I sincerely never knew love like this before. Our visit left such an amazing impression that we returned a second time in the same trip.
Visiting in April leaves little opportunity to tour the vineyard, but the property's layout was quite impressive. While the vineyard is definitely smaller than the others we visited, we learned during our visit that 10,000 bottles are produced here annually and two of their wines won the silver and gold medal recently beating out Okanagan vineyards as well.
We took advantage of the 60 plus degree temperatures and sun by enjoying our tasting on their beautiful patio/deck which looks out to a small pond which has a fountain and a few ducks. Barb provided us with at least seven tastings including a few new releases and several which were not on the list sheet. We found each pour to be very good and while our preferences differed, there was never a drop left. That said, the crackers and rosemary pinot gris jam were a perfect snack allowing us to go the distance.
While the 2013 and 2015 Ortegas were my top picks, the 2013 Cabernet Libre which is a medium body hybrid developed for the soil and climate of this region was phenomenal. At first smell and sip, the Libre was a bit off-putting for me in that its earthy scent was rather apparent, but the taste on your palate evolve on the second and third sips.
Judging by the amount of wine (and jam) we purchased at Enrico, it was our by far our favorite winery in Cowichan. My only regret is that we did visited too early in the season to enjoy live music and grilling. read more