(Nov. 14, 2012) — Pinot Noir is not called the heartbreak grape without reason. Delicate, thin skinned, and vulnerable to the vicissitudes of climate and disease, it was slow to arrive in Ontario vineyards. But a few pioneers saw the potential of the terroir to produce great Pinot and began the struggle. Then around the dawn of the new millennium a new force came on the scene – Le Clos Jordanne, which was a joint venture between Vincor and the Burgundian house of Boisset. They were savvy enough to recruit Thomas Bachelder as wine maker. Thomas brought considerable experience of wine making, in Burgundy and Oregon, married to a real passion for Burgundian style Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and for expressing Niagara’s unique terroir. The first officially released wine in Ontario was the 2004 vintage. Toronto Winetasters was lucky to secure that vintage (some of you will recall the very successful LCJ Chardonnay tasting we had three years ago), as well as wines from 2005. The wines have received critical acclaim.

At the outset they produced four Pinot Noirs. The Village Reserve is their entry level wine, regarded by many as one of the best values in Ontario Pinot. Le Clos Jordanne vineyard is the heart of the estate, its light limestone soil producing eloquent, perfumed wines with a racy combination of fruit and minerality. Claystone Terrace is its counterpoint, with heavier clay in the soil mix giving elegant wines with more structure and taut minerality. Le Grand Clos is their top cuvee, made from selected parcels within Le Clos. It has additional character and complexity. Our tasting showcases all four wines from 2004, as well as the 2005 Village Reserve, Le Clos Vineyard and Claystone Terrace along with the 2007 Grand Clos. 2004 and 2005 were very good years in Niagara (quantities were low in 2005 due to the harsh winter but what was made was very good indeed) and 2007 was exceptional.

This tasting showcases the best in Niagara Pinot Noir.

As always with our tastings, this event will be strictly non-smoking, and we request your cooperation in not wearing any scented after-shave or perfume.

Cancellations accepted up to November 9, 2012. See the event form for cancellation contact details. No reservations by phone, please. No confirmations will be issued — you will be contacted only if we are sold out. First come basis. Non-members may attend at guest rates, but preference will be given to members.

Download the event form if you wish to mail in your reservation cheque.