The wine world moves in mysterious ways, even more so in the grips of a global pandemic. But nature plays by her own rules. Indeed, time and vine wait for no one. Like all forms of agriculture, vineyards need to be cared for regardless, especially Pinot Noir. Grapes need to be harvested. And wine needs [...]
It’s easy to miss vinAmité Cellars. The family-run winery is on the east side of Highway 97, almost still ‘in town’, on Oliver’s southern limits. Unseen from the road is the vineyard and a delightful terrace overlooking the vines. The view—best enjoyed with a glass or two on a comfortable settee—looks east and south down the valley. […]
A sure sign of spring is the return of the BC Common White Blend (vini album misceo communi). This familiar visitor brings reassuring proof that warmer temperatures are right around the corner. Chances are you’ll find it catching a few rays in a sunny corner of your patio or deck—or chilling in the birdbath—around lunchtime, [...]
Maverick has been purchased by Tinhorn Creek alumni Jan Nelson (former marketing manager) and former winemaker Andrew Windsor. They add up to a potent partnership that bodes well for Maverick's ongoing success. Full release as follows: OLIVER, British Columbia – April 29, 2020 – Partners Jan Nelson and winemaker Andrew Windsor are thrilled to [...]
Well, it seems that Dr. Bonnie Henry has just made rosé even cooler than we thought was possible. In addition to being the go-to authority on all things Corona-viral, you’ve probably also noticed that BC’s top doc has some pretty impressive fashion smarts. So much so that she’s inspired the province’s most in-demand shoemaker to [...]
BC Bubble is on a roll. There's nothing really surprising about that in itself. But what is curious is why it's taken so long. I've been thinking about (and tasting) a lot of BC sparklers recently. Often as not with a toast to Harry McWatters—the godfather of BC Bubble. The 21 bottle ‘sabre salute’ at Harry's [...]
This year’s British Columbia Lieutenant Governor’s Wine Award winners were announced last night in Kelowna. The winners were unveiled at Okanagan Wine Festival’s signature tasting and reception at the Packing House. The event kicked off the 39th Annual Fall Okanagan Wine Festival. Wine of the year is: Deep Roots Syrah 2017 (Naramata Bench) $29.48—which edged [...]
Howard Soon, in Canadian wine terms, is ‘a living legend.’ Yes, I know. He’ll hate me for saying that. But it’s true. And this week it was confirmed by Howard being recognized with one of the highest awards in the country: the Order of Canada. That had me digging back to 2017, for a story [...]
Quails’ Gate is celebrating 30 years. Time flies. It seems like only yesterday that Ben Stewart poured us a taste of the first Stewart Family Reserve Pinot Noir. We were sitting on a picnic table outside a then much smaller winery. And we almost fell off when Ben told us the price. “You’re going to [...]
Dine Out—as most people know—is built around a whole lot of special, three course menus. Some 300 or so Vancouver area restaurants offer varying degrees of deals and experiences. Yet what many don't realize is that Dine Out has grown into the Dine Out Vancouver Festival. The two week long extravaganza includes culinary experiences of [...]
