THE WINE GUY

It’s a little bit of this and a little of that this week, as there really has been a mixed case of wines crossing my tasting desk recently. Which, admittedly, I enjoy; it nicely highlights wine’s true diversity. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: There is the right wine waiting out there for all tastebuds and budgets — and here are three examples to suit myriad settings and situations.

Garagiste: The Small Guys Wine Fest

Take note: The Garagiste wine fest returns to Vancouver on Sunday, April 17 (2-4:30 p.m.) at The Wise Hall (1882 Adanac St., Vancouver). Billed as a small event featuring one-of-a-kind wines from emerging B.C. winemakers, Garagiste also provides small bites and “music to keep things lively.” Tickets are $49 (plus fees). For complete details and a list of participating wineries visit garagistenorth.com.

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Meadow Vista Bliss Sparkling Honey Wine, B.C. ($12.99 for 500mL, #785915)

Honey wine, a.k.a. mead, is not most wine enthusiasts’ everyday sipper, but a handful of B.C. meaderies are pushing it. One example is Meadow Vista’s Sparkling Cherry Honey Wine. Sold in an attractive 500-ml swing top bottle, Bliss is an engaging, bright orangey pink wine produced from Okanagan-produced honey and fruit. Lots of floral tones and berry aromas, and with great texture and a light fizz it will make an able partner for the grilling season.

Bottom line: B+ “Nouveau barbecue honey wine.”

Marisco The Ned 2015 Pinot Gris, New Zealand ($14.99, #854240)

The 2015 whites are arriving, heralded by bottles from the Southern Hemisphere like this fruity and fun white from New Zealand. A top-selling Pinot Gris back in its home country, The Ned pours slightly pinkish thanks to skin contact and soaking after the grapes are crushed. Flavour wise, this bright white is perfect for spring; with floral and orchard fruit nuances, this Pinot Gris tantalizes the tastebuds and goes great with roast pork tenderloin or fresh steamed tamales.

Bottom line: B “Spring in a

wine glass.”

Mount Veeder Winery 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, California ($47.99, #496182)

There is a reason why California Cabernet Sauvignon retains a place in the classic wine pantheon and it’s summed up in a glass of Mount Veeder Winery Cab Sauv. This Napa Valley stalwart has been making wine since the 1970s, and the 2013 vintage reinforces the winery’s reputation. Fulsome berry fruit is complemented by notes of mocha and savoury herbs in an overall medium-bodied style with a dry finish. Serve alongside grilled rib-eye steaks.

Bottom line: A-“Powerful

yet elegant.”