Wine Guy: 3 redolent B.C. red wines to ride out final weeks of winter

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Finally, the end is near! The winter season is drawing to a close and, frankly, I can’t wait for spring to be sprung. I can almost taste it — or perhaps that’s just the juicy, aromatic reds currently occupying the tasting glass. Sipping one of these bright, exuberant B.C. wines will certainly aid in chasing away any lingering winter blues.

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Meyer Family Vineyards 2023 Okanagan Valley Pinot Noir, Okanagan Falls ($25.30, available through the winery)

B.C’s 2023 reds are starting to arrive on shelves, which in itself is something to cheer — with empathetic gratitude given the very difficult vintage conditions. In Meyer’s case, the award-winning winery produced 1,822 cases of their main, four vineyard-sourced Pinot. Not a huge amount, which is why it’s worth checking out this gregarious, silky Pinot sooner than later. Engaging aromatics of red fruit, flowers and herbal notes kick off this juicy and seductive red, complemented by vibrant acidity and slight spice on a balanced finish. There’s a lot of wine for the price here, not to mention a myriad of pairing options: from pizza to roast pork.

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Bottom line: A-. Serious value

Nk’Mip Cellars 2021 Talon, Osoyoos ($29.99, #374884)

Named after the mythical Thunderbird, Talon is a unique B.C. blend. A mélange of Syrah, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir (in 40/23/22/10/5 composition for those keeping track), it oozes notes of berry, desert brush and chocolate in a robust yet approachable style overall. Each wine was vinified separately and spent 18 months aging in a combo of French and American oak before final assemblage. The result in the glass is harmonious and full-bodied, but with a lively tension. Bring on the complete Sunday roast dinner, or even a mushroom and barley stew.

Bottom line: A. Toothsome and engaging

Blue Grouse Estate Winery 2022 Pinot Noir, Cowichan Valley ($39.99, available through the winery)

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Finally, it’s over to the island for another lively local Pinot Noir that will shake off any late cases of the S.A.D.S. Specifically, the Cowichan Valley and Blue Grouse Estate Winery. This is an honest cool-climate Pinot Noir. It checks in at a modest 11 per cent A.B.V. and pours a bright, light ruby, while wafting aromas of red berry and forest floor. Partly whole cluster fermented and aged in both amphora and oak, the wine is both fruity and savoury — all while maintaining a palate-pleasing liveliness before a punchy, balanced finish. This is great food wine, delicious with a charcuterie plate or takeout Thai.

Bottom line: A-. Authentic Van Isle Pinot!

The Swirl: Iconic Wineries of BC Wine Dinner

As part of its ongoing Wine Dinner Series, Water St. Cafe (300 Water St., Vancouver) is hosting an Iconic Wineries of B.C. Wine Dinner. Taking place from 6-10 p.m. on March 19, the plated five-course dinner features wine pairings from Mission Hill, Martin’s Lane, CedarCreek and Checkmate Artisanal Winery. Tickets are $129 per person (taxes and gratuity not included). For the complete menu and reservations head to waterstreetcafe.ca/whats-happening/the-iconic-wineries-of-bc. 

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