Catching up with the new releases from Norman Hardie, Prince Edward County, Canada

norman hardie

I visited Norman Hardie in Prince Edward County in 2013, and was blown away by the wines he’s making. So it was great to be able to taste his latest releases at The Wine Society’s HQ in Stevenage yesterday, courtesy of buyer Sarah Knowles. I also tried a couple of the 2012s that they are currently listing. These are really intriguing, elegant wines. He makes a pair of each Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, from both PEC and also Niagara. The different climates (Niagara is slightly warmer, and can be quite humid during the growing season) are evident in the wines.

Norman Hardie Niagara Chardonnay 2012 VQA Niagara Peninsula, Canada
Fine, taut lemon and toasty nose. Real tension here, with some lime and mineral characters, and lovely pure fruit, with very subtle toasty richness. This is remarkably fine and expressive with a hint of matchstick in the background. 94/100

Norman Hardy Niagara Chardonnay 2013 VQA Niagara Peninsula, Canada
There’s some richness and generosity here with pear and white peach fruit. Quite rich with some toast and spice and nice texture. Bold style but with some finesse. 93/100

Norman Hardy County Chardonnay 2013 VQA Prince Edward County. Canada
Matchstick and spice on the nose. The palate is fresh and mealy with nice density and lively citrussy notes. Real presence on the palate with keen acidity and a mineral core. Pear and citrus. 94/100

Norman Hardie County Pinot Noir 2012 VQA Prince Edward County. Canada
Beautifully pure and aromatic with fine raspberry, red cherry and redcurrantnose. The palate is juicy and fresh with nice fine spicy cherry fruit and bit of spicy warmth under the very fresh fruit. Subtle hints of meat and herbs, too. Very pure and fine. 94/100 (£23 The Wine Society)

Norman Hardy Niagara Pinot Noir 2013 VQA Niagara Peninsula, Canada
Sweet, juicy, nice bright focused berry and cherry fruit. Quite generous but with detail and precision. Subtle meatiness and nice tannins. 94/100