At a glance

Producer

North Bench Wine Company

Region

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Grape variety

Nerello Mascalese

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$55

Tasting profile

Red cherry, wild strawberry, earth, and subtle volcanic minerality. Medium body with fresh herbaceous notes and fine tannins.

Evolution: Over time, more complex notes of leather, dried herbs, and smoky volcanic ash emerge.

At peak: Peak expression will reveal a balance of ripe fruit and savory earthy components with smooth tannins and lingering finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium+ acidity providing good freshness

Tannins

Fine-grained, moderate tannins

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2023 to 2032

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

Drinking well with youthful freshness and structure

North Bench Nerello Mascalese is a modestly structured wine from a cool-climate New World region. The 2017 vintage has enough acidity and tannin to allow for aging beyond 5 years. Given the grape’s natural medium tannins and the producer’s quality focus, the wine's integration and complexity improve with moderate cellaring, reaching its prime between 6-13 years after vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables, mushroom risotto, and medium-bodied charcuterie.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow the wine to open up and soften the moderate tannins, enhancing aromatic complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

North Bench Wine Company employs sustainable farming practices including integrated pest management, drip irrigation to conserve water, renewable energy usage at winery, and minimal intervention winemaking techniques. Packaging uses recycled materials and lightweight glass bottles.

The producer’s focus on sustainable viticulture combined with responsible water use and energy efficiency places it above average in sustainability in the region. While not certified organic or biodynamic, the environmental stewardship and community engagement contribute positively to its sustainability profile.