2013 Allegretto ‘Pie Franco’ Merlot

2013 Allegretto ‘Pie Franco’ Merlot

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We celebrate the fact that we make wine in a region where vintage variations play an important role. Atypical growing seasons are a nightmare for commercial wineries interested in making consistent but boring wines. For us, however it defines our interest in wine. We look forward to seeing what Mother Nature gives us to work with each year. It is the effects of each vintage on the finished wine that urges us to start verticals of our favorite wines then follow their evolution and discuss their merits at tastings with friends.

The Allegretto or a ‘medium-brisk and playful tempo’ is a very special single vineyard wine we call a true Merlot. The vines are planted on their own rootstock (pie franco) in white silica sand (what glass is made out of). Each and every vintage we are rewarded with a trueness and transparency in the flavour that is not seen elsewhere. We also believe the white silica sandy soil of this vineyard contributes to the elegant style of this wine.

Our 2013 Allegretto is as the name suggests, a medium bodied playful red. A wine that caresses the palate as opposed to forcing itself on you. Integrated tannins and a melange of red and black fruit approach you politely in poise. Cocoa notes, sage leaves, wild mountain herbs mingle with fruit and earthy notes.  The 2013 vintage as in the past continued to give us a special Merlot but one with more immediate appeal upon release thanks to the overall character of the 2013 vintage.

 

Please note prices do not include applicable taxes or bottle deposit (PST 10% and GST 5%)

Slideshow Items

  • 91 Points

    Allegretto is a single-vineyard Okanagan Valley merlot with great intentions, to play at a pace slower than allegro but faster than andante, with interdiction and also grace. You really need to mull over this merlot with great concentration because there is a marker in the sand, as there has to be with merlot. “No one sees it ’cause the sand has covered over all the messages it kept, misunderstanding, what original truth was and out expanding.” On one side it is a pearl, of phenols ripe and so very happy. On the other there is massive concentration, extraction and a density as if it were jam. Where the marker might be there is savour, umami even, unheard, heralded or here ushered from sandy soil and ungrafted vines growing of their own volition. But it is these vines, their grapes and the deft hand of the maker that seem to know what it is that needs to be heard. La Stella’s merlot finds a lightness of being within its quick tempo, in other words it’s a beautifully balanced big red. “With the living, let, what is living, love.” Drink 2017-2022.

    Michael Godel Tasted: April 2017