Looking for the perfect wine for the season? These local experts weigh in with their top picks for summer.
Unsworth Charme De L’ile Sparkling from the Cowichan Valley: Pamela Sanderson, Hire A Somm
“I like this Prosecco-style sparkling [wine] from the Cowichan Valley for its quality, price and versatility. Made with Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Sauvignette grapes, this wine is well-balanced with a soft fruitiness contrasted with a crisp freshness.
This could be enjoyed any time on its own, with a variety of canapés or a lovely seafood salad.”
Seven Directions Rosé from Summerland:Marly Luton, bar director, The Livet
“In the summer, if I’m drinking wine, I need it to be dry and refreshing. The Provence-style Pinot Noir rosé from Seven Directions is pale in colour, dry and full of fruit, with a hint of salt and cream. Seven Directions is winemaker Daniel Bontorin’s rosé project, making small-lot rosés from single vineyards and varieties. Pairs well with spinach salad, salmon, fresh tuna — or any patio.”
La Frenz Alexandria from Naramata Bench: Jon Derry, owner, The Collective Wine Bar & Kitchen
“Whenever I taste [La Frenz], it immediately makes me want to open a bottle with friends on the patio. It is a perfect summer wine! The Alexandria is nicely balanced between sweetness and acidity and has good complexity for the price. The nose has lovely hints of stone fruit, it has a great mouth feel and provides flavours of melon, citrus and tropical fruit with a beautifully smooth finish. I suggest pairing with oysters or roast chicken.”
This article is from the July/August 2019 issue of YAM.