Chula Tapas: A Taste of Spain in Penticton’s Brewery District

We were in Penticton for a couple of days, so I reached out to my good friend Melannie for some local dining tips. Without a moment’s hesitation, she said, “Go to Chula — it’s my favourite tapas bar.” That was all the encouragement we needed. Chula is a small, 23-seat restaurant tucked away on a … Read more

Evolve Sparkling House Opens in Penticton

Evolve, the latest addition to the TIME Family of Wines, is dedicated to traditional-method sparkling wines, and right out of the gate has won many prestigious awards on both the national and international stage. The modern, chic tasting room was designed to impress.  Every detail celebrates bubbles–from the sparkling décor to the playful energy that … Read more

From the Cellar with @Sam_WineTeacher

In addition to the weekly wine review and the various other, usually wine-related, articles I write for My Van City, I am going to include a new one that will appear from time to time.  I’m calling it, ‘From the Cellar’. It will be similar to the wine reviews, except that it will feature aged … Read more

Wednesday Wine Reviews with @Sam_WineTeacher

NV Charme De L’Ile (Sparkling Rosé) Blue Grouse Duncan, BC $29.99 Made with 100% Cowichan Valley Gamay Noir, this wine is cherry red with medium-plus intensity.  The nose is fruity with aromas of bramble, red currant, cranberry, and cherry, along with hints of strawberry, vanilla, and banana.  These pleasing aromas are carried on over to … Read more

From the Cellar with @Sam_WineTeacher

In addition to the weekly wine review and the various other, usually wine-related, articles I write for My Van City, I am going to include a new one that will appear from time to time.  I’m calling it, ‘From the Cellar’. It will be similar to the wine reviews, except that it will feature aged … Read more

Wednesday Wine Reviews with @Sam_WineTeacher

  2022 Pinot Gris Mayhem Okanagan Falls, BC $18.36 Pale straw colour with medium-light intensity.  Lots of citrus on the nose – lemon and lime zest, apple, pear, stone fruit, mineral, undertones and a touch of honeysuckle.  Good balance.  Citrus flavours dominate the palate along with honey followed by a medium-plus finish.  A great value … Read more