a good portfolio, and maybe the best labels in the business.

But as I've said before, if the wine isn't good, the labels mean almost nothing.

A couple of the wines we tasted were the same vintage as we sampled last year (Arneis and Tempranillo; those reviews are here if you want to brush up) so I won't review the same one again. To the new stuff!

Moon Curser 2016 Afraid of the Dark ($19.04)

Traditional Rhone-style blend of Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne.

Pretty white flowers on the nose, joined by stone fruit. Palate features the same floral characteristics with hints of ginger and nectarine. 88.



Moon Curser 2016 Contraband Series Dolcetto ($23.39)

Unique in the Okanagan, I believe, this red is recommended to be served slightly chilled (which, really, ALL reds should be) and consumed young. Aromas of red cherry cola abound, with flavors of blackberry and black cherry, with just a touch of nuttiness. Very dry. 88.



Moon Curser 2015 Contraband Series Carmenere ($37.30)

Pleasant aromas of black cherry, strawberry and blueberry. The palate brings red cherry and a touch of spice, particularly on the mid-palate, and then a very long finish. Tannins are impressive, and this one will improve a lot with some more nap time. 90-92.

Between this one, the beauty we tasted earlier from Lariana, the stunner (coming up) from Black Hills, this varietal is really finding a niche in the Okanagan. I know there are a few more as well. Nice.



Moon Curser 2014 Syrah ($23.39)

Fruit forward nose, lots of red fruit, cherries, raspberries....the cherry really comes through on the palate as well. Juicy and ready to drink. 88.







Moon Curser 2013 Contraband Series Syrah ($27.74)

Very different than the above. Black fruit, mushroom and black pepper waft from the glass. Lots of black pepper sticks around on the finish, mingling with intense flavors of black cherry and mushroom. Finishes very long, this is the best Syrah they have made, IMO. 90.






Moon Curser 2014 Border Vines ($23.39)

40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Malbec, 20% Carmenere, 14% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot

Aromas of red cherry, dark fruit, vanilla and a hint of mocha. Juicy flavors of cherry, vanilla, clove, blueberry and blackberry. This is one of their signature blends and again I am going to say this is the best one they have made. 90.





Moon Curser 2014 Contraband Series Cabernet Sauvignon ($37.30)

You are going to hear me say this a lot during this trip report: 2014 is going to be the year that puts the Okanagan back on the map in terms of Cabernet Sauvignon. Beautiful aromas of mint, black cherry, blackberry, cassis and sage. Black fruits dominate the palate, but you'll notice hints of cola and earth as well. Juicy and delicious. 91.






Moon Curser 2013 Contraband Series Tannat ($37.30)

Dark berries, licorice and spice on the nose. Juicy cherries on the palate, with baking spices and dried cranberries. Lovely now but if you can wait a few years, should bring immense drinking pleasure. 91.



IMO, these guys have really upped their game in the past few years, and have gone from afterthoughts to a "must visit" on every trip up to that area. Really nice.

Next up: just before we get to check into our suite at Nk'Mip, we might as well taste some wine there while we are at it!!