Updated, Dec 2, 2020
The thoughtful humans at Bizou + Yukon have unleashed a handy ‘Weekend Wine’—in a bag. The Let’s Wander ‘pooch pouch’ is not only convenient, it also has a lower impact on the environment than glass, says head human Christine Coletta. Plus “It’s easy to transport and, of course, the wine is delicious!”
Look for it at select Save-On Foods, as well as at Kitsilano Wine Cellar, VQA Wine Info Centre, Angry Otter Liquor and elsewhere.
If it was anyone else, I’d say this is a classic case of a winery gone to the dogs. But the truth is: if anyone can launch a brand in the middle of a worldwide pandemic and / or subsequent recession, it’s Okanagan Crush Pad owner Christine Coletta.
It turns out that buying a vineyard, building a winery, plus buying a couple more vineyards, going mainly organic and pouring at every major European wine fair (and more) wasn’t enough to keep Ms. Coletta sufficiently occupied.
Last year, on a plane between Vancouver and somewhere, she had the idea of (what else?) a light hearted wine to celebrate two pretty big loves in her life, her Great Pyrenees Bizou and Yukon.
We know the wine biz can be a dog eat dog world, and that critter labels are supposed to be so over. (Remember Yellow Tail?) But that wasn’t enough to deter Coletta, who doggedly paddled ahead with her plan. Besides, as she told me last month, she felt it was a good time for something fun and light-hearted.
Or, in her own words:
“I hope you enjoy discovering the Bizou + Yukon project as much as I had fun creating it with my amazingly talented team. If this project has no other impact, it boosted my joy for life during a period when the news from around the world was very bleak, reminding me that better times would come, as they always do.”
These really are fun wines, from their delightfully whimsical labels to the unabashed approachability of what’s in the bottle. They’re clean, fresh and uncomplicated. But they’re also well made, and likely to lure you back for more.
On the other hand, there is a less fanciful, more serious side to the story. Although very much part of the family, Bizou and Yukon are actually working dogs. They live at Garnet Valley Ranch, the winery’s high elevation, fully certified organic property, and guard the sheep that tend the vineyard. For now, few of the grapes for these wines come from there. However, no doubt, Bizou and Yukon will keep us entertained with their adventures until the main event kicks in, a few years down the road.
At the end of the day, says Coletta “… 2020 hasn’t rolled out as we envisioned and we can certainly use some joy.”
Indeed.
And, to be sure, this is no shaggy dog story…
Bizou + Yukon Savvy Gris 2019 (BC VQA Okanagan Valley)
Here’s a nice idea to make Pinot Gris just a tad more interesting. Gooseberry hints up front, it starts out pretty classic Sauvignon Blanc, easy on the palate with some serious fruit intensity and mouthfeel, tropical fruit, grapefruit citrus with juicy acidity and a zesty close. A very refreshing drop. 89 pts. $21.90
Bizou + Yukon Pinkie Rosé 2019 (BC VQA Okanagan Valley).
I’m still trying to figure out who Pinkie is. But never mind. This brings bright red berries up front with floral notes before a juicy and approachable, vibrant fresh strawberry palate. Great with ham and cold cuts. Definitely a ‘drink don’t think’ kind of pink that’s perfect for the soon-to-be-here dog days of summer. 90 pts. $21.90
Bizou + Yukon Savvy Franc 2018 (BC VQA Okanagan Valley)
A blend of Merlot, Cab. Sauv and Cab Franc, wild yeast fermented in concrete. Wild red and black berries, earthy and cedar notes; a fresh entry leads to a spicy and structured palate with raspberry, dark cherry and cranberry, good mouthfeel and easy tannins. The perfect burger wine. Or, as B+Y say, “Paws down the best BBQ partner you will find.” Vegan friendly. 90 pts. $23.90
Right now you can order only by the case, direct from the winery. A bonus, you’ll get 12 bottles, each with a different label.
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