As the vines shed their autumn leaves, we take a moment to reflect on a year that has brought Lightning Rock Winery both countless challenges but also reasons to celebrate. We would like to take a moment to reflect on the later. From critical acclaim from top critics to a collection of Gold and Platinum medals, our team’s dedication to authentic winemaking and land stewardship has been rewarded with remarkable recognition.
Below we’ve highlighted a few of our proud acclaims on wines we can’t wait to share with you.
2023 Harrington House Vineyard Chenin Blanc Pét-Nat
This year’s 2023 Chenin Blanc Pét-Nat from Harrington House Vineyard emerged as an unexpected favorite, not only for wine critic Anthony Gismondi, who awarded it 90 Points, but also at the prestigious Great Northwest Invitational Wine Competition, where it took home a Gold medal. Gismondi’s review was glowing, praising the wine for its fragrant aromas of pear, melon, and honeysuckle, balanced by refreshing acidity and minerality—an impressive endorsement from a notoriously discerning palate in the world of Pet-Nats.
The journey from grape to glass involved whole-cluster pressing, concrete egg fermentation, and a gentle, six-month rest on lees, culminating in a March 2024 disgorging. We recommend pairing it with soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, making it the perfect companion for warm evenings. Only 98 cases were made, and only a few remain!
2021 Elysia Vineyard Blanc de Noirs
Our Blanc de Noirs from Elysia Vineyard has had a remarkable year, winning Gold at the Wine Align Canada Awards and then going on to achieve Platinum at the Great Northwest Platinum Awards. Crafted in a Brut Nature style from Pinot Noir grapes, this traditional-method sparkling wine received 90 Points from Gismondi, who noted its citrus, green apple, alpine strawberry, and saline finish.
Aged in neutral French oak puncheons before spending another twelve months in bottle, this Blanc de Noirs is a wine of depth and complexity. We love pairing it with duck-fat fries for a truly decadent experience.
2023 Tony’s Vineyard Riesling
A standout in our portfolio, the 2023 Riesling from Tony’s Vineyard has been a revelation, earning both a Gold at the Great Northwest Wine Competition and Platinum at the Great Northwest Platinum Awards. This Riesling is a love letter to Summerland Valley terroir, exuding aromas of green apple, underripe peach, and lemon peel, with a crisp palate of pear and tangy grapefruit.
Spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, followed by six months in stainless steel and a touch of neutral oak, gives this wine its depth and vibrancy. It pairs beautifully with spicy dishes, like chicken and waffles, for a lively interplay of flavors.
2022 Canyonview Chardonnay
Our 2022 Canyonview Vineyard Chardonnay shined this year, achieving 91 Points from Treve Ring. Planted in 2003 on the precipice of Trout Creek Canyon, the Canyonview Vineyard has embraced organic farming from day one. This south-facing vineyard features sandy soils dotted with river stones, producing spectacular Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
The unique terroir imparts delicate notes of green apple, pear, and citrus to the Chardonnay, along with lively acidity and hints of tropical fruits like pineapple and papaya.
This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted quail stuffed with wild mushrooms and served with creamy polenta, offering an unforgettable culinary experience that reflects the purity and elegance of its origin. It’s a true tribute to the vineyard’s meticulous care and the distinct character of the Trout Creek Canyon terroir.
2023 Alvail Vineyard Cab Franc Rosé
A beautiful addition to our portfolio, the 2023 Alvail Vineyard Cabernet Franc Rosé earned 90 Points from Treve Ring. With aromas of wild strawberries, raspberries, and a hint of spice, this pale pink rosé is bright yet creamy, making it ideal for pairing with salmon or a light vinaigrette salad.
Crafted with two-thirds whole-cluster pressing and aged on lees for six months, this rosé is bottled unfined and unfiltered, highlighting its natural elegance.
2022 Canyonview Vineyard Pinot Noir
Finally, the Canyonview Vineyard Pinot Noir from 2022 rounds out this year’s highlights with another 90 Points from Treve Ring. Aged in neutral oak and crafted from whole-cluster Pinot Noir, this wine boasts lively notes of raspberry, cherry, and a hint of lavender, with a granitic grip that balances its softer, cushioned palate. This wine pairs beautifully with BBQ pork ribs or grilled salmon, making it a crowd-pleaser with substance and charm.
As 2023 draws to a close, we are grateful for the dedication of our vineyard and winemaking team, whose commitment to organic farming and small-batch production shines through each sip. We look forward to sharing more vintages with you in the future, and we thank our community of supporters and wine lovers for being a part of this journey.
Here’s to another year of exploring, crafting, and celebrating the wines we love.