Little Engine
Little Engine
AboutLittle Engine
In 2011, Nicole and Steven French began assembling Little Engine on the Naramata Bench, adding a second property in 2013 before their first estate harvest in 2014. The winery opened in 2016, focusing on estate-grown Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Merlot.
The estate vineyards are farmed for low yields, using cover crops and hand weeding rather than herbicides. Vineyard blocks and small lots are kept separate in the cellar, where the approach includes long, cool fermentations and French oak ageing.
Little Engine 2023 Elevation Rosé
Canadian Rosé
$46.99
Deep pink-red in colour, this savoury rosé has strawberry mojito aromas. Strawberry whip, wild strawberry, pink grapefruit, grapefruit pith, juicy watermelon and lime rind appear in the flavour profile. The wine is made entirely from Pinot Noir grown on the Naramata Bench. Hand-harvested fruit is cooled overnight, then given twenty-four to thirty-six hours of skin contact. The drained juice settles before a long, cool fermentation in stainless steel. Alcohol is thirteen and seven-tenths percent.
Little Engine 2017 Silver Sauvignon Blanc
Canadian White
$32.99
Lime and fragrant guava open into crisp apple and a generous core of tropical fruit. The palate is concentrated and richly textured, yet bright acidity keeps the wine energetic and precise. A long, refreshing finish carries the citrus notes cleanly. Serve well chilled with shellfish, goat cheese or herb-led vegetable dishes.
Little Engine 2016 Silver Chardonnay
Canadian White
$36.99
Citrus and fresh apple lead, accented by a measured touch of toast. The palate is rich but well shaped, with bright acidity keeping the fruit and subtle oak in balance. Polished and persistent, it closes with a clean, lively finish rather than excess weight. Pair with roast poultry, butter-poached fish or a simple mushroom risotto.
Little Engine 2016 Platinum Pinot Noir
Canadian Red
$109.99
Dark cherry and ripe forest fruit lead a concentrated, spice-laced profile, with oak adding depth without obscuring the fruit. The palate is fleshy and powerful, yet there is enough structure and freshness to keep it poised. Fine tannins carry the savoury, lingering finish. Decant briefly and serve with duck, lamb or earthy mushroom dishes.