Best BC Bottles: Celebrate BC Cabernet Franc on International Cabernet Franc Day.Let the celebrations this December 4th ring out the good news and good taste that Cabernet Franc offers wine lovers everywhere. Cheers to BC wine. Use hashtag #cabfrancday and post your pics on social.
BC's Pinotage Is The Perfect Wine For A Thanksgiving PairingRustling vine leaves are turning from green to golden, as breezes turn cool and temperatures drop. Fall has arrived. It's a light grape harvest this year for BC's Okanagan vineyards. The arctic chill of the last two winters has resulted in scant bunches of berries and vine death broadly across wine country . Despite this, the community is resilient and there is much for which to be thankful including the visionary pioneers who first planted grapes, from vines that were smuggled into the country as clippings, inside suitcases and even coat pockets. Brazen for sure. But without audacity and dreams, Pinotage, for example, would not be here. What is Pinotage, you ask? Why South Africa's signature red grape variety and a style that loves life here in BC. All you have to do is taste and you'll agree, this is a style for that Pinot lovers can get behind. Here are my recommendations from The View Winery & Vineyard and Stoneboat Vineyards - two BC wineries that embrace Pinotage.
Red, White & Rosé All OverWhere did the time go? Have you asked yourself that question? I know I have. In what may have been the hottest July on record, the days went by quickly with early morning hikes up Knox Mountain and afternoon swims in the lake. I found myself living as if I were in Spain, surviving the heat between 4 pm and 8 pm with a siesta. With 38C temperatures for many weeks in July and early August, I was not sure I would survive and thought often of those helpless grapes (what few there are) hanging from the vine, hoping they had enough canopy to protect them. Vines do shut down at 35C and roots tend to go deep in search of moisture for survival. After the deep winter freeze that killed many vines (including the old vine Syrah at Nichol), the incredible heat units this summer definitely challenged grapes survival. If you are a winelover then you are like me, worried.
Good Wine, Good Food & Good Times in KelownaSummer is here, and the time is right—right now! With perfect weather in Kelowna, there's something for everyone. Whether you love the lake, the vineyards, hiking, or fine dining, you’ve got options. Here’s a curated list of events, restaurants, wineries, and stories you won’t want to miss if you’re in Kelowna or planning a visit in the next few weeks. Follow the links, book online, and cheers to you and a hot summer in Kelowna!
Taylor's Serves Up "Portonic" In Recyclable CansPortugal is an historic country on the Atlantic seaboard of the west coast of the Iberian peninsula and it has captured the world's attention. Whether the attraction to Portugal is for its affordability, beauty or history, it seems that Taylor’s Port has also found its moment in the sun. Taylor's is an iconic brand with a storied past, making tawny, ruby, white and vintage port - most especially the sweet, powerful, age-worthy, collectible vintage wines. Tradition aside, Taylor's recently launched Portonic, a port based cocktail in the ready-to-drink category (RTD), available only in recyclable aluminium cans. Will Port be rolling off the tongues of new, young enthusiasts? With sustainable practices on one hand and consumer focus on the other, Taylor’s is looking to the future.
Good Life Vancouver is an online magazine from editor and publisher Cassandra Anderton, devoted to what’s happening and what's good, in and around Vancouver, and sometimes beyond, like the Okanagan, Vancouver Island and wherever she may wander. If you are looking for dining, drinking and cool destination recommendations and reviews, Good Life Vancouver has you covered. Good Wine Gal shares Good Wine on Good Life Vancouver Online MagazineGood Wine Gals Mingle at the Women in Wine Expo 2024 in Porto, Portugal. Here's what happened.In the heart of iconic, picturesque and historic Porto, 97 women from 27 countries gathered for two full days to explore women-led initiatives in wine, on topics from old vines to new grapes, reducing carbon emissions to sustainable solutions. It's because of one woman, Senay Ozdemir, whose inspired vision to raise the profile of women in wine, that this event is in its fourth year. With excellent event hosts, Taylor's Port, WoW Cultural District and The Rebello Hotel & Spa, along with a full roster of presentations and wine tastings, this event succeeded in bringing together historic beauty and modern issues. The consensus among the attendees was that the Women in Wine Expo exceeded expectations. Here are five highlights from this fantastic event and why I’ll be attending next year.
Daring Greatly with 2022 GSM from BC's Award Winning Hester Creek WineryYou might say 2022 GSM from Hester Creek Winery is beguiling. It's profile and complexity fans of Meryl Streep in the Devil Wears Prada. The ruby hue is classic, the sensory profile is full of attitude red, black and blue fruits with a floral backdrop and peppery spice and the dry, textured finish. Its a nod to expertise and a great vintage, like the persona of Miranda Priestly. This daring and bold idea from a British Columbia winery, challenging established wines of France, Australia and even Washington State, is audacious. It's a new style for BC and it's cultivated by the changing climate and clever winemakers. Here is the story about an exceptional wine experience from Hester Creek Estate Winery and their new and daring release of 2022 GSM - Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre.
Women in Wine? Sustainability?The three pillars of "sustainablity" are: People (social), Planet (environmental) and Profits (economics). Without respect, understanding of application and attention to outcomes for all three, simultaneously, we have nothing. A few years ago, Cassandra Anderton and I started talking about the lack of women principals attending the Vancouver International Wine Festival. We would review the list of 150 attendees with difficulty because there were so few women on the roster. Sadly even in 2024, the list hasn't grown longer. It's hard to find the data on women participating in the industry, but at a conference in Italy, it was stated that 2% of the Italian winemakers are women. That number seems very low. The numbers are higher in the "new world" of wine. This realization inspired us to continue to reach out and interview women who are principals or winemakers in both BC and abroad. This year, because of the wonderful connection I have with Lucila Plana of Patagonia Imports, I met Marica Bonomo of Monte del Fra, a women who is no stranger to the wine world and being a leader in it.
Meet Jesce Baessler from Corcelettes Estate WineryWhat does it take to transition into the wine business? Meet this charming personality that is the face of Corcelettes Estate Winery in the Similkameen Valley of beautiful British Columbia. Jesce Baessler fell in love 15 years ago and now finds herself deeply involved in the wine industry with husband/partner Charlie. Originally from the great white north, Jesce thought she was going to be a veterinarian, but those plans were forever altered after spending a summer with her mom in Cawston. Now Jesce spends her time between raising a family and hosting guests at the Winery. If you haven't visited the "organic farming capital" of BC, now is the time. Thanks for a great chat Jesce.
Meet Lyndsay O'Rourke from Tightrope WineryMeet Naramata Bench winemaker, Lyndsay O'Rourke and hear about her journey to wine. After a hospitality career in Whistler she headed with her husband Graham to New Zealand to study at Lincoln University where she found her science and agricultural undergrad degree came in very handy. Lyndsay is an award winning winemaker and working with her viticulturist husband, the team at Tightrope is making world class wine.
Meet Alison Moyes & Taste Solvero WinesAlthough she refers to herself as a bit of a science geek, Alison Moyes is all charm and grace. She has spent more than a decade in the Okanagan Valley making a name for herself, so much so, that her reputation precedes her. Her 2016 Liquidity Chardonnay won "Chardonnay Du Monde". Originally from Ontario, Alison studied at both Dalhousie and then Brock University where she completed her thesis on the tasting sensitivities between the sexes. Who do you think came out on top? Women of course.
Introducing Good Wine Gal's YouTube ChannelSometimes you just have to stretch yourself. Can I do it? I'm stepping into the world of video (long & short) on YouTube. Inspirational wine people who have gone before me like Gary Vee, Konstantin Baum and Dr Matthew Horkey. They make it look easy. Now, I'm grabbing my confidence, like a saber and looping the cap on creativity off! Good Wine Gal videos and podcast are on YouTube. Cheers to raising the profile of BC's good wine guys and gals. Here is my first interview with Benoit Gauthier, Director of Viticulture and Winemaking at Noble Ridge Winery, Okanagan Falls, BC. He's terrific.
Effingham Oysters Love BC Sparkling Wine at Tofino Oyster Fest 2023"With a delicate balance of brininess, sweetness, and a subtle cucumber-like finish, Effingham Pacific Oysters showcase the terroir of their cool, coastal region. These oysters are renowned for their exceptional taste imparted by the nutrient-rich Barkley sound, and the waters in which they are grown. As a wine gal and East Coast oyster lover, I was pleasantly surprised by these West Coat gems. To learn more about Effingham oysters and a couple of wine pairings, read on.
Are you keen to live a great wine life? If so, read on. In my experience, some of the most memorable moments come from the spontaneous and imperfect happenings. While I can't accept imperfect bubbles, I have fun ideas to spark more pleasure. On February 14th, why not shuck Effingham oysters or cook and eat prawns in their shells, together with your love. Turn meal prep into a Valentine's Day feast that is tasty, funny and collaborative. If you look after the entrée, I've got you covered with pink champagne recommendations. Think Pink for a Perfect Valentine's Day BubbleLove doesn't just happen on February 14th. It's everyday in everyway. But if you miss the opportunity to shower your loved one with love, you might end up getting the cold shoulder or worse, ghosted. It won't take but a few minutes and a little effort to make your lover feel special and isn't that the key to a happy life? If you are looking for the perfect sip to celebrate your love, check out these beauties. Paired with a few oysters on the half shell and boom - perfection. My advice, don't skip over or skimp on Valentine's Day.
The sun came out from behind the clouds. The sky went from dark to light, the temperature from chilly to warm, and suddenly it all came together. As the breakers crashed on the beach in front of the Best Western Tin Wis the mood lifting effect was immediate. There I was, with a skewer of grilled Humboldt squid and a sip of Anthony Buchanan’s Pinot Blanc in my glass and this "good wine" gal was in gourmet heaven at the Tofino Wine & Dine in Tofino, B.C. Tofino Wine & Dine is Divine!When was the last time you visited Tofino and the Pacific Rim National Park? A road trip in 2023 rekindled my love for this amazing beach destination. If you need a reason to visit, read on. Attending the Tofino Wine & Dine in June and the Tofino Oyster Fest in November were highlights in 2023 for this wine gal.
Famous Hungarian FurmintFurmint, (pronounced "For-Mint") is a white wine grape variety indigenous to the Tokaj region of Hungary where it is grown predominantly and used in the making of sparking, sweet and dry white wine. February 1st marks #furmintday, the social media online celebration and the first of the World Wine Days in 2024. Join the conversation by grabbing a bottle, inviting a friend and sampling the best that Hungary has to offer. Take a few pictures, and upload to Instagram and Facebook using the hashtag #furmintday. Join the conversation and meet other wine lovers as the World Wine Days celebrations kick off 2024. If you haven't downloaded the calendar, click for your copy.
5 "Champagne Lover" Destinations for 2024Whether you are heading to Italy, France, Spain, South Africa or Australia this year or planning a staycation in BC, this list is for you. Here are my top 5 destinations for bubbles for 2024.
43 Reasons to Celebrate WineYou don't have to give me a reason to sip my favorite beverage for I'm a passionate wine gal. But I have studied and am fully invested in the wine business. What if you are just beginning to advance your wine life? Could I offer 43 reasons to join me? Check out the 2024 World Wine Days Calendar. It makes learning about wine fun and easy. It's also a free and instantly downloadable file that anyone can use. The only other steps: get a bottle; invite a friend; and post a picture with the appropriate hashtag to meet up where wine lovers will be celebrating on Facebook and Instagram. If at first you don't succeed, there are 42 more reasons to try again. Celebrate and learn about the wine world's favorite varieties with the 2024 World Wine Days Calendar. It's a low cost and easy way to move the needle on your wine education.
Good Wine Gal's 5 Wine Predictions for 2024Happy New Year Wine Lover! How was your holiday? I was surrounded by family and friends, playing games, hiking in the woods, sipping good wine and noshing all kinds of deliciousness. I'm optimistic about 2024 as a result. This year I am celebrating my decade in the wine industry. To kick things off, I'm going to share my bold predictions which are: continued growth in sparkling wine; winery efforts to reduce environmental impacts; the continued interest in Italian Wine; rise of non-alcoholic beverages; and wines from lesser known regions. Let me know what you think by leaving your comments below. If you like good wine, good food and good friends, keep in touch and I'll look forward to sharing it all with you in 2024.
Wow with Sparkling Wines Under $25Let's wrap 2023 up in a neat bow and toss into the past. It's time to take stock of all that has transpired. The wine cellar is a bit more depleted, the friends are more scattered around the globe than I would prefer and travel is confounded by wars and tensions. Whatever the case, its time sip something to raise our spirits. Why not bubbles!?! Some might argue I'm addicted to champagne, but I could think of worse things. Truth is, I'm addicted to the occasions that can be celebrated with a white wine glass full of a elixir of dry, racy aromas and flavours supported by tiny, delicate pearls. I like the effervescence that bubbles bring to my palate and mood. Add a few oysters on the half shell and we've got a party. Because I like to share, here is my short list of bargains to help you ring in the New Year. December 4th is Cab Franc DayOn International Cabernet Franc Day, wine enthusiasts around the world come together to celebrate this grape's unique qualities and the wines it produces, from the vibrant Okanagan Valley to the historic vineyards of France's Loire Valley and so much more. Thanks to Lori Budd of Dracaena Wines for establishing this day. Let’s raise a glass to Cabernet Franc, its history and style. Sip, sip, hooray! If you need recommendations read on. It's Beaujolais Nouveau time!Beaujolais Nouveau, known for its youthful fresh and fruity character, became a global phenomenon in the 60s and 70s. For wine enthusiasts across the globe, the third Thursday in November (this year November 16th) was and is a day to celebrate the end of harvest with a drink of young wine - so young that it went from vine to bottle in eight weeks. Despite it's lack of complexity, it symbolizes joy and the culmination of a year's hard work in the vineyards. While the excitement of Beaujolais Nouveau Day is no longer as raucous as it once was, the raison d’etre remains. Beaujolais Nouveau, if you can find a bottle, is not meant for aging. It is best served chilled at 13 degrees Celsius. It is perfect for a casual sip or pairing with soft mild cheeses. Raise your glass wine lovers and join the online conversation with the Beaujolais Nouveau Day. Use hashtag #BeaujolaisNouveauDay and post your style on Facebook & Instagram.
Can you believe it's Canada Day already? We are at the halfway point of 2023. That begs the question: what's next winelover? Are you planning a trip to wine country, stocking a cellar or plannign a party? Please don't hestitate to reach out for support. That's why I'm here doing what I do. I love wine and I like to help.
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AUTHORI'm Good Wine Gal.
I blog about "good wine" and how to find it! Join me on my adventures of finding beautiful wine loving places, people and those special bottles we all get excited about. Archives
October 2024
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