There’s no more enjoyable week for a wine lover than the annual Vancouver International Wine Festival. Where else can you try so many wines, share so many tips, pick up the hot buzz and make new wine friends? This year’s festival celebrates the wines of Australia. With that in mind I’m recommending you warm up for … Read more
One of the best things about writing about wines is the people you meet…..wine makers, retail staff, other writers and just, plain wine lovers. That’s often where I get my best tips and recommendations for wines priced in the $25 and under range. So today’s Wine Wednesday pick comes with a big thank you to … Read more
Kim Crawford is a nationally recognized wine maker largely because of the very popular Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. So naturally I was interested in trying Kim’s Pinot Gris to see if their success extends to this varietal. I’m happy to report it does. My yard stick for Pinot Gris is the superb wines produced … Read more
When I first started developing an interest in wine I learned that the Languedoc region is a great go-to place when you’re looking for good value table wines. About six months ago I had an opportunity to try my first wine from the Languedoc’s most honored wine maker, Paul Mas. I’ve recommended his Syrah and Viognier … Read more
It’s been less than a year since I started compiling a broad selection of wines for my site www.cheapandcheerful.ca. The goal is always to find a wine that overdelivers for the price. The Alceno 12 Messes from southern Spain is a case in point. It’s a dark ruby red blend of the Monastrell grape (Mourvedre … Read more
I’m always on the lookout for good table wines that qualify for CheapandCheerful.ca and this new red from Australia fits the bill. The Forbidden Red Blend from Urban Myth doesn’t disclose what grapes they use but I’m sure I tasted the fruit of merlot and the pepper of shiraz. It’s a delicious medium bodied wine with … Read more
There are times during a grey Vancouver winter when you need to channel summer. Usually that means a flight to Mexico, Hawaii or Palm Springs. The cheaper alternative is buying a wine that brings back memories of the patio and a steak on the BBQ. How fortunate I was to recently join friends in Kits for a … Read more
It’s always a treat as a wine drinker to try something that you’ve never had before and like it. That was the case for me when I dropped into Marquis Wines on Davie Street to try their Wines of the Week. Christine recommended Dominio de Tares Mencia Baltos and I’m a fan. Deep red in … Read more
For years my Joie Farm favorites were Noble Blend and Rose. Now I’ve added Chardonnay and the beautiful red blend PTG. Short for Passe Tout Grains. This is a delicious blend of Pinot Noir and Gamay and is familiar if you were visiting Burgundy. Joie has a deft touch as evidenced by their popularity and … Read more
There’s an interesting back story to this very drinkable red blend from California. Winemaker Daryl Groom created it with his son Colby who’s a volunteer with the American Heart Institute to raise money for cardiac research. It’s a pleasing blend of cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, shiraz, merlot and petit syrah. I always enjoy a well made … Read more