Sam The Wine Teacher 
Having been a home wine maker for over 25 years, I have always been a little leery about ‘wild’ yeast fermentations. ‘Wild’ yeast is also known as ‘ambient’, ‘feral’ or ‘natural’ yeast. My scepticism is not without reason; having bought crushed grapes that began to ferment on their own, before I had a chance … Read more
I was lucky enough to be invited to judge at this year’s Lieutenant Governor’s Wine Awards, held at Government House in Victoria. These wine awards, established in 2003, by then Lieutenant Governor Iona Campagnolo, are designed to recognize excellence in wine making. Unlike other competitions, there are no bronze, silver or gold medals handed … Read more
The location – Mayne Island. The setting – stunning ocean view The weather – perfect. The cast – the usual Tasting Ten gang minus one. The challenge? Ten glasses of Pinot Noir. Rate them, rank them and try to guess the country of origin. Could it be any better? This was the most recent event … Read more
I dropped by Singletree in April for their spring release and after opening their Rosé for dinner one night decided I had to head back out for more. A sunny Sunday offered just the right excuse to go for a drive to Abbotsford. The Mount Lehman area of Abbotsford has been home to one … Read more
2015 Cliffhanger Red Moraine Penticton, BC $17.50 This is a blend of Merlot and Malbec. Garnet red with medium-deep intensity. Bright red berries, red currants, strawberry jam, brambles along with hints of earth and spice. Good balance. The bright fruit carries through onto the palate followed by a medium finish. Serve with a … Read more
2015 Red Chaberton Langley, BC $15.00 Garnet red in colour tinged with purple and medium-deep intensity. Earthy, smoky notes on the nose along with dark fruit and black pepper undertones. Good balance with firm ripe tannins. The palate shows flavours of bright red fruit and smoky meat followed by a medium-plus finish. This is … Read more
They came from a land down under and their wines, they did thunder (with apologies to Colin Hay of Men at Work). Yes, the wines of New Zealand rock. They are known around the world for their unique style of gooseberry driven Sauvignon Blanc. Those in the know also look to the Kiwis for … Read more
2014 Splash River Stone Oliver, BC $18.90 This wine is a blend of Viognier, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer which all bring something to the glass. The wine is pale straw in colour with medium-light intensity. The nose is fruit forward with aromas of tree fruit, stone fruit wet stones and a hint of spice. Good … Read more
Okanagan Falls, nestled between Penticton and Oliver, was known in the late 1800’s as a centre for shipping freight along Skaha Lake and the Kettle Valley Railway. Ranching and fruit growing soon followed. During the mid 1980’s, the region was recognized for its grape growing potential and is now home to 32 vineyards and 15 … Read more
I’ve said it before, and this will not be the last time, but the BC wine industry is home to some of the nicest people in the province. This is especially true with a very special group of people known as, “The Garagistes”. Who are these people you may ask. They are the ‘small … Read more