At a glance

Producer

Dirty Laundry Vineyard

Region

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Grape variety

Carignan

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$35 (retail, standard 750ml bottle)

Tasting profile

Dark cherry, black plum, spicy pepper, earth undertones with hints of leather and dried herbs; medium to full body with firm tannins and fresh acidity

Evolution: Fruit will evolve towards dried berry, spice and forest floor; tannins will soften and integrate, developing savory complexity

At peak: At peak, notes will deepen to include leather, smoked meat, and complex spice, balanced acidity, silky tannins and prolonged finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus acidity, balanced and refreshing, supporting aging potential

Tannins

Firm but ripe tannins that are starting to resolve, providing structure and balance

Alcohol

Moderate to slightly elevated, well integrated, around 13.5-14.5%

Aging potential

8-12 years from vintage (2017), typical for Carignan from warm climate with quality producer

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2028

Optimal window

2022 to 2030

Current status

Ready to drink but will benefit from short-term aging

Current condition

The wine currently shows good vibrancy with developing complexity and softened tannins; drinking well now but will gain further complexity with cellaring.

The 2024-2028 window marks peak due to balance achieved between fruit freshness and tertiary complexity. Tannins soften and integrate while aromas evolve from primary fruit to earth and spice, offering optimal drinkability. After peak, fruit fades and structure may decline.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled red meats (steak, lamb), hearty stews, roasted root vegetables, and aged cheeses. As wine evolves, complements game dishes and charcuterie well.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften firm tannins and open up aromas, improving expression and mouthfeel

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Minimal intervention in winemaking, focus on sustainable vineyard management

Dirty Laundry Vineyard embraces sustainable viticulture with attention to soil health and reduced chemical use, but no formal certification available as of now.