B.C. WINE OF THE WEEK

Culmina Family Estate Hypothesis 2013, Golden Mile Bench, Oliver $46 | 92/100 UPC:

827413000089 Re-tasted six months down the road, just before its official release on Sept. 16 at the winery, and we remain impressed. The latest Hypothesis from the Triggs family is a fine jump up in quality. The 2013 season got off to a quick start but 13 days of cool, wet, and unpredictable weather in September stalled the final ripening. All was forgotten when perfect clusters arrived at the winery. The blend is 38/36/26 Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, all on the Arise Bench. The big news is Hypothesis has shed its rusticity in 2013, and is projecting some early elegance and balance despite a wealth of dense but sweet tannins in the back end. The oak regime is 60/40 new and one-year-old French oak barrels. The fruit is black and savoury but with an elegant, stony mineral undercurrent. Age another five years for optimum quality, or serve now with pheasant, venison or beef. Super value.