I bought my first six-pack from Kevin Rossion, winemaker and partner at Plot Wines, several years ago. The wines immediately impressed me with their transparency and poise. Kevin shies away from the “natural wine” label, but his approach is certainly less-is-more. He's a viticulturist, first and foremost, and that informs his winemaking, putting the emphasis squarely on the fruit.
Plot is a relatively new endeavour for Kevin – or side hustle, as he calls it. In 2018, he started the label with two friends, who oversee the sales and marketing. In an era of multi-million-dollar wineries in the Okanagan, with multi being a slight understatement, it’s reassuring – and important – that a group of friends can still start a small wine label that’s true to who they are and the type of wines they want to drink.
-GM
Watch our interview with Kevin here:
Tasting Note
One of the standouts in Plot's portfolio is their 2019 Merlot. It’s light, juicy, and moreish, far from what you typically expect from Okanagan Merlot. In part, that’s because of the vineyards, or plots (get it?), that Kevin has selected. Two of the vineyards are located in Kaleden, just 15 minutes south of Penticton. This cooler climate, moderated by Skaha Lake and shielded from the afternoon sun by the Wild Horse Mountains, gives this wine its bright, expressive fruit. Sappy brambles and wild blueberry are lifted by fresh violets, with a deft touch of oak (20% new) adding complexity without overshadowing the fruit. It's a distinct, modern take on Okanagan Merlot that leaves you wanting a second glass. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Food Pairing
Steak frites with tarragon butter.