At a glance

Producer

Inniskillin

Region

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Grape variety

Zinfandel

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$35-45 USD

Tasting profile

Ripe blackberry, plum, and cherry with spicy notes, subtle oak, and a hint of pepper. Medium body, fresh acidity, supple tannins.

Evolution: Will develop more savory notes, dried fruit, and leather with aging; tannins will further integrate.

At peak: Peak expression within 2-4 years: best balance of fruit, spice, and maturity.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus, balancing the ripe fruit

Tannins

Medium, ripe, and integrated

Alcohol

Moderate to high (13.5-14% ABV typical for Okanagan Zinfandel)

Aging potential

Moderate (3-7 years); likely to peak in mid-term rather than long-term cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2027

Optimal window

2024 to 2028

Current status

Young and vibrant, suitable for drinking now with structured potential for development.

Current condition

Showing ripe fruit, bold character, some oak influence, and moderate structure typical of Okanagan Zinfandel.

The moderate structure and style of Okanagan Zinfandel means the wine's best balance between fresh fruit and tertiary complexity will emerge after a couple years in bottle. Primary fruit begins to decline, giving way to nuanced spice and secondary notes before tertiary characters dominate.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, BBQ pork, roasted duck, hearty tomato-based pastas, hard aged cheeses.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, limited use of synthetic chemicals, water conservation initiatives due to Okanagan's dry climate, increased use of lighter bottles and recycled materials.

Inniskillin and the VQA system emphasize environmental responsibility, and participation in Sustainable Winegrowing BC covers significant energy, water, and land stewardship. Recycling, lighter packaging, and efficient acreage help, but there is no full organic/biodynamic certification and transportation remains a factor for non-local purchase.