Pénélope Roche grew up in Pessac-Leognan on her family’s estate, while Vancouver-native Dylan Roche worked his way through Pauillac and Margaux. Their connection with Bordeaux is clearly felt here.
They moved to the Okanagan in 2011, and shortly afterwards started Roche as a small virtual label. Since then, they have opened their own winery and tasting room on Upper Bench Road, minutes from Penticton. The wines have a distinct point of view and – no surprise – they have a magic touch with Bordeaux varieties.
This wine is typically only available to Roche wine club members, so we were thrilled to be able to secure a few cases for the Naramata General Store.
Tasting Note
This vintage is predominantly Merlot (54%), which is sourced from the gravel and granite soils of Kozier Vineyard on the Naramata Bench, along with Cabernet Sauvignon (24%) and Cabernet Franc (22%) from the South Okanagan. There’s a stony minerality that underpins this wine, which supports the fresh, expressive fruit. Expect juicy wild berries and dark plums that are layered with fresh herbs and cedar. Nuances is right: this is an elegant Bordeaux blend that will gracefully age over the next 10 years.
Food Pairing
Classic Sunday beef roast with all the fixings