I just came back from a couple weeks in Mexico and am quite excited about 2014.
Well learn more about the BC Liquor Policy Review that the province is looking to implement, and see how many of the proposed changes, such as liquor in grocery stores and happy hours, will roll out.
And Im looking forward to travelling to Chile, Germany and Washington State to dive deep into their respective vineyards and wineries, and of course seeing what the new year spells for the world of BC wine.
But I put in a fair amount of energy into exploring Mexican wines while I was there. Seriously; stay with me here.
Just as many people around the world are surprised there are good wines to be had from Canada, the same goes for Mexico. The main reason for this is volume theres simply not that much to go around. In fact, their production is currently around two million cases, which is roughly the same level as British Columbias current output.
Theyve been at it a tad longer though; Spanish settlers planted vines in the 16th century. In fact, Mexico has been producing wine longer than any other country in the Americas. While 90 per cent of their production comes from the Baja Peninsula (which enjoys a similar climate to Napa), a high concentration of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium in their soil has been known to occasionally add a slight salty character to their wines, often making them a bit of an acquired taste.
While I found a good dose of Viogniers, Chenin Blancs, Merlots and Syrahs that were quite impressive, the availability of Mexican wine in our market is quite scarce. In saying that, I was able to track down one label Id quite enjoyed:
L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo | Baja California, Mexico | $30-ish | Private Wine Stores
While I, and wine fans, may immediately think Barolo or Barbaresco when the Nebbiolo grape is mentioned, I was quite pleased to find many of the typical aromas and flavours youd find back in Italy here, from tar and roses to dried fruit and chocolate. The style definitely leans New World though, a little more ripe, generous fruit and a mouthfeel thats quite rich and velvety. Grilled meats, wild mushrooms and very big wine glasses will serve it well. You can track a bottle down at Brewery Creek on Main Street, the Liberty Wines outlets at Granville Island and Park Royal in West Van, and a handful of other private stores.
Atop my inbox upon my return was a note about a pretty cool event, allowing you to discover why Im often keen to recommend the wines of Meyer Family Vineyards of Okanagan Falls.
On January 15 at 6pm, winery owner JAK Meyer will be presenting a side by side single vineyard sampling, including their Gold Medal Reimer Vineyard Pinot Noir and Platinum Medal McLean Creek Road Chardonnay, alongside a four-course feast at Forage on Robson Street.
Ive long been a fan of Chef Chris Whittakers hyper-local, sustainable fare; it should dovetail quite nicely with Meyers bright, elegant wines.
The whole things just 65 bucks plus tax and tip. Track down tickets, and quick, at ForageVancouver.com.
As always, if youre having trouble finding something or just want to say hi, find me via KurtisKolt.com or on Twitter @KurtisKolt.
