Highlights from the tasting room at the Vancouver International Wine Festival

 

As I walked out of the tasting room at the Vancouver Convention Center after day two International Wine Festival Tastings, I couldn’t help but think about the enormous number of wines I just could not get around to trying. Sadly, and despite my best efforts, I had sampled less than twenty percent of the 780+ wines, from 14 different countries on hand. It may seem logical to think that the more variety available the better, but in this case it was simply a matter of wine overload, leaving me certain that I missed out on some great stuff. Honestly though, that was the only negative I could draw from an otherwise well organized and obviously very well attended week long event.

Aside from the standard festival tastings there were a huge number of theme lunches and dinners, educational seminars and grazing events, something to suit every wine lover and price point. The theme country for this year was France, and for the most part she maintained her standing as one of the world’s premier wine producing nations. I do have to admit however, that it is somewhat deflating when you sample a spectacular Burgundy Grand Cru, Super Tuscan or other Prestige Cuvee only to find out about it’s $100 or more price tag. But again, this is where the value of these kinds of events are truly highlighted, giving the masses the opportunity to try the good stuff. And, if something really knocks your socks off at least you know what you are getting before you splurge.

Anyhow, here are a few of the highlights and recommendations for what was a great couple of days of tasting. Pricing guide as follows; $ for wines under $20, $$ for the $20-30 range, and $$$ for $30-50.

 

Bubbles

France is the undeniable master of sparkling wine and along with such pedigree comes cost. So, I decided to feature a number of pocketbook friendly non-Champagne alternatives for any occasion. Take the Wither Hills Sophora for example, with just enough of classic Champagne character to be a serious wine, but in a fresh and forward style that would attract novices and connoisseurs alike.

Wither Hills – Sophora Sparkling Cuvee NV – New Zealand $$

Evans & Tate – Zamphire NV Sparkling Wine – Australia $$

Majella – Sparkling Shiraz 2007 – Australia $$$

Damilano – Moscato d’Asti 2012 – Italy $$

Henkell – Sparkling Rielsling NV – Germany $

Louis Bouillot – Cremant De Bourgogne Rose Perle d’Aurore NV – France $$

 

Whites

I was pleased to find plenty of well-crafted whites in a range of styles, so if you are looking for something a little different, try the Gunderloch Riesling. This Auslese style is medium sweet, but the secret here lies in the acidity, which acts as a counterbalance to the sweetness. Though sweet, this wine is not intended to pair with dessert, but will go very well with spicy Asian dishes and foods with high salt content.

Gunderloch Nackenheim Rothenberg – Riesling Auslese 2009 $$$

Hugel & Fils – Pinot Blanc 2012 – France $

McGuigan – S Series Semillon Blanc 2013 – Australia $

Myer Family – Chardonnay 2012 Mclean Creek & Tribute Series – BC $$

Wither Hills – Sauvignon Blanc 2013 – New Zealand $

Famille Bourgrier Vouvray 2012 – France $

Thornhaven – Gewurztraminer 2012 – BC $

Longview – Red Bucket Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2013 – Australia $

 

Reds

The red wines were really the standout at this event with literally hundreds to choose from. The Fontanafredda Barolo stood out for me because of the overall quality and early drinking accessibility, giving those who choose to buy wines only for immediate consumption an opportunity to experience Barolo. (Barolo often takes many years, sometimes decades to develop before reaching it peak drinking)

Fontanafredda – Barolo di Serralunga d’Alba 2008 – Italy $$$

Majella – The Musician Cabernet Shiraz 2012 – Australia $

Rothschild – Baron Carl St Emilion 2012 – France $$

Santa Rita – Triple 2008 – Chile $$$

Cave Du Rasteau – La Domeliere 2011 – France $

Chateau Lagrezette – Purple The Original Malbec 2012 – France $

Tenuta Sette Ponti – Crognolo IGT Toscana 2011 – Italy $$$

Monasterio De Las Vinas – Reserva 2006 – Spain $