Bellevue Wine's Weekly E-Newsletter May 28, 2010

"Join us this Saturday from 2-5 pm as we welcome Spencer Massie, co-proprietor of Clos du Soleil Winery! In 2005, a small group of professional, international business people, with a passion for wine, food and travel, fell in love with the Similkameen Valley and decided to become grape-growers and winemakers. They acquired a 10-acre orchard on the valley's Upper Bench Road not far from the Grist Mill at Keremeos, and the winery was then launched with the help of neighbors Lawrence and Sharon Herder, who helped find the vineyardand managed early operations, planting it with red and white Bordeaux varietals. The name Clos du Soleil refers to the mountain that forms a tall natural stone wall at the back of the vineyard and the long days of sun which pour onto the Similkameen Bench.

We will begin with the 2007 Clos du Soleil White ($26.90). The White is a blend of 95% Sauvignon Blanc and just 5% Semillon. This fresh elegant wine opens with aromas of citrus zest leading to flavours suggestive of peach, tropical fruits and a hint of gooseberry. The finish is dry with a touch of minerality.

The 2007 Clos du Soleil Red ($38.90) is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It is full bodied but stylish with red berry flavours, cedar, a hint of leather and a long finish. The Cabernet Sauvignon predominates here and this could easily be mistaken for something from the Medoc. Only 18 barrels (about 450 cases) were produced of each.

See You Here!"