Three Crafted-in-BC Wines to Savor as Winter Days Lengthen
As we settle into late January, the days are gradually growing longer with sunsets now extending past 5 p.m., offering a welcome respite from the holiday season's busyness. This transitional period provides an ideal opportunity to slow down and explore some overlooked gems. Wine columnist James Nevison turns his attention to three crafted-in-BC wines that have been waiting patiently in tasting notes, each offering unique characteristics and excellent value.
Gehringer Brothers 2024 International Series Riesling
Price: $17.98
Availability: Winery and private wine stores
Okanagan stalwart Gehringer Brothers has created a temporary lineup they clearly label as their international series, with this Riesling featuring a limited edition designation. The winery sourced Riesling grapes from Washington State to produce what they describe as "A wine from a completely different terroir made in our traditional house style." The result is a fruit-forward, off-dry white that's particularly crowd-friendly.
In the glass, aromas of oranges and orchard fruit dominate, supported by evident acidity that provides a fresh stance before leading to an easy finish. This versatile white pairs exceptionally well with Chinese take-out, making it an accessible option for casual dining.
Bottom line: B rating - Great with Chinese take-out
Quails' Gate 2024 Field & Flight Pinot Noir
Price: $22.99
Product code: #668257
The Kelowna-based Quails' Gate winery ventured to Oregon for this Pinot Noir, with the label clearly stating "Farmed in Oregon." The winery describes their Field & Flight wines as "a daring adventure into uncharted territories," though Oregon's reputation for excellent Pinot Noir makes this particular journey quite logical.
Inside the bottle, you'll find ample cherry and berry notes presented in a juicy style, backed by an earthy, savory core. The finish is supple and smooth, creating an enjoyable everyday red that pairs well with diverse meals ranging from pizza to roast pork.
Bottom line: B+ rating - Supple, straight-up Pinot
Blasted Church 2024 Big Bang Theory
Price: $23.98
Availability: Winery and private wine stores
Okanagan Falls' Blasted Church winery collaborated with Andrews Family Vineyards in Washington's Horse Heaven Hills appellation to create this Merlot-dominant blend. The composition includes 60% Merlot, 24% Syrah, and 16% Malbec, resulting in a wine that pours a deep purple-black in the glass.
Aromas of plum and dark fruit mingle with herbal notes, while a juicy entry leads to a fulsome, solid texture. Some drying tannins appear on what is otherwise a pretty, fruity finish. This robust red calls for hearty dishes like grilled sausages or rich mushroom-based sauces.
Bottom line: A- rating - Tastebud tickler
Wine Festival Update: Tickets Now Available
For those looking to expand their wine horizons further, tickets for all public events at the upcoming 47th annual Vancouver International Wine Festival are now on sale. This year's festival runs from March 7-14 with France as the featured country. Twenty-five public events are scheduled, including engaging wine seminars, lively lunches, casual wine parties, and winemaker dinners, plus the signature International Festival Tastings.
Popular events typically sell out quickly, so wine enthusiasts are encouraged to review all details and book tickets at vanwinefest.ca to avoid disappointment.
