A showcase for cideries
Merridale Cidery and Distillery will host the second annual Cider Harvest Festival on Sept. 30 at its farm and orchard in Cobble Hill on Vancouver Island.
The event brings together 15 of B.C.’s top craft cideries, and the festival will focus on the art of craft cider, allowing attendees to taste the product and meet the makers. Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased online for $15 with an optional add-on for shuttle transportation from Victoria and Duncan.
General admission includes six cider tasting tokens and a souvenir tasting glass. Designated drivers, children, and pets are free. Learn more at merridalecider.com.
Calling all Bordeaux collectors and drinkers. The first B.C. release of the 2015 vintage wines is coming to Marquis Wine Cellars on Sept. 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. ( before the store opens) at 1034 Davie St., Vancouver.
The cost to pre-taste and buy is $40, but you will need a ticket. You can get your $40 refunded upon any total purchase of $400. The 2015 is finally a year you can sink your money into, with critics comparing it to 2009 and 2010.
Marquis owner John Clerides, says it’s one of the finest vintages he has tasted.
If you can’t get into the tasting, the store opens at 11 a.m. to the public. For tickets go to marquiswines.com, or call the store at 604-684-0445. Screaming Frenzy Meritage 2016, Similkameen Valley
$25.99 | 89/100
UPC: 626990184973
A fine improvement here, especially on the nose, which is now more of a mysterious, brooding red with earthy, savoury dark fruit nuances that seek to entice rather than overwhelm. The blend is 47/39/14/ Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec from Jagger Rock Vineyard in the Similkameen Valley. The entry is round, soft and dense, with mouth-filling tannins from the Merlot and Petit Verdot. Impressive at this point, especially for the price, and likely to get better over the next two to three years. Lamb is a fine match. G.D. Vajra Barbera d’Alba 2016, Piedmont, Italy
$32.99 | 90/100
UPC: 8026720113228
Aldo Vajra’s wines are all about pristine flavours and clearly defined perfumes that emanate from fruit grown at some 400 metres above sea level in the village of Vergne in the commune of Barolo. Considered a traditionalist, Vajra balances old-style winemaking methods with modern techniques. This Barbera is typically fresh yet amazingly elegant, reflecting its origins from six different vineyards, including four in Barolo. Violets rule the roost of this spicy, almost rich, red that spills across the palate with finesse. Drink now with a classic steak tartare, or cellar for five years.