Tasting Notes: Norman Hardie Wines

Norman Hardie Wines 2008 County Chardonnay Unfiltered
Prince Edward County $35
    An unmistakable gunsmoke, flinty note greets you on the nose of this mineral-rich model of Chardonnay before giving way to refreshing citrus and stone fruit aromas. The palate also leads with complex earthy, mineral notes that gain lift from the wine’s remarkable lemon/lime character. The result is an engaging Chardonnay with an appealing yin-yang personality of richness and intensity. 600 cases. normanhardie.com


Norman Hardie Wines 2008 Chardonnay Unfiltered
Niagara Peninsula $35
    This exciting model of Chardonnay is crafted with fruit from two different vineyard sources. It offers compelling nutty, leesy and fresh citrus and lime notes on the nose, while the palate reveals pervasive mineral richness, a surprisingly ripe core of fruit and impeccable integration. This has a glorious nose and glorious length in its youth. The real wonder is that its best drinking days seem months, if not years ahead. 600 cases. normanhardie.com


Norman Hardie Wines 2008 County Pinot Noir Unfiltered
Prince Edward County $35
    Terrific cranberry/cherry aromas mingle with fragrant woodsy/earthy notes on the nose of this subtle yet substantial Pinot Noir. The bright red fruit character replays on the palate, which is amazingly integrated and long at this early stage of development. The purity of the flavour profile and unwavering mineral focus make this a lighter style Pinot (11.5 percent alcohol) that’s going to wow fans of graceful wines that whisper as opposed to shout. 800 cases. normanhardie.com


Norman Hardie Wines 2008 Pinot Noir Unfiltered
Niagara Peninsula $35
    This remarkably well-made Niagara Pinot reveals concentration, richness and serious structure — certainly there’s more body and fruit evident here compared to Hardie’s County Pinot Noir as well as Hardie’s 2006 Niagara Pinot, a product of a similar growing season. Look for appealing red fruit notes and interesting savoury notes that add welcome complexity to nose and palate. Highly recommended. normanhardie.com