An OCULUS was first used by the Romans in buildings like the Pantheon
- a window in a dome or wall to the outside. At Mission Hill, our oculus
provides the only natural light into our underground barrel cellar, blasted
out of volcanic rock that is otherwise hidden from the world. Our complex
Oculus Bordeaux-style wine is the result of meticulous selection in the
vineyard estate with grapes that have been specifically nurtured for this
rare wine.
VINTAGE REPORT
The 2018 harvest began earlier than anticipated due to above-average
growing degree days in the spring. Summer arrived with cooler
temperatures, encouraging the fruit to develop beautiful acidity and
allowing more time for full flavour retention. One of the coolest Septembers
on record followed, slowing down the sugar accumulation and allowing
the fruit to fully develop phenologically. Harvest concluded on November
8, with the extended season yielding a crop of uniformly ripened fruit with
mouthwatering freshness and acidity.
FLAVOUR PROFILE
Vivid and fragrant, the nose is generous with a bouquet of intense black
fruits, from currants to ripe blackberries, with a herbaceous nuance. Layers
of earthy character follow, with a cigar box and licorice complexity. The firm
tannin structure lends itself to a long, rich and savory finish.
VARIETALS | Merlot (49%), Cabernet Sauvignon (21%),
Cabernet Franc (30%)
ESTATE | 83% Osoyoos, 17% Oliver
HARVESTED | October 2018
MATURATION | 19 months in French oak Barriques (28% new)
CELLARING | Optimal until 2032
ABV | 14.5% TA | 5.9 g/L PH | 3.67
