Cellar Profile
Dan and Lynn Sullivan founded Rosehall Run in 2000. The 150-acre farm was selected due to its proximity to Lake Ontario (1-2 kms on three sides) and the remarkable clay soil scattered with rock and shale fragments on a calcareous limestone base. This was one of the earliest Prince Edward County wineries established in the west central region known as Hillier Ward. Planting of the vineyard began in 2001 with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Today, there are 25 acres of vinifera including Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Muscat and Tempranillo. With over 30 years of Ontario winemaking experience, Dan is recognized as one of the top winemakers in the region. He is critically acclaimed for his consistent, elegant, approachable Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and Sparkling wines as well as his innovations with unique varietals.
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
Entirely grown and selected from the North Block, planted in 2001 and 2002.
Winemaking
The juice was settled and racked to barrel for fermentation and élevage for 16 months in large 500L tight grained predominantly French oak puncheons. Ultimately, the cuvée selected was approximately 50% new oak with the balance second fill French and Russian wood.
Tasting Notes
Full-bodied with bright citrus and tasty almonds on the nose. On the palate, fresh lemon, green apple and toasty vanilla characters. Hints of minerality on the finish.
Varieties
Climate, terroir and wine making procedures play a great role in the flavours and textures of Chardonnay. Using Dijon clone 76, 95 and 96 brings smaller berries, earlier ripening and very expressive aromatics.