When I lived in Niagara, Dan Wright and I would infrequently run into each other at industry events. Perhaps the most memorable was sitting next to Dan and Don Ziraldo, the Canadian wine icon who founded Inniskillin, at the International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration. Both Dan and I were just out of wine school, and it felt like things were about to start happening for us.
In short order, Dan has quickly become one of BC’s leading winegrowers. As winemaker at Unsworth, located in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island, he's been able to pursue his passion for Burgundian varieties, and Pinot Noir in particular. There are likely easier varieties to grow in this challenging climate, but none are more rewarding than Pinot.
The winery continues under the stewardship of the Turyk family, but now with the backing of Barbara Banke and Julia Jackson of Jackson Family Wines. Their support is taking Unsworth to the next level and firmly establishing the winery as a leader in the Cowichan Valley. And, like Ziraldo, they're committed to giving back and supporting all wineries across the Island.
-GM
Tasting Note
This dry, well-balanced Pinot Noir rosé shows an elegant nose of delicate cherry and strawberry, leading to a concentrated, precise palate that combines fresh, expressive fruit with a salinity that's evocative of the Cowichan Valley's maritime climate. Unsworth is all-in on Pinot Noir - and it's easy to taste why that's the future.
Food Pairing
Watermelon salad with feta and black olives