the WINE GUY
It’s official; summer has formally arrived. So no more pontificating about what to serve with those summer eves, we’re post-solstice — it’s time to get sipping seasonally appropriate. For me this means embracing versatile wines: wines with both freshness and fruitiness that can pair just as well with the front porch or the backyard barbecue; wines that are fun, tasty without the pomp and circumstance; wines that are balanced and not doused in oak nor circumspection. Wines that, by the way, come in all shades — red, pink, and white.
THE SWIRL: ART IN THE WINES
Township 7 Vineyards & Winery will host their annual Art in the Vines from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 24 at their South Langley location (21152 16th Ave, Langley).
Featuring more than 25 artisanal vendors (jewelry, glass, pottery, paintings, photography, clothing, and more) alongside food by the Old Country Pierogi Food Truck and music from Quay Side Voices (oh, and of course wine!), the event is billed as an opportunity to discover that one-of-akind-gift while enjoying the perfect pairing of wine and the arts at a neighbourhood winery.
Admission is by donation to support Osteoporosis Canada, and for complete details call 604-532-1766 or visit township7.com/events.
Kris 2016 Pinot Grigio, Italy ($17.99, #151860)
There’s Pinot Grigio, and then there’s Pinot Grigio. Many associate Pinot Grigio as a light, one-dimensional watery white wine. Perfect for keeping cool poolside at the villa, it’s true, but not exactly ripe for deep conversation. But then you taste a bottle like the Kris Pinot Grigio, with its multi-faceted herbs, citrus, and floral nuances complemented by a rich entry bedecked with tropical fruit. It’s just as suited for the summer season, yet will also stand up to a serious heart-toheart (not to mention chicken souvlaki). A robust yet balanced finish concludes, just make sure to not serve too cold
(think 30 mins out of the fridge). Bottom line: B. Fresh yet
smooth.
L’Ostal 2017 Rosé, France ($14.99, #71191)
Admittedly, rosé has become somewhat of a summer “thing” these days. But for good reason. It’s enticing to look at in the glass, it releases engaging aromatics when swirled, and it’s just pure fun to sip. For a great all-around, pretty in pink wine it’s hard to beat the latest vintage of L’Ostal Rosé. A blend of Grenache and Syrah from the south of France, it pours a clear light pink and wafts a kiss of berry and floral aromas. Lighter in stance with a crisp finish, this makes an easy pairing partner — whether the match is a solo glass on the patio or a dinner of grilled prawns on the table. Bottom line: B+ Patioapproved pink.
Robin Ridge 2015 Pinot Noir, British Columbia ($20.25, available through the winery)
When it comes to red wines, my summer palate naturally drifts towards the likes of Gamay and Pinot Noir, robust reds that typically manage to maintain bright fruit and evident acidity and won’t bog down the tastebuds. A red, in fact, like Robin Ridge’s estate grown Pinot Noir. Sustainably produced following organic wine-growing and viticulture, this Similkameen Valley Pinot Noir fetches a dark garnet in the glass and brings an enticing mix of aromas: dark fruit, sage, and orange peel. It’s balanced with a silky mouth feel, followed by a smoky and savoury finish. In short, this is great barbecue wine. Bottom line: B+ Silky Similkameen Pinot.