Cellar Profile
Region
Nestled on a peninsula on the north shore of Lake Ontario, a short drive from Kingston, the Prince Edward County wine region sits on a bed of porous limestone. This is crucial for creating the mineral, brightly acidic wines the region is known for. The vineyards benefit from breezes off of Lake Ontario, keeping the temperature down on hot summer days and cool at night. "The County" was first settled in the late 18th Century and, after years of farmland agriculture, began growing grapes in earnest by the early 2000s.
Vineyard
There are two plantings of Musqué at Rosehall Run: ‘Vina de Casa’ ca. 2004 on the most northeast extremity of the property and ‘Woody’s Walk’ ca. 2002 immediately south of the Casa-a section. In total, there are almost 2300 vines, about one acre in total.
Winemaking
Carefully selected fruit from single vineyard parcels, resulting in wines of exceptional character and a unique sense of place. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel.
Tasting Notes
The cool focused flavours shine on a razor-sharp spine of acidity and grip. The 2019 Chardonnay Musqué Small Lots has all the cut and density of Chablis with the mouthwatering aromatic salinity of seaside grown Albariño. While its fresh fruit is appealing now, this wine has the potential to age.
Varieties
Made with Chardonnay clone 809, which tends to show a more intense flavour profile. In France, it is often used for blending superior white burgundies, adding perfume and complexity, especially when unoaked.