2021 Stratus Consorzio

This medium-bodied ‘Niagara Super Tuscan’ opens with a vibrant nose of cracked black pepper and dried hibiscus, drawing you into a lean yet compelling structure. On the palate, bright cherry cola brings an energetic acidity that is framed by darker fruit undertone while the core remains taut and focused. Earthy nuances of cigar box emerge at the mid-palate and through the lingering dark berry, licorice finish. Serve with a slight chill alongside classic tomato-based pasta dishes.

Defined by highly variable weather, 2021 was unpredictable from start to finish. The year started with warmer than average, January temperatures. Spring settled into predictably seasonal temperatures and generally dry conditions – a great start to the growing. As the summer progressed, hot and dry conditions prevailed. Despite unexpected scattered rain and severe thunderstorms at the end of the month, extreme heat and drought were the predominant challenges faced in August. Unstable weather in the fall, presented challenging harvest conditions. Rain and humidity at

inopportune times required a strategic approach to picking grapes at their peak. Many of the red varieties were harvested at the tail end of November and in early December.