Wine Guy: Crafted in B.C. Rosé

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Time to toast the province and take advantage of the summer long weekend by raising a glass of locally made Rosé. Of course, for the majority of B.C. wineries that saw massive crop loss last year the 2024 vintage Rosés are different. But thanks to perseverance and partnerships, fortunately there are many crafted in B.C. Rosés ready to pair with the occasion. Cheers to B.C.

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Road 13 Honest John’s 2024 Grown in Washington Rosé

($20.99, #270047)

Most Okanagan and Similkameen Valley wineries impacted by the 2024 frosts headed to Washington state to source fruit for their crafted in B.C. wines. Such was the case for the latest Honest John’s Rosé from Road 13, as clearly indicated on the label. Specifically, this is a boisterous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Grenache (in 45/22/19/10/4 composition). But you don’t really need to know that to appreciate all the easygoing freshness and aromatic berry and melon. Dry, fruity, and fun, this is a fantastic Rosé to pair with backyard cookouts and grill sessions.

Bottom line: B+, Bring on the burgers and tacos.

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Orofino Few and Far Between Washington Series 2024 Cinsault Rosé

($24.95, available through the winery)

Similarly, Cawston-based Orofino looked to Washington vineyards for their Few and Far Between series. However, the winery decided to work with grape varieties that they don’t grow in their Similkameen vineyards. Hence their Cinsault Rosé, which hails from an organically grown vineyard 430 kilometres from the winery in the higher elevation, Naches Heights appellation. Pouring a fetching pale shade of onion skin and wafting floral, melon, and herbal aromas, this leaner style Rosé brings great, zippy intensity along with mineral vibes before a dry, lip-smacking finish. It’s unique treat, but act fast if you want a taste as only 150 cases of this Rosé were produced.

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Bottom line: A-, Perfect served on the patio.

Township 7 2024 Interlude Rosé

($29.97, available through the winery)

Township 7 took a different path for their Interlude Rosé, heading further south to California’s Russian River Valley to source grapes. This is Pinot Noir territory, and the grapes were harvested at night to preserve freshness before being de-stemmed and then cold-soaked during the 24 hour refrigerated truck journey back to B.C. The result in the glass is a bold pink Rosé featuring notes of lush berry and rhubarb. A juicy and fulsome entry lead to a more tart, dry mid-palate — with great brightness and balance overall. It’s an easy food pairing partner, so bring on the rotisserie chicken, grilled veg platter, or Korean-style short ribs.

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Bottom line: A-, Fun, vivacious Rosé.

The Swirl: Cowichan Valley Wine Festival

Summer is also made for getting out and touring B.C. wine country, and right on cue the Cowichan Valley Wine Festival returns. For the month of August, 13 Cowichan wineries are offering unique wine-tasting experiences. How does it work? Simply purchase a wine festival passport for $50, and bring your proof of purchase to any participating winery to receive a souvenir tasting glass. Then take a day or the entire month to visit all the wineries, collect a stamp, and complete your passport for a chance to win additional prizes. For complete details and to purchase a passport, head to cowichanwineries.com.

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