(pictured:(L-R) Jodi Morris, Michael Clark, Charlie Baessler, Jesce Walker)
The barn that has functioned as their winery and wine shop at Clos du Soleil will be torn down to make way for a new facility. “We’ll miss the old barn, but our new tasting room is going to be designed to give a nod to our French connections, as well as containing some reminders of this beloved old barn so that we’ll never forget it,” says winemaker and managing director Michael Clark. The new facility will showcase their approach to winemaking from crush through to barrel aging and, just like the current wine shop, continue to offer exclusive products.
The wine club “Soleil 160” has also been streamlined to make it easier for guests to enjoy the benefits. It’s the only way to guarantee access to their most limited-release wines and members can also adopt a row of vines in the vineyard as their very own! Club manager Jesce Walker will be available to provide personalized service to club members during their visits, or anytime over the phone. Check out www.closdusoleil.ca or email Jesce at wine@closdusoleil.ca.
New releases due out soon include Clos du Soleil’s flagship Bordeaux-style red and white wines – the 2012 Signature and the 2013 Capella. 2012 was a great year and Signature is showing beautifully. “Rich, complex and elegant,” says Clark, “framed with fine tannins, and a structure that will allow this wine to age for many years.” The white Capella has developed a following over the last few years. “2013 Capella is one of our most exciting yet,” says Clark. Both wines are the focus of their “3rd Annual Vertical Wine Tasting Event” on October 5th. Hosted by Rhys Pender, MW, attendees will enjoy a vertical tasting of both Signature and Capella going back to the very first vintage in 2006.
~ Luke Whittall