I went from being an aspiring actress to cycling around Europe then earning a degree in linguistics and somehow ended up working in the wine industry. I guess it was a matter of following my heart. This love affair is coming up on two decades and is longest one I've had by far.
Wine remains just as fascinating to me today as it was when I took my first sip. I can think of no other beverage that has the ability to transport you to a specific place.
Wine also transforms dinner (as well as breakfast and lunch) from daily necessity to a memorable event and it makes dining companions and conversation way more interesting. I blame wine for converting me from vegetarian to omnivore. Before I could recommend wines to serve with lamb or sweetbreads, I needed to know what they tasted like. I fell head over heels immediately.
In my opinion, wine should be consumed regularly. It's best when shared and absolutely necessary with a meal. Following are just a few of my favourite things.
2011 Heggies, Chardonnay, Eden Valley, Australia $27.99 BC Liquor Stores
Full confessional, I have a weakness for Chardonnay. I also believe it's Australia's secret weapon. A light touch of oak gives this wine an appealing nuttiness. Baked pears and apples are balanced by a citrusy backbone. It makes me salivate for crab dipped in melted butter.
N/V Parés Baltà, Brut Organic, Cava DO, Spain $19.99 BC Liquor Stores
Cava is my go-to when I can't afford Champagne but need my bubble fix (a frequent occurrence). Creamy mousse, preserved lemon and scents of freshly baked bread waft from this characterful sparkler. Utterly cleansing with fish and chips or tempura.
2011 Valle dell'Acate, 'il Frappato' Vittoria Frappato DOC, Italy $24.99 BC Liquor Stores
Constant discovery is surely the foundation of my lasting relationship with wine and Italy always satisfies my desire for the weird and wonderful. Meet the charming Frappato grape from Sicily; a light but exuberant red bursting with succulent raspberry, wild strawberry and fresh flowers. If you aren't in the habit of eating sweetbreads, roast chicken is an equally great match.
2011 Koyle, Reserva Alto, Syrah, Colchagau Valley, Chile $18.99 BC Liquor Stores
A mouthful of blackcurrant, pepper and dried herbs with a touch of vanilla. This screams Chile to me. It also sings of Syrah and makes me hungry for a juicy steak. These are all good things.
2013 Orofino, 'Hendsbee Vineyard' Riesling, Similkameen Valley, BC $22 - 25 winery direct and private wine stores
I love that we have vines in our own backyard and am particularly enamoured by our local Rieslings. Orofino's is deliciously dry with lingering lime notes as well as lots and lots of mouthwatering acid. It works a treat with Thai cuisine.
