THE SWIRL: Sandhill Wine Pairing @ Boathouse Kitsilano

T he merits of blended wine are well documented. Grapes can definitely make good team players, coming together as one seamless, performance-packed powerhouse — like the Canucks on a good night (ouch, perhaps an ill-timed simile!). While there are a number of classic grape blends throughout the wine world, one that at first seems a tad strange is the assemblage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz (a.k.a. Syrah). Can two bold, muscular red grapes really marry? Well, if there was ever a time to find out, it’s during these dreary, dark days of late fall.

The Boathouse Kitsilano (1305 Arbutus Street, Vancouver) is set to host a Sandhill Wine Pairing Dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 30. Starting at 7 p.m., guests will enjoy a six-course tasting menu served alongside hand-selected wines presented by Sandhill Estates’ Master Winemaker Howard Soon. Tickets to this special evening are $75 (tax and gratuity not included), to see the complete menu and reserve space call (604) 738-5437.