We are rapidly racing toward the shortest day of the year. You know that day when you leave for work in the dark and return home in the same bleak blackness. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it is just around the corner. Even if you do see the light of day, it is highly likely to be grey and rainy.
When you start feeling light deprived and sun starved, it's tempting to jump on the next plane south for an intense jolt of vitamin D. In lieu of Hawaii or Mexico, vitamin W is a darn fine substitute. In particular, I recommend wines that soak up copious rays and radiate them all back in the glass. Here's a few that I guarantee you'll be able to taste the sunshine. They'll also work a treat with cold weather fare.
2013 Argiolas 'Costamolino' • Vermentino di Sardegna DOC, Italy • $17.99, BC Liquor Stores
A grape after my own heart, Vermentino is a sun seeker. It’s one of those rare white varieties that actually really likes being in the warmest of climates. So imagine how happy it is on the island of Sardinia (Sardegna). Lemon balm and anise meet pineapple and apricot. Fairly rich but still refreshingly crisp, it has the stuffing to stand up to a pork roast.
2011 Glen Carlou, Grand Classique • Paarl WO, South Africa • $19.99, BC Liquor Stores
The southern hemisphere is heading into the longer, lighter days so perhaps that is why I am suddenly drawn to this bold Bordeaux blend from Paarl. Blackberry, leather, coffee, exotic spice and chocolate supported by plush tannin make it very appropriate for a meaty braise.
2013 Domaine Regis Boucabeille ‘Les Terrasses’ • Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages AOC, France • $20.49, BC Liquor Stores
Snuggled up next to the border of Spain, Roussillon is the sunniest (and driest) corner of France. The region is a treasure trove of old vine Grenache which thrives in balmy temperatures. Here it is blended with Syrah and Carignan giving a wine that is generous and laden with raspberry, plum, dried herbs, lavender and black olives. It begs for leg of lamb.
2014 Miraval Rosé • Côtes-de-Provence AOC, France • $28.99, BC Liquor Stores
I will never stop plugging pink year round, particularly the pale-hued offerings from Provence. Nothing captures the essence of summer better. So why wouldn’t you want to drink it when the sun has gone into hiding? The Miraval exudes the pretty blossoms of a more temperate season and recalls all of those succulent red berries we were scarfing down not long ago. For optimal autumn enjoyment, pair with a robust and warming fish stew.
Alvear, ‘Solera 1927’ Pedro Ximénez • Montilla-Moriles DO, Spain • $27.29, (375ml) BC Liquor Stores
In the arid reaches of Andalucia (that’s southern Spain) a grape by the name of Pedro Ximénez basks in the abundant rays. It's then sun dried to concentrate all of its sugar and made into a lusciously sweet fortified wine. Think fig, toasted walnut, toffee, creamy caramel and sultanas. It is the ultimate treat poured over ice cream no matter what the temperature outside.
