Wine Guy: Summer shiraz and more!
International Shiraz Day takes place the fourth Thursday of each July.
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Perhaps little known fact, but International Shiraz Day, or simply Shiraz Day for efficiency’s sake, takes place the fourth Thursday of each July. Which, for those taking count, happens to be July 24. Now this doesn’t mean that this week’s column will solely focus on Shiraz, but the occasion did provide motivation to reflect upon the prowess for Shiraz to pair with the grill — along with other summer excursions!
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Hester Creek 2022 Syrah, B.C.
(from $29.99, #504399)
With all this discussion of Shiraz, don’t be alarmed to see this bottle of Syrah. Hopefully by now it’s established that Shiraz and Syrah are the same grape, though in truth it does seem like the French Syrah has become the nomenclature of main choice. Including here in B.C., as evidenced by Hester Creek’s most recent estate-bottled Syrah. A lot of intentional wine-growing and winemaking went into this bottle (hand harvesting, Viognier co-ferment, extended oak aging), but the best review for this wine is that it absolutely sung served al fresco around the campfire with burgers and steaks.
Bottom line: A-, Fun and fulsome red.
Essay 2023 Red Blend, South Africa
Canucks Report
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($18.99 on sale until July 26, #341803)
Actually, Syrah/Shiraz may do its best work as a blending partner — at least as evidenced from many wine regions around the world. Thus it’s worth highlighting a new-to-shelves red blend from South Africa, which brings Syrah together with Cinsault, Grenache, and Mourvédre (in 37/28/27/8 composition for those keeping count!). It’s a classic southern French blend, but in this case Essay hails from South Africa (or S-A, get it?). Lots of boisterous berry and earthy aromas lead to a juicy entry bedecked with spice and herbs before a more savoury, balanced finish. Bring on anything grilled: chops or vegetables.
Bottom line: B, Summer-ready red.
CedarCreek Estate Winery 2024 Pinot Gris, crafted in B.C.
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($22.99 on sale until July 26, #364863)
It’s summer, not like there can only be red wine in the tasting glass. And not like there’s only robust protein or grilled hearty vegetables on the menu. So time for CedarCreek’s new Pinot Gris to shake up the Shiraz party — particularly since it pairs so well with lighter, fresher summer fare like pork lettuce wraps and Cobb salads. Given the challenges of the 2024 vintage, CedarCreek sourced this year’s Pinot Gris grapes from Oregon, but the wine still presents similarly fresh and fruity. Opulent pear and floral aromas lead into a textural, robust style with more orchard fruit and a round finish.
Bottom line: B+, Patio-savvy white.
The Swirl: Corks & Kegs 2025
Get ready, the third edition of Fort St. James’ Corks and Kegs is ready to kick off from 4-9 p.m. on Saturday, July 26 at the Fort St. James Historical Site (280 Kwah Road West). A beer and wine tasting fundraiser for the Fort St. James Community Foundation, guests can expect a great time with Northern B.C. beer and wine products to sample, showcased with local food, live music, raffles, and a silent auction — all on the shore of Stuart Lake. Tickets are $75 (plus fees), for complete details and to reserve a space head to eventbrite.ca/e/corks-kegs-2025-tickets-1443937127819.
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