SKAHA Vineyard's Equus 2018: BC Wine Country
Today, we turn the lens onto one of British Columbia's boutique wineries that truly captures the essence of the region, SKAHA Vineyard. Nestled in the heart of BC's wine country, SKAHA Vineyard stands as a testament to the fervour and dedication of winemakers Sue and Gerry Thygesen.
Every bottle of their single vineyard series is a tangible representation of the Thygesens' profound respect for winemaking traditions and their love for the land. It is within these bottles that the commitment, heart, and soul they dedicate to their craft come alive.
Rooted in Place
SKAHA Vineyard has its roots firmly planted in the local area, symbolised by its name, which translates to "horse or pony" in the Okanagan / Sqilxw / Syilx dialect. This homage is further embellished by the breathtaking equine artwork, crafted by AmyLyn Bihrle, that graces their labels, a tribute to Sue's enduring love for horses and a reflection of the brand's cultural affinity.
Their commitment to sustainable viticulture is evident in their practices. The vineyard thrives on organic fertilizers and sprays, eschewing the use of pesticides and herbicides. This results in an ecosystem that not only nurtures grapevines but also a flourishing environment for beneficial plants and insects.
Ancient Soils
The vineyard's unique soils, composed of fossilized sandstone, shale, sand, and clay, are remnants of an ancient paleo-river system that existed millions of years ago. It is this unique geological inheritance that forms a crucial part of the vineyard's distinct terroir, and it shines through in every bottle they produce.
The 2018 Equus
The true star is the 2018 Equus from SKAHA Vineyard. This sublime blend of 50% Merlot and 50% Cabernet Franc grapes is a tangible manifestation of the vineyard's minimalist approach to winemaking, indigenous yeast fermentations, extended French oak barrel aging, and bottling without filtering or fining.
Tasting Notes
Bold layers of black cherry, ripe plum, and blueberry, beautifully balanced and complemented by seamlessly integrated French oak. The finish is long and memorable, unveiling whispers of crème brûlée, espresso, and chocolate. Whether savoured alone or paired with grilled red meats, it is an exceptional experience.
With a limited production of just 250 cases, the 2018 Equus is a hidden treasure waiting to be unearthed. We invite you to delve into the rich narrative woven by SKAHA Vineyard's unique offerings, starting with this truly extraordinary wine.
