No matter how long you’ve been out of school, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the back-to-school frenzy. But for those who are actually heading back to the classroom, this time of year is particularly sobering. Hours of serious studying lie ahead and bills may already mounting with money spent on textbooks, tuition and school supplies.
This is not the time to give up wine. A glass (or two) can provide some levity and shouldn’t add to your financial woos. It’s simply a matter of sharpening your shopping skills and sniffing out the real deals. Cheaper doesn’t make a bad wine taste better. It has to deliver at its regular price to really excite me when it goes on sale. I’ve been trolling the BC Liquor Stores shelves for the best of this month’s limited time offers (LTOs). You have until this Saturday, Aug. 29, to take advantage of those listed below.
2014 Ormarine, ‘Les Pins de Camille’ Picpoul de Pinet • Coteaux du Languedoc AOC, France • LTO $13.39(reg. $14.79)
I love this wine at the regular price. Now with that LTO tag, I can’t walk by it without picking up a bottle. Southern French white grape variety Picpoul makes for a light yet vibrant and lemony mouthful. A simple tipple to counter the complex intellectual challenges ahead. It pairs well with salads and veggies.
2011 Heitlinger, ‘Shiny River’ Riesling • Germany • $13.82* (reg. $19.04)
According to my calculations, that’s over $5 off. And it’s a great example of a mouth-wateringly dry Riesling from Germany. Lime zest and wet stone meet apricot. I can attest to its terrific compatibility with chimichurri pork and spicy green beans. Savings exclusively at Marquis Wine Cellars until end of day on Sun, Aug 30th.
José Maria da Fonseca, ‘Periquita’ • Setúbal, Portugal • $8.79
No, this wine isn’t on sale. It’s simply ALWAYS a bargain. My go-to when money is at its tightest. Soft and friendly with ripe raspberries, red plum and a slight earthiness, it’s equally adept at taking on summer burgers as it is autumn stews.
2013 Santa Carolina, ‘B Blend’ • Valle del Cachapoal, Chile • LTO $11.29 (reg. $14.29)
The B Blend brings together herbal Carmènere, juicy Grenache and lush Merlot. Think leather, pepper and mint with black currant, prune and coffee on palate. Three bucks off takes this from reasonably priced to downright economical. Barbecue friendly, because there’s sure to be a few more before you hit the books.
2013 Château de Pierreux • Brouilly AOC, France • LTO $16.99 (reg. $19.29)
This isn’t exactly cheap but a savings of over $2 is enough to entice me to pick up a couple of bottles so I can satisfy my Beaujolais craving whenever it arises. Summer is not officially over yet and I’m still enjoying my light-bodied, red-berried, slightly chilled reds. (PS I actually drink these year round.)
*Private wine stores only, prices may vary. All other wines available at BC Liquor Stores. All prices exclusive of taxes.
