Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery

When the Gehringer brothers expanded their vineyard, buying the adjoining property in 1995 (which they call the Dry Rock Vineyard), it still was planted largely with hybrid varieties. They replanted, but not with the German varieties they had built their reputation on; instead, they filled the vineyard with such French vines as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

This decision, while somewhat market driven, resulted from the brothers noting that the Okanagan climate is warming and the French varieties no longer are as risky as they once were. Today, there is plenty of data and research to support that. A decade ago, the Gehringers were among the first in the valley to pick up on the warming trend.  Now well established, their French vines are performing very well. The Dry Rock Sauvignon Blanc, for example, is as crisp and refreshingly zesty as a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.  It is an immensely satisfying white, beginning with its lively spearmint aroma. The flavours carry through with mint, gooseberry and minerals. The edgy acidity gives the wine both grip and a cleansing finish. New Zealand vintners will be envious. 88 points.

Reviewed July 4, 2006 by John Schreiner.