We have control over very little in life, least of all the weather. Vancouver is well known for its unique month of Jun-uary and as much as we complain, it’s soon forgotten when fairer July rolls around. This year, we’re still waiting. While it doesn’t have the same ring, I’ve heard people muttering about Jul-uary under their breath.
One way to beat the weather is to drink like the sun is shining. Yes, that means sticking to your summer regime of crisp whites, cool rosés and light, refreshing reds. These will trick your mind into thinking it’s truly summer in every way. Repeat often enough and it may even inspire the sun to return.
2015 Bees Knees, Chenin Blanc-Viognier, Western Cape, South Africa $11.99 BC Liquor Stores
Here’s a juicy little number from South Africa. With 80 per cent Chenin Blanc in the blend, there is plenty of mouthwatering acidity. The remaining touch of Viognier adds exotic aromas and flavours. Equally delicious with a prawn and pineapple salad or chips and salsa. And the price is really right, too.
2015 Jaun Gil, ‘Honoro Vera’ Rosé, Jumilla DO, Spain $18-19 Private Wine Stores
I’ll admit that the glitzy label tricked me into thinking this would be sweet. I was pleasantly surprised to be proven wrong. And even though it hails from the sultry reaches of southern Spain, alcohol is kept in check (12.5%). A blend of Tempranillo and Syrah, it possesses lovely nuances of melon, raspberry and wild thyme. Made for grazing on simple tapas.
2015 Mirabeau, ‘Pure’ Rosé, Côtes de Provence AOP, France $28.99 BC Liquor Stores
If you let the summer pass you by without regularly drinking rosé, you’ll regret it when September arrives. Now is the time to sample your way through all of those pretty pinks from Provence that came in just for the season. ‘Pure’ is a classic and classy blend of Grenache and Syrah that encapsulates the lightness of summer. Mineral driven, sinewy, clean and dry, it whispers notes of red currant and rainier cherries.
2014 Medici Ermete, ‘Concerto’ Lambrusco Reggiano DOC, Italy $19.99 BC Liquor Stores
There is nothing like Lambrusco to put a smile on your face, whatever the weather. Dry, frothy and red, the Concerto is made from the Lambrusco Salamino grape and packs in all of the delicious seasonal berries you can imagine, along with a handful of fragrant flowers. Cheerful summer in a glass, though I can guarantee you’ll be drinking this year-round after trying it. This exuberant mouthful is excellent with grilled meat or just snacking on salami. Serve chilled.
2015 Carawine, ‘Camper’ Bianco Terre Siciliane IGT, Italy $32.99 3.0 L BC Liquor Stores
Rain or shine, the summer calls for large casual gatherings and outdoor excursions. When your gang is braving the elements, packing a Bag in Box is the way to go. Until Carawine, the pickings have been uninspiring. First of all, the packaging is delightful. More importantly, the wine is perfectly quaffable. A light, dry and thirst-quenching blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc with delicate flavours of lemon and apple. What more do you want?
Prices exclusive of taxes.
