As the first frost settles across Canada and daylight hours shorten, the shift towards winter is unmistakable. The familiar adage, "There's no bad weather, only bad clothing," can also be a guiding principle for your wine selection. Just as you layer up for the cold, it's time to embrace richer, more warming reds to comfort your palate during the chilly months ahead.
Three Bottled Sweaters for Winter
James Nevison, the Wine Guy, has curated a selection of red wines that serve as the liquid equivalent of a cashmere sweater—cosy and elegant without being overly heavy. These three bottles, all priced under $25, are perfect for sipping by the fire or pairing with hearty winter meals.
Chateau Daviaud 2022 Bordeaux, France
Priced at $21.99 and bearing product code #401073, this Merlot-dominant blend from France's Right Bank offers a contemporary take on Bordeaux. It presents engaging aromas of berries, dark fruit, and herbs, complemented by a toasty oak character. While it starts with intensity, a core of freshness brings balance, leading to a dry and leisurely finish. For the best experience, consider decanting this wine before serving it with a classic roast or grilled lamb chops.
Bottom line: A-, Great everyday Bordeaux.
Altosur 2021 Malbec, Argentina
This Malbec, available for $22.99 (#186588), stands out from its often overbearing peers. Sourced from cooler, high-altitude vineyards in Argentina's Uco Valley, it avoids overwhelming the palate. Instead, it offers aromas of blackberry, bramble, florals, and herbs. The wine is marked by a punchy entry, a touch of spice, and a refreshing acidity that carries through to a fulsome and balanced finish. It is an ideal partner for braised lamb shank or baby back ribs.
Bottom line: B+, Ruggedly handsome Malbec.
Pepperjack 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Australia
If the previous wines were cashmere, this $23.99 Cabernet from Australia's Barossa region (#372207) is more of a dependable cable-knit sweater—slightly chunkier but no less comforting. It pours a deep, glossy purple and delivers the classic hallmarks of Barossa Cabernet: captivating dark fruit aromas with a minty, herbal note and a distinctive pepper spice. The mid-palate is smooth yet snappy, finishing with a plush but balanced feel and a lingering peppery tone. Try it with steak tacos or a sharp cheddar.
Bottom line: B+, Toothsome Cabernet.
A Final Taste of Italia for the Year
For those looking to extend their culinary adventures, Il Centro Vancouver's Italian Cultural Centre is hosting its final Taste of Italia dinner of the year on Sunday, November 23. The event, running from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., will be a culinary journey across Italy, featuring a multi-course menu with highlights from previous dinners. Tickets for the complete menu are $75 and can be purchased at italianculturalcentre.ca.
