Balance Cabernet Franc 2022, Niagara College Teaching Winery

Description/Winemakers Notes:
The 2022 vintage was a smaller crop, coming off a harvest winter in Niagara, but lower yields lead to more concentrated fruit. The wine aged for 16 months in a mix of French and America Oak to support the fruit and soften tannin.

Tasting Notes:
Beautiful ruby colour. Chocolate, raspberry and subtle oak spice on the nose. The palate is bright red fruit with some dark cherry notes. The oak is well integrated, and supports the fruit as opposed to overpowering it. Tannins have softened nicely with time but are still present enough to create a nice warmth the finish.

Tasting Notes by Tony Aspler

Geographical Indication: VQA Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula
Vineyard: Niagara Custom Crush Studio
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Franc
Alcohol: 13%
Residual Sugar: 0 g/L

Wine Description

Appearance: Deep purple.
Nose: Floral lift over ripe plum and oak spice.
Palate: Medium-bodied and dry — mouth-filling plum and black cherry, fine oak integration, and firm ripe tannins.
Serving Temperature: 16–18 °C in a Bordeaux glass.
Drinking Window: 2025–2029 (or decant if drinking young).

Food Pairing Suggestions

Appetizer: Charred eggplant with pomegranate molasses and mint – smoky and tart elements complement the wine’s structure and floral edge.
Cheese: Riopelle de l’Isle (triple cream) or aged Cheddar – richness tamed by the wine’s tannins and dark fruit.
Main: Herb-crusted lamb chops with rosemary jus – robust flavours matched by firm tannins and spicy plum notes.
Main (Vegetarian): Eggplant lasagna with ricotta and tomato confit – layered umami and acidity balance the wine’s structure and depth.
Dessert: Black forest gâteau with kirsch cream – dark cherry and chocolate highlight the wine’s fruit core without overwhelming its dryness.