Quails’ Gate, Okanagan Valley (Canada) 2020

 First planted in 1961, a love affair with Chasselas effectively started this family winery, and this white remains one of its most popular.  Founded in 1989, the winery is now in the hands of the 3rd generation Stewart family.  Today they are major growers, farming 200 acres and they also run a popular restaurant in the area.  The three varieties in this bottling are fermented separately and then blended and briefly aged.  The aroma is light apple with some floral and spice to it, and the wine is medium-bodied and supple.  Pinot Gris seems to assert itself in the mineral-tinged flavors, and the Pinot Blanc likely provides acidity and balance to the every so slight touch of sweetness.  Overall, this is a smooth, nicely fruity white with its own personality.  Widely grown in Switzerland, Chasselas from there is often labeled as Fendant.