Ask CRUSHABLE: Are the wines from Martin’s Lane worth the hype?

Credit: Martin’s Lane Winery

Dear Crushable,

Is Martin’s Lane winery worth the hype?

Regards,

Skeptical and Thirsty

Dear Skeptical and Thirsty,

This question is best left to Martin’s Lane winemaker himself - Shane Munn. I reached out to him after receiving this query, and here’s what he had to say on the topic:

“I’d say our Rieslings and Pinot Noirs are as interesting and complex as any other producer in Canada at the moment. And, as transparent in terms of viticulture and winemaking as any other winery as well. Transparency is as important to me as quality.

I can understand the perception of the wines as over-rated. It comes with the price tag, I guess. Those thinking the wines are over-rated likely haven’t tried more than one wine. The inspiration isn’t our neighbours, though.

Reaching further afield is ultimately our goal. I’d say stylistically our Pinots sit happier alongside those (better ones) from Oregon. The Rieslings are certainly European inspired but the individual vineyards often present wines that have quite a different feel. Our Naramata vineyard is richer and more plush (think Alsatian), than the more mineral, acid-driven West Kelowna Fritzi’s Vineyard (think Rheingau/Rheinhessen).

Honestly, I think they’re worth it. Sure, the production costs are high, but the focus and detail in everything we do is very precise. Ultimately, though, it’s about intent. From starting at where we want the wines to be priced to sticking with it because we truly believe they’re worth it. I actually reckon there’s great value in our wines. They’re scarce, and will become more and more so as we grow.”

It might be time to go and snag a case and decide for yourself!

Cheers,

CRUSHABLE

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