Winemakers get only one shot per year to get a vintage right. This makes it tough for them to gain valuable experience, particularly early in their careers. In order to gain more practice, they can travel from the northern hemisphere to the southern in order to cheat mother nature and sneak in a second vintage each year. This practice is known as chasing harvest. It was so deeply embraced by Mike and Jennifer Kush that they named their wine after it. After chasing harvests around the globe, the Kushs have settled into the two regions which they are most passionate about, Central Otago in New Zealand and the Douro Valley in Portugal.
Jennifer and Mike Kush, Chasing Harvest
2015 Chasing Harvest Douro DOC, Vinho Branco
Pale gold in color this wine presents aromas of pear, delicate white flowers, lime leaf and a distinct minerality. On the palate the medium weight is balance beautifully with flavors of anjou pear, apricot, and citrus, bright acidity makes for a long mouthwatering finish.
SRP: $22
2017 Chasing Harvest, Pinot Noir Rosé, Central Otago, New Zealand
Medium salmon in color the nose on this rosé is all about finesse and elegance. Aromas of ripe strawberry, dried violet and hot dusty stone. On the palate the lush and refined texture gets your attention first. This leads the way to flavors of ripe strawberry, cherry, mandarin and lime peel and a crisp acidity which makes this wine great as a porch sipper or perfect for food.
SRP: $22
2014 Chasing Harvest Pinot Noir, Central Otago, New Zealand
This delicate ruby colored pinot noir expresses aromas of dark cherry, leather, earth and a savory umami note. Flavors of black cherry, fresh herbs, and a hint of baking spice are backed by fresh, bright acidity and youthful fine yet grippy tannins. This one will age gracefully for three to six years and beyond.
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