Anthony Buchanan Wines: My 'Blind Date' with BC's Winemaking Rebel (and Why You Need a Taste)

Let's chat about wine that truly connects – the kind that you think about long after you've sipped and enjoyed. It's not just price point, it's more. Because in a world of endless options, discovering a bottle with genuine soul? That’s priceless. And if you haven't yet met the magic of Anthony Buchanan Wines, get ready. These aren't just bottles; they're moments in time that seem unforgettable. Just like out first date.

For me, that magic began way back in 2017. It was a blind date. My wine pal, Shanyn Ward, was practically waxing poetic about these bottles, and honestly, her enthusiasm was all I needed. I ordered them sight unseen - I was the BC wine buyer at Legacy Liquor Store in Vancouver, BC. Let me tell you, that first sip was an instant "aha!" moment and my customers agreed. Turns out, even back then, Anthony Buchanan was already making waves, not just with his own label, but also as the consulting winemaker at Desert Hills. From hair stylist to crafting liquid art, Anthony's journey was a deep dive, learning his craft in Washington State, where he first discovered Petit Sirah. Back home in Kaleden, Buchanan is channeling his passion for minimal intervention and honest winemaking into every bottle. (P.S. His tasting room, while closed for 2024, might just open its doors in 2025, so keep an eye out!). ​

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Taking A Chance

​While Anthony's heart is firmly in BC, sometimes Mother Nature throws a curveball, like the death frost spiral of the last two years here in the Okanagan Valley. That's where his Pacific Northwest Series comes into play. This was Buchanan's chance to explore varietals from Washington State that truly resonate with his style, creating a dialogue between regions. For instance, his Chenin Blanc from this series is, simply put, star power. While BC doesn't always nail Chenin, this bottle is a showstopper. Imagine freshly picked apples, hay, ripe pear, and lemon-lime zest, all underpinned by an incredible, almost stony minerality. It's clean, bright, and endlessly intriguing. 

Magic in the Glass

Then there’s the Petit Sirah (Durif). This was Anthony’s "pet project" for the 2024 vintage with Washington grapes. It’s bright, fragrant, and absolutely delicious, a powerhouse with an inky, deep color, bursting with rich fruit like blueberry, dark chocolate, and plums, and a spicy kick of black pepper. And the Mourvèdre? Oh, it’s a serious player. It’s got a fresh, fleshy texture, with brightness, structure, and flavor that truly lasts. I recently enjoyed it with some incredible beef bulgogi and even octopus marinated in miso – a truly epic pairing

Ready for Your Blind Date

Anthony Buchanan Wines are more than just a glass of wine; they’re liquid passion, with an unwavering commitment to crafting authentic, soulful wines. Whether it’s his classic BC expressions or these exciting Pacific Northwest explorations, if you’re ready for a wine blind date, to discover something truly authentic, seek out these bottles. Trust me on this one. Available online so go forth and explore at: anthonybuchananwines.ca. You're welcome. 

And if you are looking for a fun in Kelowna check out the BC Wine Tasting Challenge and June 25th blind tasting at the Lakehouse Kitchens hosted by yours truly. If you love Rosé, you'll love this. It's a BC vs Provence taste off. Who will win? You get to be the judge. Book now. This event will sell out. Thanks for reading and thank you for your ongoing love and kindness. MUAH!