Arguably BC’s most unique wine release, today sees the unveiling of Haywire Lunar Red, an ongoing tradition that Haywire started in 2014. This limited-edition wine celebrates the 2025 Lunar New Year and the start of the Year of the Snake. To my knowledge it’s the only Canadian wine to do so. 🍷🐍
According to chinesezodiaconline.com the Year of the Snake “symbolizes wisdom, associated with intelligence, intuition, and insight. The snake’s ability to shed its skin represents renewal, transformation, and continuous growth, making zodiac Snakes practical visionaries, good leaders, and great thinkers.”
“The return of Haywire Lunar Red is particularly meaningful to us, as it celebrates the cultural diversity of our province and encourages greater understanding of traditions beyond our own,” says Christine Coletta, founder of Haywire Winery. “This year’s release has a richer style that pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods.”
Indeed, Haywire’s Lunar program is emblematic of the winery’s innovative approach to introducing wine to new markets.
Celebrate in Summerland
If you’re in the Okanagan you can drop by Haywire for its annual Lunar New Year celebration on January 25, 2025.
From the release:
“The winery will be adorned with vibrant décor, offering a lively atmosphere, appetizers, and a curated selection of wines, including the newly unveiled Haywire Lunar Red. Celebrate the spirit of the Snake at one of three seating times: 3 p.m., 5 p.m., or 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person, and reservations can be made via Tock or by contacting the winery at 250-494-4445. Don’t miss out—enter to win a special prize at the event!
“Available in limited quantities for pre-order for $28.88 per bottle, Haywire Lunar Red is sure to be a favourite among wine lovers and cultural celebrants alike, as they enjoy the festivities marking the start of the Year of the Snake on January 29, 2025.”
Light Up Chinatown 2024, photo by Maureen David
“Partial proceeds from sales of Lunar Haywire Red 2022 are donated to Vancouver Chinatown Foundation. The Foundation is dedicated to revitalizing Vancouver’s iconic Chinatown and creating a more resilient, inclusive community through projects focused on affordable housing, cultural preservation, and economic development.”
Haywire Lunar Red 2022, Okanagan Valley VQA
A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Red berry aromas of cherry, anise and sage precede a juicy entry and a medium-bodied, well-structured palate highlighted by fresh acidity and approachable tannins. Damson, cherry and spice notes with a hint of fennel define the lengthy finish, underpinned by that hallmark acidity. Perfectly paired, suggests with winery, with “ginger beef, smoky sauces, dark soy, Szechuan, and wok seared vegetables.” I’ll add that it would also be good with all kinds of barbecued meats—and entirely well-suited to Haggis. ;-) One of the best Lunar wines to-date. 91 pts. $28.88 🍷🐍
Order Haywire Lunar Red here.
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