Wine Guy's Spring Reset Uncovers Three Must-Try Bottles for the Season
In the spirit of spring cleaning, it's time to flip through the tasting book and prepare for a seasonal reset. With warmer, sunnier evenings hopefully on the horizon, this week's exploration unearths a trio of wine picks that are perfect for the changing season. Each selection offers unique flavors and pairing possibilities, making them ideal companions for spring dining and outdoor enjoyment.
CedarCreek Estate Winery 2024 Riesling, Grown in Germany
Price: $25, available through the winery and select private wine stores.
A significant rejuvenation of white wines is underway as vintage 2025 bottles begin to be released. For most British Columbia wineries, this means a thankful return to locally grown grapes. However, CedarCreek took an intriguing turn for their 2024 Riesling, sourcing grapes from the Pfalz region of Germany, a country historically renowned for producing top-notch Riesling.
This lively and elegantly textural Riesling opens with great citrus, apple, and floral aromas. A hint of sweetness complements a lingering fresh kiss on the finish, making it a delightful choice. It would be fascinating to taste this alongside both CedarCreek's 2023 vintage, which is still available on some store shelves, and the upcoming 2025 release.
Bottom line: A-, Awesome food partner, from scallops to takeout Thai.
Pascal Bouchard 2023 Blancs Cailloux Petit Chablis, France
Price: $35.99, product code #864280.
For those who can't get enough Chardonnay, here's another excellent option ready to take on the patio season. The name Blancs Cailloux references the "white pebbles" or stony nature of the Portlandian limestone plateau that hosts the wine's Chablis vineyards. This characteristic also hints at the wine's inherent qualities.
After fermentation and a seven-month rest in stainless steel, this bright white wine buzzes with unadulterated, vibrant citrus and stony mineral notes. These elements create a fun tension before leading into a lengthy, lemony finish. Spring brings a renewed focus on fresh seafood, and this wine pairs perfectly with dishes like spring salmon or shrimp scampi Alfredo.
Bottom line: B+, Chardonnay and seafood vibes.
Don David 2023 Reserve Malbec, Argentina
Price: $19.99, product code #156455.
Has barbecue season started yet? As a wise neighbor once noted, it's always barbecue season for hardy souls or those with covered patios. For fair-weather grill masters, the time is almost here. It was a fortuitous find to come across another overlooked Malbec in the tasting book, and a stalwart workhorse red at that.
High-elevation Malbec vineyards, situated more than 5,000 feet in the Calchaquí Valley in the Salta region, lend an aromatic, floral, and dark fruit finesse to an otherwise robust, meaty, and full-bodied red. The fruit is complemented by earth and toasty oak tones before finishing with fulsome, ripe tannins.
Bottom line: B, Bring on the burgers.
The Swirl: April is B.C. Wine Month
April has arrived, and if you happen to hear or see more about British Columbia wines this month, it's by both design and decree. The provincial government has once again proclaimed April as B.C. wine month, a timely edict considering spring and summer are prime wine touring seasons.
With the patriotic push for British Columbians to sip local and explore wine country in support of B.C.'s wineries, expect to see numerous winery events and tastings throughout the month. A reliable general source to stay updated on these activities is winebc.com/wine-bc-events/.
This seasonal reset not only highlights excellent wine choices but also encourages exploration and support for local wineries as we transition into warmer months.
