“In this series I will be reviewing wines shared with friends”
From time to time I am the fortunate recipient of wines sent to me for review. It is especially nice to share these wines with friends. Not only does it make for lively conversation, and often diverse opinions, but it also makes for a very enjoyable occasion. So thanks to my wine loving friends who join me from time to time for a glass of wine.
“The road to a friend’s house is never long.” This is especially true when the purpose of the visit is to discover the secrets of a new wine, enjoy a delicious meal prepared by our friends and hosts for the evening. So, along with good food and good company, we enjoyed good wine.
The wine I was sharing with friends is:
Kismet 2025 Phulkari Rosé
100% VQA
38% Merlot, 18% Syrah, 16% Cabernet Franc, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec
“Phulkari” translates to a traditional Punjabi floral embroidery style, known in the collection as the “graceful one”
This elegantly refreshing wine showcases vibrant notes of watermelon, raspberry, and strawberry. Delicate floral undertones add finesse, while the clean, crisp finish makes it a perfect choice for any occasion.
The wine is fresh, vibrant, and made to be enjoyed with good food, good company, and warm days.
BRONZE MEDALIST – National Wine Award of Canada – Wine Align
This was a delightfully light Rosé wine that worked perfectly with a selection of fresh fruit, charcuterie and salty crackers.
This was a lovely Rosé that was appreciated by all four of us that had the pleasure of enjoying the wine on a warm sunny afternoon.
$29.99 available online or at the winery
KISMET ~ ਕਿਸਮਤ
Fate; Destiny
Located in Oliver, B.C.—the ‘Wine Capital of Canada’—Kismet Estate Winery is a family-owned and operated winery rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Dhaliwal family, pioneers in the South Okanagan wine industry. From the farming lands of Punjab, India, to the vineyards of Oliver, their journey is a tale of blending traditions and creating a legacy. At Kismet, their cultural roots are not just remembered but celebrated, shaping every bottle, every label, and every experience.
Dedicated to crafting exceptional estate wines from the top 10% of their 600-acre vineyards, Kismet embodies a “quality over quantity” philosophy. Each wine name and label reflects a chapter of the Dhaliwals’ story—from the trials of immigration to the joys of building a new home—offering a tribute to resilience, hope, and the true spirit of the immigrant journey.
At the heart of Kismet is Winemaker Manpreet Dhaliwal, a rising star in the wine world, blending innovation and tradition to create wines that connect people through stories, food, and culture. The winery’s tasting room, wine clubs, and vibrant culinary destination, Manzil Restaurant, invite guests to explore the Dhaliwal family’s heritage and passion for excellence.
Manzil, located on the Kismet Estate, reimagines vibrant Indian cuisine in the South Okanagan. The restaurant celebrates regional Indian dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, fresh spices from India, and bold techniques. With its shared plates, signature cocktails, and pairings with Kismet’s premium wines, Manzil offers a dining experience that unites the flavours of India with the bounty of the Okanagan.
Visit Kismet Estate Winery to discover premium BC wines, thoughtfully crafted culinary pairings, and the story of a family whose destiny, or kismet, continues to shape the Okanagan’s wine and food scene.
Wine notes courtesy of the winery, my notes (in italics). Images: MyVanCity
I received complimentary wine to facilitate this feature. Glassware JosephinenHuette