the WINE GUY
So here we are, the last week of the official summer break. No real need for me to remind you it’s been a strange one, though in B.C. at least we’ve been fortunate enough to have the latitude to get out and explore our beautiful province.
And while I am not even going to touch on the coming complexities of next week’s “back to school,” here’s hoping many can continue the summer breaks and staycations through Labour Day.
Though that said, like myself many may find their summer budgets beginning to run dry, so this week’s focus is on a few budget bottles for balmy nights!
THE SWIRL: THE VIRTUAL VINSTITUTE
The Okanagan-based Vinstitute may have curtailed their in-person wine classes due to COVID-19, however, they have partnered with Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country to launch Virtual Vinstitute, a series of online wine education sessions. In each livestream session, educator Moss Scheurkogel explores the wineries of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country through live tastings and educational seminars. The next Virtual Vinstitute (Session #9) is scheduled for 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. on Sept. 8, and don’t fret if you’ve missed the others — all episodes are posted to the association’s Facebook page at facebook.com/OliverOsoyoosWineCountry/ live/.
Two Oceans 2019 Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa ($8.99 on sale until Sept. 5, #340380)
A glass of Sauvignon Blanc on the patio is a quick recipe for summer enjoyment. Add some fresh grilled fish — bonus bragging points if you caught the fish yourself — or rosemary-marinated chicken kebabs and you have the complete summer setup. No need to get fancy with either the wine or the meal prep at under $10, Two Oceans’ Sauv Blanc is awash in citrus and tropical fruit aromas, with a tickle of herbaceous notes and a simple, fresh and easy style. In short, this bottle is ready to ensure you don’t waste these final prime grilling and patio lounging days.
Bottom line: B-, Patio
friendly
Run Rafa Run Airen, Spain (around $11, available at select private liquor stores)
On the other side of the white wine spectrum, check out Run Rafa Run Airen. You likely haven’t heard of it, but Airen is a big deal in Spain, where it is one of the most planted grape varieties. Historically this low maintenance, drought-resistant grape has commonly been used for making brandy. Whereas Sauvignon Blanc tends to scream out of the glass with overt aromatics and fruit, this Airen murmurs with more savoury citrus pith and almond skin — and a supple, light stance overall. As a result, this balanced and mellow white plays nicely with most meals: from roast chicken to paella.
Bottom line: B, Soft and supple
Oops Spicy Splendor 2018 Carmenere, Chile ($13.99, #72777)
Finally, there’s no need to put those barbecue reds away just yet. And for a conversation starter to pair with a grilled meal, check out Oops Spicy Splendor Carmenere. The Carmenere grape has an intriguing global history, which is helpfully discussed at length on the bottle label, for an education while you sip. In short, it’s the “Lost grape of Bordeaux discovered in Chile masquerading as a Merlot!” And this 100 per cent Carmenere brings a soft entry showing ripe dark fruit and sweet spice that carries through on a smooth, fruity finish. Foodwise, think heartier grilled fare, like grilled portobello mushrooms and polenta or grilled lamb.
Bottom line: B-, Smooth
and fruity