Klaus Reif (pronounced ry-fe) is one of the pioneers of the Canadian wine industry. He immigrated from Germany in 1977 & transformed an orchard into a vineyard. By 1983, Reif Estates Winery opened.
When Savvy Sommelier Derek interviewed Andrea Kaiser, Reif’s Director of Retail Operations and Promotions when Reif was the feature winery for our Savvy Selections wine of the month club, she stressed the importance of Reif’s First Growth collection of wines, “These wines are our über premium wines that showcase the terroir of the Niagara River sub-appellation”. For wines to carry the distinctive First Growth label, Reif established early on that the following criteria must be met:
1. The wines must be produced from fruit that comes from Reif’s older vineyards
2. The wines are only produced in exceptional vintages
3. The wines are made under stricter conditions and with greater TLC such as handpicked fruit.
“Reif’s First Growth collection of wines is one of Klaus’ & winemaker Roberto (aka Rob) DiDomenico, dream come true & it is something that they are completely proud of”, beams Andrea.
To date, only four First Growth wines have been crafted by Reif Estate’s (2001, 2002, 2007 & recently, 2010 has been named exceptional). You are in for a treat with this wine!
Cheers & Enjoy!
Reif Estates First Growth Pinot Noir 2007 VQA
$50.00
Savvy Sommelier Tasting Notes: Bright ruby red with enjoyable aromas of cherries, raspberries, leather & pencil shavings waft from the glass. The palate will totally blow you away with flavors of sour cherries, ripe raspberries & dark chocolate. With a velvety mouth feel & a long lingering cherry finish, this is an incredible wine.
Suggested Food Pairing: Peking duck or BBQed lamb chops with a rosemary rub, even grilled salmon would pair very well.
Cellaring: Drinking well now through to 2015.
Want to buy this wine? We can arrange for it to be delivered!
Reif Estates Winery has been a feature winery in our Savvy Selections wine of the month club. Read more about Reif & their wines in our Savvy eZine.
Want to purchase this uber premium wine? Simply contact us to arrange a special delivery of this wine or a mixed case of other Reif wines that we recommend. Or better yet, subscribe to Savvy Selections & wines will be delivered to your home or office!