Hester Creek The Judge Red Blend 2022

Hester Creek The Judge Red Blend 2022 is a commanding, highly polished, and deeply expressive flagship Bordeaux-style red blend that masterfully highlights the unique terroir of British Columbia’s Golden Mile Bench. Crafted from historic old vines dating back to 1968, this exceptional 2022 vintage blends 47% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Franc, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec, all meticulously aged for 24 months in French oak barrels. In the glass, it displays a deep, concentrated garnet hue. The sophisticated, multi-layered nose opens with elegant aromas of star anise, dark Lapin cherries, and plum, beautifully interwoven with nuanced undercurrents of cocoa dust, fresh cedar, sweet baking spices, and a hint of graphite. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, velvety, and seamlessly integrated, showcasing a rich core of juicy black fruit, blackberry, and cassis. Supported by a perfectly balanced spine of fresh natural acidity and refined, silky tannins, it evolves beautifully on the mid-palate toward complex notes of roasted fennel, savory tobacco, and mocha before culminating in an incredibly long, persistent, and harmonious finish.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with slow-smoked beef short ribs, a thick charcoal-grilled prime ribeye steak, barbecued venison, or a rich roasted beet and goat cheese torte.