Vancouver Island is emerging as a significant wine region in Canada, gaining recognition after Jackson Family Wines invested by purchasing Unsworth Vineyards in the Cowichan Valley. The region experiences cool-climate viticulture, distinct from the rain shadow of the Okanagan Valley, often receiving rainfall during the growing season.
Recently, I had the opportunity to taste a selection of wines from 40 Knots, a newcomer based in the Comox Valley. Here are some highlights from their offerings:
40 Knots Spindrift Extra Brut 2021
- Alcohol: 11.8%
- Description: A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this traditional method sparkling wine presents lively fruitiness with high acidity, featuring notes of apple, lime, and a hint of sour cherry. It’s bright and assertive, with herbal hints on the finish.
- Rating: 88/100
40 Knots Soleil Rosé X Brut 2021
- Alcohol: 11.8%
- Description: Juicy and zesty, this pale pink sparkling wine is vibrant with tart cranberry, cherry, and lime notes, showcasing high acidity.
- Rating: 86/100
40 Knots Siegerrebe 2023
- Alcohol: 12%
- Description: Expressive with taut citrus, pear, and green apple flavors, this cool-climate white is light and juicy with balanced acidity.
- Rating: 88/100
40 Knots White Seas 2023
- Alcohol: 12.4%
- Description: This wine features lively aromas of lime and green apple, with citrus fruit and a hint of honey captivating the palate. Sweetness is balanced with high acidity.
- Rating: 87/100
40 Knots Pinot Gris 2023
- Alcohol: 10.7%
- Description: Taut and bright, showcasing juicy pear and lemon fruit with high acidity.
- Rating: 89/100
40 Knots White Pinot Noir 2022
- Alcohol: 10.7%
- Description: This wine is juicy and brightly acidic with lemon and cherry notes, offering a vivid taste experience.
- Rating: 88/100
40 Knots Auxerrois 2023
- Alcohol: 11.7%
- Description: Balanced with pear, citrus fruit, and a juicy finish.
- Rating: 89/100
40 Knots Rosé 2023
- Alcohol: 12.3%
- Description: Features appealing strawberry and lemon notes with refreshing acidity.
- Rating: 87/100
40 Knots Carombolage 2023
- Alcohol: 12%
- Description: A blend aged in stainless steel, this wine has juicy, sappy aromatics of red berries with tart fruit on the palate.
- Rating: 87/100
40 Knots Gamay 2022
- Alcohol: 12.2%
- Description: Aged in stainless steel, it presents bright cherry fruit with tartness balanced by focused sweetness.
- Rating: 89/100
40 Knots Pinot Noir 2022
- Alcohol: 12%
- Description: This wine offers a light, fruity profile with herbal notes and some elegance.
- Rating: 87/100
40 Knots Pinot Noir Classic 2023
- Alcohol: 11.5%
- Description: Aged in amphora and elegantly bottled, showcasing cherry and redcurrant fruit with good structure and potential for aging.
- Rating: 93/100
The wines from 40 Knots illustrate the potential of Vancouver Island’s cool-climate viticulture, contributing to a budding identity within the broader Canadian wine landscape. More details about their offerings can be found on their official website: 40 Knots Winery.