These last few months have been a particularly long slog. By mid-February, I usually start seeing the light at the end of the tunnel but, this year, all I can visualize is another dump of snow.
Rather than wishing away these final dark days before the blossoms burst, look at the bright side. There's still time to bundle up at home by the fire with a hearty meal and a glass of gutsy red! Short of leaving town, it's the best remedy for the winter blues.
Chances are you're already quite familiar with this therapy. So much so, in fact, that you may be growing weary of your usual repertoire of warming wines. Need some rich and ripe suggestions to survive the final dreary stretch? My research spanned an arsenal of sturdy contenders, from seeking comfort in familiar favourites like Cab, Syrah and Malbec, to searching out exciting lesser-known gems to escape the doldrums.
Before long, we'll all be lightening up with salads and refreshing whites. In the meantime, here's a few more robust reds to keep the morale high.
2015 Paul Mas Gardemiel Vineyard, Malbec • IGP Pays d'Oc, France • $13.99 BC Liquor Stores
If you are a fan of Malbec, then check out this one from its motherland of France. Subtle earthiness but suitably forward and friendly, with loads of blackberry, dried herbs and licorice. And the price is right for a midweek beef stew on a cold and rainy night.
2013 Majella, 'The Musician' Cabernet Shiraz • Coonawarra, Australia • $18.99 BC Liquor Stores
Here, classic Coonawarra Cab with cassis and mint nuances is plumped up with Shiraz for some added intrigue of chocolate and blueberry. This full-bodied, crowd-pleasing red offers great value for the money and will bring excitement to humble Shepherd’s Pie.
2012 Casajus, 'Seleccionada' Ribera del Duero DO • Spain • $20.99 BC Liquor Stores
Ribera del Duero's hot arid days and nippy nights make for a particularly robust expression of Tempranillo. The Casajus offers roasted coffee and vanilla with wild strawberry and boysenberry. It's a chewy mouthful that deserves a rib-sticking braise or juicy steak.
2013 Casale del Giglio, Cesanese, IGT • Lazio, Italy • $23.99 BC Liquor Stores
Take this introspective time to discover something new. Cesanese is yet another worthy example of Italy's fascinating native grapes. Ripe and fleshy red cherries, cinnamon and lifted violet notes meet soft, plush, mouth-caressing tannin. Perfect for an equally exotic Moroccan lamb tagine.
2015 Domaine des Lises, Crozes-Hermitage AOC • France • $33.99 BC Liquor Stores
If you're in need of a serious antidote to inclement weather, this Northern Rhône Syrah bridges the seasons. Dark brooding plums and snappy black pepper are countered by floral fragrances hinting at spring. Firm and full yet polished and elegant, it is a treat with lentils and duck sausage.
• Prices exclusive of taxes.
