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Tastings: October 2026
22 October 2026
89PTS
Synchromesh La Petite Rêverie Chardonnay 2025
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe inaugural Chardonnay release from Synchromesh, this fruit comes off La Petite Reverie Vineyard above Skaha Lake, a property owned by founder / winemaker Alan's sister and her family. The hilly site of glacial lake deposits was picked by all 3 generations of the family. The wine rested 10 months in a mix of neutral oak puncheons (80%) and stainless. Stony lemon, ripe green apple, ample downy lees swirls on the medium bodied palate, trailing off with creamy lemon. A welcome introduction to the portfolio.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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21 October 2026
91PTS
Argiolas Costamolino Vermentino di Sardegna 2025
Sardinia, ItalyI have tasted many vintages of Costalamino Vermentino, but this may be the best yet. This respected estate on the island of Sardinia focuses on native varieties grown in cool, hillside vineyards some 190 meters above the Mediterranean. The '25 has wonderful freshness and a mostly floral nose, flecked with lemon and ginger. The palate mixes quince and ripe stone fruit with a sweet tangerine finish. This wine pairs well with a range of West Coast seafood, including squid, crab, clams, and mussels. We enjoyed it with spaghetti carbonara.Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Paternoster Vulcanico Falanghina 2023
Basilicata, ItalyVulcanico grows on sunny slopes over volcanic soil at the base of Mount Vulture, an ancient, dormant volcano in Basilicata, Italy. Expect a straw-yellow colour, white flowers, a strong mineral nose, and quince and yellow fruit. Aromatic and fresh, it finishes dry with a hint of almond. Some say this is where geology meets grape in harmony. Why not try something different?Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.99 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Craven Wines Chenin Blanc Karibib 2025
Polkadraai Hills, Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaFrom 40+ year old, organically farmed radial bush vines on the weathered granite soils of Polkadraai’s Karibib Vineyard, at 300m, this was whole bunch pressed, native fermented, and left on lees 4 months until racking. In all it spent 9 months in concrete, a shift that has focused and textured this already impressive wine. Focused and stony, with wild lemon, fragrant apricot skin and crisp green apple, with a lovely shimmering texture illuminating this from beneath and propelling it long on the saline palate.Prices:| ON | $40.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Sandro de Bruno Soave 2024
Soave, Verona, Veneto, ItalyThis Soave is entirely garganega, from the Suoli Vulcanici, the volcanic hills of Veneto, between Roncà and Montecchia di Crosara. After a cold maceration over 18 hours, pressed cool under nitrogen gas, this went into stainless for fermenation, and a 6 month rest on lees with weekly bâtonnage. Bright and shining, with perfumed green apple, white florals gliding along a gentle lees bed, with a dusting of stony salinity lingering.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Visintini Ribolla Gialla 2025
Colli Orientali del Friuli, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, ItalyThe Visintini estate, once the location for the Castle of Gramogliano, has been in the family since 1884, and has a history dating back to 1290. Located on the hills south of the DOC Friuli Colli Orientali area, this estate rests on the border with DOC Collio, and alongside the provinces of Udine and Gorizia. Today siblings Oliviero, Cinzia, and Palmira farm and produce all the wines organically / biodynamically. This friulano was done entirely in stainless, to preserve freshness. Orange blossom, fragrant white peach, orchard pear is kissed with anise and lightly lined with lees, finishing with a twist of mandarin. A lovely, fresh, bright white well suited to spring / summer fare.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Fento Wines Bico Da Ran Albariño 2025
Val do Salnés, Rías Baixas, Galicia, SpainOne of winemaker and albariño master Eulogio Pomares' many projects (most notably, Zarate), these grapes come from growers in Rias Baixas' sub area of Valle del Salnés, up to 300m, near the sea. The Bico da Ran line is all grower fruit, and more an introduction to the region, which this does smartly. Peach blossom, pear, and crunchy yellow apple flood a juicy, marine kissed palate, with a gentle hum of granite and wash of salinity. A wonderful introduction, and partner to fresh shellfish or simple salads.Prices:| ON | $20.95 | 750ml |
| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Peak Cellars Grüner Veltliner 2022
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is the third year for this grüner veltliner, and it's finding its feet in Lake Country. Warm days and cool nights create the conditions for a refreshing take on grüner. It's grown on granitic soils at elevation and fermented in a mix of old and new oak, and stainless steel. It's not as edgy as the Austrian version, but instead, it's a fun, juicy white with papaya, lime rind, and sagebrush, followed by a light dusting of crushed stone.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Let It Bee Organic Verdejo 2024
Valencia, Valencia and Murcia, SpainThe Let It Bee Verdejo is organically grown, with vines of 30 years, planted in poor sandy soils at approximately 600 metres above sea level. It is a bright, fresh, easy sipping, light white with big floral overtones, lemon, lime, white peach, and a dusting of jasmine. This white has big value and pairs well with shellfish, salads, goat cheese, and lightly spiced dishes. Good value.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
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20 October 2026
89PTS
Peak Cellars Collaboration Red Washington Collaboration Series 2024
Yakima Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesThe Collaboration Series is Peak Cellar’s replacement wine program; in this case, a red blend from the Yakima Valley in Washington State. The blend is a mix of syrah, mourvèdre, and grenache that opens with jammy dark red and black fruit, streaks of tobacco, and light meaty notes. The attack is rich but soft and round, with moderate tannins supporting juicy blackcurrant, brambleberry, and blueberry. You can drink this now or hold it for two to three years. The best match right now is lamb or a gourmet hamburger.Prices:| BC | $37.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Gérard Bertrand An 462 2023
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceGérard Bertrand is a superior marketer, as evidenced by the estimated price and quality of this introductory syrah-grenache. 462 marks the year the Visigoths began their prosperous reign in Languedoc. The palace remnants are honoured by the Bertrand emblem, with the dove cross, a symbol of sharing and brotherhood, on every label. The blend is harvested manually and separately to achieve optimum maturity. After fermentation, a portion of the wine matures in 225 litre Bordeaux barrels for about ten months. The spicy cedar nose and velvety smooth red and black fruit perfectly express the Languedoc, with a dusting of garrigue that adds depth and complexity to the final picture. Hard to ask for more at this price, and even harder to find it in Canada.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Delas Saint Esprit Côtes du Rhône 2023
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceThe vines are grown sustainably, and the blend is mostly grenache, with additions of syrah and mourvèdre, and aged in stainless steel. Like the entry, the colour is light, with aromas of red fruit, pepper, and thyme. On the palate, black plum, raspberries, and boysenberries lead into a long finish with structural tannins that aren’t too sticky. The finish brings a garrigue storm of dried herbs and meaty notes. Drink now or hold for two to three years. I like it with grilled lamb chops.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $21.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
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19 October 2026
93PTS
Tenute Silvio Nardi Vigneto Manachiara Brunello di Montalcino 2018
Tuscany, ItalyAt 15.5% alcohol, the 2018 Manachiara is a powerful, concentrated Brunello. The palate is wide and warm, with plenty of black cherry and blackberry, threaded with balsamic herbs, licorice, and spice. It is still youthful and full of dense, muscular tannins, but underlying acidity and savoury themes bode well for the future. I would cellar this through 2028, but if you decide to open it now, serve it with robust dishes. In 2018, it’s definitely a style that is more New World than Euro. Manachiara is a southeast facing cru on the eastern side of Montalcino at approximately 350 metres. It is known as Nardi's most powerful wine, grown on a mix of quartz-rich sands and Pliocene clay. Fermentation and maceration last a full month, followed by about 8 months in French oak tonneaux, then 16 months in large Slavonian oak, and a further minimum of 18 months in bottle.Prices:| BC | $195.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
Tenute Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino Library Release 2006
Tuscany, ItalyThe '06 is in terrific shape, 20 years in, and speaks to the quality of the two sites where they grow the grapes, Casale del Bosco and Manachiara, as well as the quality winemaking and inherent pedigree of Brunello di Montalcino. The wine is fully mature but still charged with life, demonstrating how fruit and aggressive tannins can age with grace and perfection. The wine leans more toward figs and mushrooms than red fruit and spice. The texture is layered yet extremely silky, with notes of leather, balsamic, and forest floor that add complexity. It's drinking perfectly now. Find a friend and share a bottle with a wild mushroom pasta.Prices:| BC | $195.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Tenute Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino Library Release 2016
Tuscany, ItalyTen years is the ideal time to open the best Brunello vintages, and this 2016 is effortlessly entering its secondary stage, where primary fruit and youthful tannins give way to sour cherry, leather, tobacco, porcini, balsamic, and licorice notes. It remains Brunello thanks to its firm structure and dry finish, yet it retains surprisingly fresh acidity. A decade of bottle ageing helps meld its singular elements into a complete wine, and it's exciting that some Library wines are available to restaurants and collectors. The winery says it will be ideal to drink through 2035 with robust fare. The estate Brunello draws on multiple parcels at Casale del Bosco and Manachiara, blending the more elegant northwest-facing estate with the warmer, more powerful southeast-facing property.Prices:| BC | $173.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Tenute Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino 2020
Tuscany, Italy2020 is a wonderful vintage in Brunello, and the Nardi is a good example of what Brunello is all about. The aromas are inviting yet restrained, with ripe red cherry and plum balanced by leather, earth, and savoury underbrush. The palate has a rich texture and delicious, warm, intense red fruit with a savoury undertone. Structurally, the acidity and dense, fine-grained tannins provide a foundation for aging over the next five years. The very best fruit is selected from several blocks across both main sites to make the Nardi label. Interestingly, Eric Boissonot, one of Bordeaux's most influential consulting oenologists and arguably the leading specialist in Médoc wines, works with Nardi during the crucial blending moments before the final blend is put together. Boissonot consults with at least 19 classified growths, including several 1st Growths: Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Mouton Rothschild, and Château Margaux. Boissonot excels at blending.Prices:| BC | $115.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $59.99 | 375ml |
| AB | $113.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $53.75 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Tenute Silvio Nardi Casale del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino 2019
Tuscany, ItalyThe Casale del Bosco Brunello comes from the estate's northwestern, sunset-facing side of Montalcino. The soils and cooler exposure give this Brunello a more elegant jacket that feeds on complexity rather than power. The nose is highly expressive and inviting, with that Tuscan countryside character. On the palate, black cherry, red currant, and dried roses give way to cedar, leather, and a mineral finish. Long and polished, it delivers a satisfying, persistent aftertaste. The excellent 2019 vintage delivers now and will remain a factor through 2029 and beyond. Classic pairings include grilled lamb, aged pecorino, or a favourite bistecca cut.Prices:| BC | $85.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $53.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Tenute Silvio Nardi Rosso di Montalcino 2023
Tuscany, ItalyThe Nardi Rosso comes from several cooler, northwest-facing estate vineyards in Montalcino, where the vines sit over marl and sandy soils. The winery completes fermentation, maceration, and ageing in stainless steel. It was a challenging year for growers, and only the most diligent made anything near high quality Rosso. The Nardi is riper in style than the Casale del Bosco, with smooth, warm red fruit. The palate is dry, with some sticky tannins, but otherwise pleasant and perfect for drinking now with a rich mushroom pasta dish. It is also available in half bottles.Prices:| BC | $53.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $29.99 | 375ml |
| ON | $49.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Tenute Silvio Nardi Casale del Bosco Rosso di Montalcino 2023
Tuscany, ItalyThis Sangiovese is fresh and savoury, with bright red cherry and raspberry, plus hints of licorice and earthy Tuscan character. Light, lively, and ready to drink, it is made for early enjoyment with grilled sausages or roast chicken. The fruit comes from Nardi's Casale del Bosco vineyard on the cooler northwestern side of Montalcino, where the vines grow on marl and sandy soils. After at least 18 days of fermentation and maceration, the wine spends about six months in stainless steel, then ages in the bottle. Silvio Nardi purchased the Casale del Bosco estate in western Montalcino in 1950 and released his first Brunello in 1954, long before the Tuscan red was known outside Italy. Fast forward to 2026, and the family works with two contrasting Montalcino properties: Casale del Bosco, on Montalcino's cooler northwest side, which typically brings elegance, freshness, and aromatic complexity to the game; while the warmer, sunrise-facing Manachiara estate brings power, depth, and structure.Prices:| BC | $46.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $49.95 | 750ml |
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16 October 2026
87PTS
Escorihuela 1884 Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon 2024
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThis 50/50 blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Mendoza's Agrelo District. Fermentation and ageing are straightforward, with 60 percent of the wine aged for eight months in French and American oak. The palate is savoury and spicy, with blueberries and sour cherries leading. Think of this as a mid-week red for beef tacos or a beef stir-fry.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
La Celia Reserva Malbec Cabernet Franc 2023
Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaExpect perfectly ripe Malbec with some Cabernet Franc freshness and pleasant streaks of minerality after spending 8-9 months in 80 percent and 20 percent second- and third-use French oak. Ripe black cherry leads, with blackberry and black pepper, sprinkled with paprika and a hint of toasted oak. Dry and juicy, this wine is great solo or with pepperoni pizza. Good value.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Hillside Mosaic 2019
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHillside's flagship red comes entirely from Naramata Bench fruit and is crafted through careful barrel selection. It has been on the upswing for nearly a decade now and makes the case for Naramata red blends with elegance and power. The '19 blend comprises 51% merlot, 18% cabernet sauvignon, 14% malbec, 10% cabernet franc, and 7% petit verdot. It was aged for 16 months in 55% new French oak, then for another full year in neutral oak after the final blend. The nose and palate reveal dark cherry, blackberry, and dark plum, alongside cedar, graphite, dried herbs, and pepper. Concentrated yet fresh, the palate offers polished tannins, savoury complexity, and a persistent mineral finish. Decant for one to two hours before serving, or cellar through the early 2030s.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
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15 October 2026
91PTS
Kallerei Kaltern Alto Adige Pinot Grigio 2025
Trentino- Alto-Adige, ItalyFrom a mix of south- and east-facing vineyards at 300–450 metres, the Kaltern Classic is grown over clay mixed with limestone gravel, giving it richness on a bony infrastructure. It is fermented and aged on fine lees in stainless steel, yielding a bright yellow colour with tropical, juicy pineapple and banana flavours and a silky, creamy texture that runs through its stony finish. Love the quality here. A warm afternoon patio with appetizers is a good match, but it also has the stamina to work at the dinner table.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tommasi Pinot Grigio Le Rosse 2025
Verona, Veneto, ItalyThe Tommasi estate grown gris comes from the Le Rosse vineyard in Valpolicella Classico. It undergoes a short fermentation, then four months in stainless steel before bottling. Expect a clean, ready to drink style with ripe pear, Golden Delicious apple, and a finish that offers grass and almond. Dry, balanced, and light, this makes for a solid mid-week wine.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $24.99 | 750ml |
| NB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Craven Wines Pinot Gris 2024
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaFrom Stellenbosch's Newlands Vineyard and its heavy iron-rich koffeklip soils, these pinot gris vines are 20 years old, facing east. It's rare enough to find PG in ZA, and unheard of to find one as memorable as this. The 2024 was picked over two tries, and after destemming, had 6 days skin contact (until it goes dry) in concrete before being pressed and racked back into concrete for 5 months. Pouring a pretty cherry / salmon hue, this textural wine is woven with wild orange, pink grapefruit, bergamot, and flake salts along a long, saline palate, finishing with a kiss of fresh tobacco. Not crazy acidity, but it's not missed with everything else going on. A lovely food wine, especially for umami-rich dishes. 13000 bottles produced.Prices:| ON | $37.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Blue Grouse Pinot Gris 2025
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaRooted in Vancouver Island's Cowichan Valley, Blue Grouse has embraced the landscape's ancient seabeds, volcanic, and seismic activity, glaciers, and Mediterranean-like climate, where slow, even ripening preserves acidity. The '25 Gris blends estate grapes with fruit from nearby Enrico, Saison, and Deol vineyards, each vinified separately to explore site character. Fermented and aged in concrete (67%), French oak (20%), and stainless steel (13%), the result is a fresh white and green fruit wine with bright precision and subtle richness. Seriously, pinot gris and very food friendly.Prices:| BC | $30.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Peak Cellars Skin Kissed Pinot Gris 2025
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWinemaker Stephanie Stanley has a magical touch with aromatic whites, as this skin kissed gris shows. It looks like the province's best rosé, even if it isn't. Its pale salmon colour and light structure come from leaving the juice and skins together in the same tank overnight. On the palate, juicy apple, strawberry, and sweet lime burst forth, balanced by the light phenolics from the extended skin contact. That balance is key, and the long, juicy, dry finish holds your interest. This is a delicious wine. As I've noted before, Pinot Gris is finally finding its footing in BC, and this is one of the most exciting new models. Stock up.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Peak Cellars Pinot Gris 2023
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaI swear Peak Cellars has a juice machine hidden somewhere in the winery. The 2023 Pinot Gris bursts with apple orchard aromas, layered with exotic florals, orange blossom, and citrus. The palate is fresh and lively, with bright, juicy citrus riding a silky texture through the finish. A well made, dry Gris that pairs easily with everything from fish tacos to Asian inspired noodle slaws.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Solvero Pinot Gris 2025
Garnet Valley, Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis slick '25 pinot gris blends fruit harvested from Kozuki Family Vineyards and Happy Valley Vineyard at the end of September. It has a highly polished feel, with plenty of ripe pear up front and a touch of honey and beeswax that really smooths out the back end. A light dusting of bitterness in the finish adds a touch of complexity to the mix. Balanced and crisp, it offers fine concentration that helps it take a gold medal at the 2026 National Wine Awards. Ready to drink. The grapes were hand harvested across five separate picks to seek optimal ripeness. Each pick was fermented separately, and whole cluster pressed to release a smaller volume of juice with greater clarity and concentration. The fermentations used a mix of spontaneous and cultured yeast, and were kept relatively cool (12-16°C), extending over 2-3 weeks until dryness. The wine was aged in a 50/50 mix of stainless steel and neutral French oak barrels for 3 months before bottling.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Tenuta Corte Giacobbe Pinot Grigio Ramato 2025
Veneto, ItalyThis eastern Soave white is anything but typical pinot grigio. It is grown organically over limestone and volcanic-laced soils, and the final mix gets some skin contact before a stainless steel fermentation. It is a crisp, vibrant, downright crunchy white with mineral and nectarine, followed by a lean, tart, linear palate of lemon, green melon, and a touch of orange. It is a food slayer that overdelivers for the price.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Franz Haas Pinot Grigio 2025
Sudtirol - Alto-Adige, Trentino- Alto-Adige, ItalyFranz Haas is a journey into the Dolomites foothills, where altitude and limestone meet. The colour is a light yellow. It offers a rich collection of cool aromatics, including pear and white flowers. The entry is a mix of sweet pear with fresh, crisp lemon and apple, all washed in a saline mineral bath. A perfect sweet and sour balance ends juicy and calls for food. Impressive wine, but pricey.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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14 October 2026
91PTS
Terravista Vineyards Mencía 2025
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA first for Canada, Terravista's plantings of the Spanish grape Mencía, planted in Naramata's Outlook Vineyard in 2021, are now online, yielding both a red and rosé version from 2025, in very limited release. This tinto was destemmed and fermented equally between oat vat and stainless tank, before aging in neutral French oak for 9 months. Herbal blackberry, cassis, crushed purple florals, peppercorns, and thorns course through the surprisingly meaty, yet juicy palate, with appropriately grippy tannins housing this youthful red through the peppery, lingering finish. More impactful than its young vine, 13.5% would be expected, in a wonderful way. A first for Canada, Terravista's plantings of the Spanish grape Mencía, planted in Naramata's Outlook Vineyard in 2021, are now online, yielding both a red and rosé version from 2025, in very limited release. This tinto was destemmed and fermented equally between oat vat and stainless tank, before aging in neutral French oak for 9 months. Herbal blackberry, cassis, crushed purple florals, peppercorns, and thorns course through the surprisingly meaty, yet juicy palate, with appropriately grippy tannins housing this youthful red through the peppery, lingering finish. More impactful than its young vine, 13.5% would be expected, in a wonderful way. Bienvenido a BC, Mencía. 433 cases produced.Prices:| BC | $37.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Craven Wines Cinsaut 2025
Bottelary, Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaFrom older (1975 / 1989) dry farmed bush vines on decomposed granites and silica sands of Stellies' Rustenhof vineyard, this is one of the Bredall family farms that the Cravens started using in 2017. They share the site with with Bernard Bredall and his striking Scions of Sinai label, as well as with Lukas van Loggerenberg's Geronimo Cinsaut. Rustenhof is one of the region's most coastal vineyards, and you feel it in the freshness of this lifted cinsault. Destemmed and whole berry, with 6 days on skins, this was native fermented and rested in concrete, where it remained until bottling. Wild plum, cherry, boysenberry is scented with scrubby resinous herbs and mustard seed on the lifted palate, its svelte body framed with long, fine tannins that finish with pink peppercorn and crushed stones. A charmer.Prices:| ON | $40.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Nicosia Vulkà Etna Rosso 2024
Etna, Sicily, ItalyThe '24 blend is 80% Nerello Mascalese and 20% Nerello Cappuccio, with a pleasant 13% alcohol. The grapes grow organically at an impressive 650–750 metres in volcanic soil, which shows in its dried red berries and mineral, stony texture. Soft and round, it's an easy sipping youthful Etna Rosso. I like this with a tomato-based pasta with sausage or meatballsPrices:| BC | $31.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Moon Curser Tannat 2022
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAs you might expect, the tannat has a deep, opaque black-purple hue. The vines are now 21 years old. The nose blends earth with dried blackberries. The wine is firm and dry, with youthful, sticky tannins, yet it has surprising acidity for such a warm South Okanagan setting. Youthful and disjointed, this will need time to pull it all together.Prices:| BC | $46.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Diego Conterno Baluma Langhe Nebbiolo 2024
Langhe, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyThere are a myriad Conternos in the world of Barolo, each caring their own path into the future. Diego Conterno was once part of the famed Conterno Fantino, making modern wines in Monforte d'Alba. After years as a partner in the winery, Diego decided that he wanted to take a more traditional approach, so in 2000 he sold his share in the company, took his vines, and began anew, working organically alongside his son Stefano with their 7.5 hecatres of vines. This comes off clay, tuff, and calcareous marls at 500m, facing west. After a native ferment and 10 days on skins, this rests 6 months in 500L oak. Black cherry, dark raspberry is scented with crushed florals and subtle wood, with a juicy palate framed with long, lightly gritty tannins, and finishing with lingering florals. Most Langhe Nebbiolo is pretty, easy, smashable stuff, but this captures nebbiolo's pretty / ugly juxtoposition, giving a wine hitting way above its weight. Drinking super smart now, and with time in cellar under its Diam5 cork.Prices:| BC | $49.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Falernia Gran Reserva Carmenere 2022
Valle del Elqui, ChileExpect a unique style of carmenere, shaped by the super-cooled Pacific winds that fill the Elqui Valley, and the drying of 60% of the fruit using the appassimento method to intensify its aromas and flavours. It has a floral, spicy, smoky, black fruit, and tar nose. It follows onto the palate with herbaceous black fruit, dusted with pepper, and oaky vanilla notes. It's unsettled for now but shows promise, especially for the price. For now, it is a wait-and-see proposition.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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13 October 2026
92PTS
Storm Haven Riesling Block 3 2025
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe '25 Storm Haven Blue Label Block 3 Riesling blends select fermentations from Block 3, a site covered primarily with decomposed granite and sandy clay loam. It is a lively, juicy, very drinkable medium sweet Riesling in the rich Kabinett or lighter Spätlese tradition. With 46.2 g/L residual sugar, balanced by 9.1 g/L total acidity and a strikingly low pH of 2.65, the wine delivers intense sweet lime, green apple, and stone fruit, balanced by taut acidity that runs through the palate and finish. Vibrant and remarkably fresh, this is another Synchromesh winner that, while appearing sweet on entry, remains light on its feet. A fun wine to serve with spicy foods, you can cellar it for decades.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Peak Cellars Block 11 Riesling 2022
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOff-dry rieslings are perhaps the most misunderstood wine in the business. As a friend of mine used to say, "too bad for them because it means more for us." Block 11 is a picture perfect off dry white with elevated aromatics that hint at floral jasmine and spicy pineapple. On the palate, the sugar disappears into a tropical citrus, guava affair that slides down easily, ending in a clean, fresh finish that's ready for the next sip. The sweet and sour profile makes it the perfect foil to sweet and sour dishes. Winery pairings suggest serving it with anything from spicy fare to light desserts. It is another feather in the cap of diversity of BC wine, and the price is right.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Peak Cellars Terraces Dry Riesling 2022
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe third edition of the Dry Riesling is made from estate grapes grown on low lying, heavier clay soils known as Block 20. Two superstar clones, 21 and 49, suggest a German/Alsace armistice, although the bright acidity reminds us we are in the Okanagan. A lengthy, cool fermentation yields a tart, juicy, bone dry palate with a touch of citrus, green apple, and a hint of petrol. On the palate, honeysuckle and lime zest mix with fresh cut herbs and a salty, dry finish. This one is definitely made for food. Fried chicken or calamari work here. Drink it or hold it, as it is going nowhere.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Peak Cellars Riesling 2023
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMuch like last year's effort, which won a gold medal and Best in Class at the LA International Wine Competition, the 2023 Lake Country selection from individual blocks is another winner. The winemaking includes an early picked block to bring acidity, while the rest is fermented in neutral oak barrels and concrete tanks for texture and mouthfeel. The nose offers an attractive mix of aromatic green apple, papaya, and honey. Lively and acid-led on the finish, this crisp white, full of orchard fruit, is an Okanagan charmer. Delicious and gulpable, you can pair this with baked salmon, slow roasted pork, or your favourite spicy dumplings.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Moraine Riesling 2025
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaI love dry white wines, but there is something about a vibrant, juicy off dry riesling that draws me back to the glass time and time again. The Moriane estate grown label is just that, grown across two Naramata Bench vineyards. Bright and juicy with natural sweetness, it offers peach, golden pineapple, and lemon meringue, and it's a delicious drop of wine. Anything with a touch or more of spice will work here.Prices:| BC | $23.49 | 750ml |
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90PTS
CedarCreek Aspect Collection Riesling 2023
East Kelowna Slopes, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe '23 Aspect is a selection of Block 1 and Block 3 from the CedarCreek Home Block Vineyard on the South Kelowna Slopes. Block 1 brings floral freshness, while Block 3 is more citrus driven. It is wild fermented, yielding an intense, concentrated nose of white flowers, citrus, and honey, with a long, linear orange peel finish. The fruit is handpicked days apart, the grapes are whole bunch pressed and naturally fermented in neutral oak and concrete, then aged six months on lees to build texture, mouthfeel, and generosity. The wine is certified Ecocert.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Fort Berens Late Harvest Riesling 2025
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaThis is a well balanced late harvest riesling that makes excellent use of the freshness of Lillooet to tame the sweetness in this wine. The nose is a mix of apricot jam, honey, baked apples and sweet lime juice that comes together to present the taster with a wine you can sip or pair with a favourite fruit dessert that should always be a touch less sweet than the wine. The fruit is sourced from Fort Berens' sustainably farmed Dry Creek Vineyard in Lillooet, planted in 2009.Prices:| BC | $20.99 | 375ml |
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12 October 2026
88PTS
Escorihuela 1884 Malbec 2024
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThe 1884 varietal series is usually good value, but the malbec seems to have really stepped up. This generous Mendoza malbec is rich in blackberry, dark plums, and florals, with a spicy finish. Juicy and supple, it is ready to drink and pairs well with beef tacos, burgers, or classic empanadas.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Giramundo Malbec 2021
Mendoza, ArgentinaGiramundo is winemaker Felipe Stahlschmidt's personal project. He works extensively in Paraje Altamira, though his malbec comes from Vista Flores. The '21 is dense and dark, with refined, savoury black and red fruit, chalky tannins, and ten months of oak aging in used oak that builds texture and adds smoky vanilla notes. Modern, rich, and ready to drink, but there is no rush. Pair now with burgers or grilled steak, or a rich fall vegetable pan roasted in the oven. Good value.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Painted Rock Malbec 2023
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe PR malbec begins with an opaque dark purple colour. The palate is deeply intense, with black fruit and plenty of baking spices that persist throughout the wine. The attack is warm and long, with dense but sweet, soft tannins, while the textures are layered and sophisticated. It is a giant of a wine, balanced enough for the brave to drink now, but it would benefit from 7-10 years in the bottle. It wasn't a great year, and while the fruit component here is medium, the overall wine has excelled despite the weather. Normally, most of this malbec goes to the PR icon, but in 2023 there was enough high quality juice to bottle some solo. I agree, and it is certainly a star in the making. The wine was aged in 30% new oak for 18 months. Buy it while you can and see why malbec is making a home in BC.Prices:| BC | $59.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
La Celia Elite Paraje Altimira Malbec 2024
Paraje Altamira, Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThis is a delicious malbec. The Altamira style tends to emphasize intense red fruit and florals, with surprising richness on the palate layered with these sweet, chalky tannins. Acidity keeps it fresh throughout, and it finishes with spice and toasted vanilla from French oak aging. It was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels with minimal new oak, then for a further two months in concrete before bottling, and aged at least four months at the winery. An impressive wine, but it hasn't been sold in Canada yet.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Moraine Malbec Anastatia Estate Vineyard 2023
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Anastasia Vineyard Malbec is a solid effort grown on the Naramata Bench. It's richer and more substantial than the previous '22 edition, mixing fresh dark plums and candied blackberries dusted in desert sagebrush and pepper. Juicy, bright, and smooth, you can drink this now or over the next two years. BC malbec is gaining attention among wine aficionados, and this is a good example of where we are headed. We enjoyed it with a classic dish of pasta Bolognese.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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08 October 2026
93PTS
Le Cinciole Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Aluigi 2019
Tuscany, ItalyLe Cinciole's single vineyard Gran Selezione Aluigi consistently ranks among the top Chianti Classicos. The all-sangiovese 2019 Aluigi has received rave reviews, and on tasting, I can see why. It meets the Gran Selezione promise of being the best wine of the year, with a magical mixture of floral, earthy, meaty notes that preview ripe dark fruit, dried wild herbs, and a balanced structure of tannin and acidity. It is a joy to sip, and it has many years ahead of it in the bottle. The grapes, harvested by hand, are destemmed and gently crushed in cement vats for long, slow maceration. Fermentation is wild, while the ageing is in traditional French Oak barriques for 24 months, plus another year in cement tanks, plus another year in the bottle at the winery.Prices:| BC | $82.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Falernia Amicizia Sangiovese Gran Reserva Titon Vineyard 2025
Valle del Elqui, ChileThis rare sangiovese is grown in Chile's Elqui Valley, 530 km north of Santiago and just 18 km east of the Pacific Ocean. The region is known for its cool maritime influence and stony soils. It offers a surprisingly fresh, if light, expression of sangiovese, perhaps reflecting the climate of Chile's furthest-north vineyards. It has a refined, youthful red-cherry nose with notes of wild raspberry, dried herbs, and rose petal. The palate is similar, with more sour cherry flavour, dried herbs, and subtle spice, with a medium-length finish. Serve with grilled meats, tomato-based pasta dishes, or aged pecorino to smooth out its youthful edges.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Antinori Pèppoli Chianti Classico 2024
Tuscany, ItalyThe 2024 Pèppoli steps back to a more classic Tuscan style, with finesse more dominant than power in a vintage focused on freshness, fragrance, and drinkability. The single estate in Chianti Classico, owned and farmed by Marchesi Antinori, is primarily sangiovese with a touch of syrah and merlot. Each is fermented and aged separately in stainless steel, then aged for nine months in large, older Slavonian oak barrels. Look for spicy red cherries and wild red berries with earthy forest floor notes. The textures are luxurious, and the palate opens with rich, fleshy black cherry and dense, chalky, sweet tannins. Polished in a way most Classicos are not. Elegant, stylish, and frankly Antinori.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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07 October 2026
88PTS
Terravista Mencía Rosé 2025
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA first for Canada, Terravista's plantings of the Spanish grape Mencía, pioneered in Naramata's Outlook Vineyard in 2021, are now online, yielding both a red and rosé version, in very limited release. Pouring a shining deep salmon hue, this fruit forward, juicy pink floods the palate with strawberry jam, orange blossom, ripe honey crisp apple, and a dusting of peppery spice along a glycerol-lined palate, ending dry on the snappy, bitter citrus, brief finish. A promising beginning.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Peak Cellars Rosé Washington Collaboration Series 2024
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis '24 replacement rosé from the Collaboration Series is pink and comes from Washington's Yakima Valley. The team at Peak Cellars has maintained their style, starting with pure drinkability. Fresh strawberry and raspberry dominate the nose and palate, with hints of red candy. The texture is soft, while bright acidity keeps the wine lively and fun to drink. Fruity and uncomplicated, you can drink this one the same day you buy it. Winery pairings they work hard at include roasted rhubarb salad with goat cheese, chicken souvlaki or bocconcini-stuffed meatballs in tomato sauce. We are in.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Space Dog Grace Undone Merlot Rosé 2025
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGrace Undone is a soft, cushy rosé with a setting sun hue. At Spacedog, they describe it as "Provence restraint, with merlot muscle underneath." It is made from South Okanagan merlot, blended from three fermentation lots: a saignée method, a natural yeast fermentation, and a press method, all fermented in stainless steel, with occasional bâtonnage. Expect a dry, medium to full bodied rosé with excellent aromatics, a juicy grapefruit profile, a savoury Okanagan desert scrub touch, and a bright, mineral finish. It has the weight and structure to stand up to fall and winter dishes.Prices:| BC | $36.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Gérard Bertrand Gris Blanc Rosé 2025
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceOne of the palest rosés in the south of France, Gris Blanc literally translates as "grey-white," referring to the wine's appearance and the grenache gris grape's pinkish-grey mutation. The '25 is made with mostly grenache grown around Tautavel between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean. The nose is a subtle mix of strawberry, raspberry, citrus, and white flowers. The palate is feather-light and refreshing, pitching red berry, melon, and pink grapefruit with a touch of spritz to highlight its clean mineral finish. One of the best versions we have tasted.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Let it Bee Organic Rosé 2024
Valencia, Valencia and Murcia, SpainLet it Bee is part of the Citizen Wine portfolio, which offers accessible, organically sourced wines aligned with an environmental cause. The collection funds bee conservation and biodiversity, with a portion of sales donated to organizations that support bumblebees and their habitats. This juicy all-Tempranillo rosé opens with an attractive pale pink hue and a fresh nose of red berries, candied fruit, and citrus notes that carry through the palate with bright acidity. The fruit is perfectly ripe without any hint of sweetness. Fun, fresh, and affordable, you will find it in private wine shops for a bargain $21–$22. It was the perfect foil to a mushroom pizza.Prices:| BC | $18.50 | 750ml |
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93PTS
1 Mill Road Pinot Noir Rosé 2025
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaI'm late to the party on this wine, and I regret not getting there sooner. This pinot noir is as delicious as any Provençal rosé I have had, often better. But to be fair, Provence is not pinot noir country. 1 Mill farms two pinot sites on the Naramata Bench: Black Pine Vineyard, and Cronie Family Vineyard. The colour is pink perfection, and the nose evokes a Provençal garden party. The palate is elegant, the fruit is pure, with only a touch of used oak for texture. It is still available on the website for $228 for a six pack. I highly recommend it.Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
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06 October 2026
92PTS
Craven Wines Syrah Firs Vineyard 2024
Devon Valley, Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaFrom Stellenbosch's Devon Valley, and its iron rich clay soils at 300m, this clone S22 syrah was planted in 2002. Unlike Jeanine and Mick's other reds, syrah is always entirely whole bunch. This rested with skins for 9 days, before moving into open top stainless bins for foot trodding and native ferment. It then spends 10ish months in concrete. Perfumed blackberry, boysenberry, dark violets course through this darker shaded, though medium bodied syrah, with firm tannins pinning in the sides, and the clay soils and 2024 vintage adding a shade more heft to the core. Cracked peppercorn linger on the stony finish, welcoming partnering with herb-decked lamb.Prices:| ON | $42.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Township 7 Interlude Syrah 2024
United StatesInterlude is a different kind of blend, combining earthy aromatics and juicy red fruit from Sonoma with concentrated, ripe dark fruit and structured tannins from Washington. The mix yields a blueberry and blackberry profile with a peppercorn driven earthy undertone and a smooth texture. Try with five spice baby back ribs, or a mushroom farrotto. The fruit came from two distinct sites equally: Four Palms Vineyard in the Russian River Valley, Sonoma, grown in sandy loam with shale and volcanic ash; and 50% from Double D Vineyard in the Rocky Reach AVA in Oroville, WA, where it grew in wind deposited sand and silt over cobblestone gravel. The wine was aged 18 months in 77% French and 23% American oak (none new).Prices:| BC | $44.97 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Escorihuela 1884 Syrah Finca E.G. 2023
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThis wine has been a consistent entry level syrah bargain for years. The fruit comes from Agrelo, a quality Argentine region, and the style is fresh and juicy. Look for a dry, slightly floral nose with black fruit. The palate is simple and direct, with dark cherry, anise, and a dusting of spice. It's fresh, approachable, and perfect with midweek grilled meat or vegetables.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $19.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Falernia Gran Reserva Syrah 2021
Valle del Elqui, ChileThis wine has overdelivered for years, and the 2021 vintage may be the best I've tasted yet. There's still the lush, ripe fruit, clocking in at 14.5 abv, but it feels like there's more savoury depth now, with bacon marmalade, black olive, and white pepper. There's something decidedly Rhône-ish to this wine, while showing why Elqui continues to be so exciting for syrah. Highly recommended.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Mayu Syrah Gran Reserva Don Mauro Vineyard 2021
Valle del Elqui, ChileTasting this again over two years later, it feels like it's just starting to exit its drinking window, at least based on this bottle. The fruit has matured into a stewed direction, overshadowing some of the varietal perfume and spice. It's a big, monolithic wine that's certainly more shiraz than syrah, with notable heat now from the 14.5% abv.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Falernia Syrah Reserva Titon Vineyard 2023
Valle del Elqui, ChileThe Titon Vineyard Syrah is a fascinating contrast to the Gran Reserva. More restrained and polished, it leads with ripe brambles, crushed rock, and floral perfume, over the savoury, meaty intensity of the latter. And it has the structure and fruit concentration to easily improve over the next 5-7 years. It feels like this could truly only come from Elqui. Highly recommended.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Painted Rock Syrah 2023
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is a rich, full throttle syrah that exudes the ripeness of the vintage, with opulent brambly fruit and dried lavender that's generously framed with toasted oak spice and vanillin. Full bodied and mouth- oating, there's impressive concentration here, with the extraction to match. But the tannins are well managed, plush and suave, leading to a peppery finish. It's easy to see why this is one of the Okanagan's benchmark syrahs.Prices:| BC | $51.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Moraine Syrah Anastatia Estate Vineyard 2022
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is a juicy, medium bodied syrah that shows a combination of dark plum and raspberry alongside a dusting of spices and lavender. Correct and true to the Naramata Bench, coming from Anasasia Estate Vineyard. This was aged 18 months in French oak, but to this palate lacks the fruit density to fully support it.Prices:| BC | $32.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Thorn-Clarke Shotfire Shiraz 2020
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaThe Shotfire could be a poster child for the Barossa showy style. The nose is bright and forthright, with ripe, smoky blueberries kissed with pepper and cedar. The entry is lush, smooth, mouthfilling, and warm, with a whack of black fruits, dried herbs, and sweet vanilla. A warm, spicy, attractive style of shiraz that slides down easily, especially when served with grilled lamb chops.Prices:| AB | $27.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Phantom Creek Estates Kobau Vineyard Syrah 2022
Golden Mile Bench, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaKobau Syrah comes from a 4.5 acre block on the west side of the Okanagan Valley's Golden Mile Bench. Morning sun and cooler late afternoons and evenings protect the fruit from intense late day heat, preserving balance and freshness. The '22 is pure and poised, combining concentrated blackberry and blueberry with spiced plum, florals, and white pepper. The palate delivers a rush of savoury notes, mixed with meaty, black olive and glossy blue fruit brushed with 19 months of French oak ageing and a warm finish. It will age effortlessly through 2032.Prices:| BC | $72.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
1 Mill Road Syrah 2024
Horse Heaven Hills, Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesThe 2024 Syrah continues 1 Mill Road's cross border program, sourcing fruit from Coyote Canyon Vineyard in Washington State's Horse Heaven Hills AVA. The colour is dense, and the nose is packed with savoury, aromatic, meaty black fruit and refined, powdery tannins. The palate is rich and layered, mixing red cherry, raspberry, violet, wild herbs, pepper, and savoury spice. The finish brings in the chalk and minerality that keep it fresh and balanced. Definitely Rhône-esque with a refreshing Washington / BC twist.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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05 October 2026
87PTS
Maan Farms Mad Pumpkin NV
Fraser Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Mad Pumpkin opens with a rich aroma of baking spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and brown sugar. The palate is lush and sweet, with warming fruit, hints of caramel, sweet pumpkin, and the same baking spices. Serve it well chilled with your favourite holiday pies or pumpkin desserts. You could also treat it like a tawny port and serve it as a seasonal fireside drink.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Mad Apple NV
Fraser Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLike the Mad Pumpkin, the Apple edition is defined by its intense spice. Look for autumnal apple pie that blends sweet and tart apple with classic baked apple spicing. Apple fans will love the fresh apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg that runs through the wine, along with its long, sweet, smooth finish. It really is homemade apple pie in a glass. Cue a piece of warm apple pie.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Maan Farms Strawberry Rhubarb 2025
Fraser Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOne of Maan Farm's better labels is the Strawberry Rhubarb. It opens with fresh orange and strawberry, then moves to a rich palate of candied strawberry compote, with a touch of herbaceousness and acidity to keep the finish from getting cloying. Ready to drink, and grilled salmon is a recommended pairing. Serve well chilled.Prices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Maan Farms Blackberry 2025
Fraser Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Blackberry label is fairly consistent. The intensity opens with ripe, smooth textures, but a herby undertow pulls it back from the edge. Blackberries have a natural tartness, and adding that to the finish makes for a much better wine in the mouth. Balancing the sugar can make all the difference in fruit wines, and this one does it with a black pepper note. A flourless chocolate cake would be a fine match here.Prices:| BC | $26.45 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Maan Farms Blueberry 2025
Fraser Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBlueberries seem like a natural ingredient for a fruit wine. BC is the unofficial capital of blueberries, so supply is plentiful. The nose smells surprisingly like blueberries, with just a dusting of herbal, leafy notes. The palate is soft, sweet, tangy, and spicy, with more intense blueberry and a fresh, cleansing finish. This is fun to sip, but it also works in marinades, salad dressings, and sauces. Spicy dishes like chilli chicken wings are also a fine match. This one is a winner.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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02 October 2026
95PTS
Martin's Lane The Oregon Project Zena Crown Vineyard Pinot Noir 2024
Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesThe Oregon Project began with the 2024 winter deep freeze in the Okanagan Valley, which left many BC wineries without any fruit at harvest. Winemaker Shane Munn and viticulturist Kurt Simcic looked south to Oregon for replacement grapes that would adapt as closely as possible to the demanding Martin's Lane style. The Zena Crown Vineyard has a reputation for producing fresh, structured, small, intense berries and savoury dark fruit. In fact, I found the Zena Crown riper and more savoury, with some reduction throughout its flinty, mineral, stemmy, spicy palate streaked with black cherry, black raspberry, and rhubarb. It is a big, rich, round pinot with fine grained tannins that let this Gevery Chambertin-like red slip down easy. The fruit was picked and trucked across the border overnight. Fermentation in concrete with 40% whole clusters was spontaneous, maceration lasted 18 days, and the wine aged 10 months in tight grained French and Austrian oak. The alcohol is a modest 13%.Prices:| BC | $115.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Martin's Lane Tombolo Vineyard Riesling 2025
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe newest vineyard designated riesling in the Martin's Lane portfolio comes from Tombolo, a steep, amphitheatre shaped site in Lake Country, planted at more than 10,000 vines per hectare. The high density vineyard yields small bunches, tiny yields, and elevated, concentrated fruit without sacrificing natural acidity. Aromas of lime zest, green apple, delicate white blossoms and wet stone leap from the glass. Despite 35 g/L of residual sugar, the palate remains vibrant and focused, driven by piercing acidity and a mineral spine that keeps every flavour in balance. Citrus, tropical fruit, orchard fruit, and lime persist through a long, energetic finish marked by precision and freshness. A compelling example of how site, acidity, and restraint can transform sweetness into texture and complexity rather than weight. Another Mosel-like offering to add to the repertoire of fine BC riesling.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Martin's Lane Sperling Vineyard Riesling 2025
East Kelowna Slopes, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDrawn from one of British Columbia's oldest riesling vineyards, planted in 1948, the '25 Sperling Vineyard Riesling showcases the depth and complexity that only mature vines can deliver. Aromas of white flowers, lime blossom, flint, peach, and wet stone emerge from the glass with impressive intensity. The palate is succulent and layered, combining ripe citrus, orchard fruit, melon, and subtle tropical tones with a silky texture. Despite 25 grams of residual sugar, the wine remains remarkably poised, thanks to vibrant acidity that energizes every sip. A lingering mineral note and faint phenolic grip frame a long, complex finish. Rich yet precise, this is a compelling expression of old vine Okanagan riesling with excellent aging potential, all at 8.5% alcohol.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Martin's Lane Simes Vineyard Riesling 2025
South Kelowna Slopes, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSimes Vineyard is a cool, sheltered lakeside vineyard, yielding a delicate, restrained, elegant nose and a wine that leaks minerality from front to back. Look for a bright citrus demeanour with crystalline lime, lime blossom, orange, tangerine, white blossoms, and chalk. Simes Vineyard is a steep, north facing vineyard whose granite soils lie just a few kilometres south of the 50°N mark, and traditionally is the last picked at Martin's Lane. The Alsace clone 49 vineyard is certified Ecocer. Terrific riesling for riesling lovers.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Martin's Lane The Oregon Project Open Claim Pinot Noir 2024
Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesOpen Claim opens with spectacular aromas that speak to its lavish style, featuring roses and violets mingled with candied cherry and refined toasty notes. The palate is equally compelling, medium to full bodied, with spicy, earthy dried fruit. The tannins are supportive but not overpowering and well polished. At this youthful stage, duck would be a solid pairing. The fruit comes from Mt. Pisgah in Polk County in the Willamette Valley. Geoff ponders: Morey-Saint-Denis in style? The vineyard sits on marine sedimentary soil, is dry farmed and certified organic.Prices:| BC | $115.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Martin's Lane Naramata Ranch Vineyard Riesling 2025
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Naramata Ranch is a spectacular site with topography and geology that is a winegrower's dream. It's mostly rock, but upon closer examination, you find a mix of red granite on the surface overlying granite bedrock. The vines are approaching 50 years old, rooted to an unknown clone. On the palate, the style is generally opulent, with floral opening notes and a mix of lemon, lime, and the zest of limes and oranges, with a touch of savoury desert scrub. Complex and dry, it is currently somewhat unsettled and warming, but will no doubt harmonize over the next ten years under screwcap. The Ranch sits at the northern end of the Naramata Bench, at Latitude 49.67˚, running up against the mountains of Chute Lake.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Martin's Lane The Oregon Project Hyland Vineyard Riesling 2025
McMinnville, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesThe Oregon Project began with the 2024 winter deep freeze in the Okanagan Valley, which left many BC wineries without fruit at harvest. Winemaker Shane Munn and viticulturist Kurt Simcic looked south to Oregon for replacement grapes that best matched the demanding Martin's Lane style. The Hyland opens with a more overt botrytis character, featuring honey, ginger, smoke, green apple, and orange, with a smoky, savoury finish. Overall, it is a drier, rounder riesling with a glycerol-aided silky texture and fine balance, ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $65.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Martin's Lane Miranda Vineyard Riesling 2025
Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesMartin's Lane Miranda Vineyard Riesling comes from Oregon's Dundee Hills. It is one of several labels winemaker Shane Munn produced after the 2024 deep freeze left him with no usable grapes in BC. It had 48 hours of skin contact, giving it a dense, extracted style with pronounced dry extract. Quite mineral and wet-stone, with mostly orange and tangerine mixed with orange blossom and flecked with honey and tea. We love the tension and balance, amd the refreshing dry finish despite 8.5 grams of residual sugar. It also has a slight exotic character, thanks to 20% of the fruit arriving with botrytis.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Martin's Lane Julius 2025
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaJulius is Martin's Lane's take on blouge wine, the increasingly fashionable red-white hybrid style that sits somewhere between a pale red, a rosé, and a chillable, aromatic co-ferment. In this case, the '25 blends two varieties harvested on the same day: Simes Vineyard Pinot Noir from East Kelowna, accounting for 75% of the blend; and Fritzi's Vineyard Riesling from West Kelowna, contributing the remaining 25%. The name may be playful, but the style is more than a novelty. Spontaneous carbonic fermentation with 50% whole clusters and a 12 day maceration give Julius its juicy, high toned personality. At the same time, six months in neutral Austrian oak keep the texture fine and the fruit front and centre. Expect a lively, delicious, lightly structured wine with earthy, spicy cherry notes and a vibrant palate. Best served slightly chilled.Prices:| BC | $75.00 | 750ml |
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96PTS
Martin's Lane The Oregon Project Hyland Vineyard Pinot Noir 2024
McMinnville, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesSourced from one of Oregon's oldest landmark pinot vineyards, and made with the Coury clone planted in 1975, the Hyland pinot wine has an exuberant nose of bright, pure red cherry, strawberry, and raspberry, lightly dusted with spice and earth. Finesse over power leaves a savoury, medium-weight pinot on the right side of savoury / meaty, with polished, suave tannins and a silky, refined finish. Highly attractive on the nose and in the finish, all at 13% alcohol. The style reflects the slightly cooler McMinnville AVA. Back up the truck.Prices:| BC | $115.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Martin's The Oregon Project Lane Gregory Ranch Pinot Noir 2024
Yamhill Carleton, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesThe Oregon Project began during the 2024 winter deep freeze in the Okanagan Valley, which left many BC wineries, including Martin's Lane, without fruit. Winemaker Shane Munn and viticulturist Kurt Simcic looked south to Oregon for replacement grapes. They found several sources that, in the end, proved as close a fit as possible to the demanding Martin's Lane style. Gregory Ranch Vineyard sits in the forested foothills of the Coast Range in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, surrounded by Douglas fir, oak, and pine, in a wilder, cooler landscape that helps explain the wine's earthy, structured character. The site is closely associated with Josh Bergström, whose Bergström Wines first used Gregory Ranch fruit in the 2010 vintage. It has long been known for Pinot Noirs of concentration, savoury depth, tannic grip, and lower alcohol intensity. In 2024, clone 828 brings that profile into focus: striking, earthy, and rustic, with firm structure, length, and complexity rather than simple fruit sweetness. It finished at a moderate 13.5% alcohol.Prices:| BC | $115.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Martin's Lane Fritzi’s Vineyard Riesling 2025
West Kelowna, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFritzi's Vineyard is a small property at 49.838˚N, just below Mission Hill Family Estate at the base of Mt. Boucherie, a long-dormant volcano in West Kelowna. The parcel faces southeast and is named after owner Anthony von Mandl's mother. It has been a reliable producer year in and year out, and in 2025 winemaker Shane Munn believes it is among the best. The clone 21B vines are now over a quarter century old and typically give this dry wine a restrained mineral base, with dry tangerine and lime, with harmonious streaks of pear, and bright acidity. Surely one of the best rieslings in North America. The fermentation is spontaneous in German oak casks and includes minimal six hour skin contact.Prices:| BC | $65.00 | 750ml |
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01 October 2026
89PTS
Township 7 Interlude Red 2024
United StatesThe Interlude Red is a replacement wine made with an unusual mix of pinot noir (42%), cabernet sauvignon (29%), merlot (20%), and syrah (9%), crafted in an obvious fruit forward style. The pinot noir and syrah come from Four Palms Vineyard in Sonoma's Russian River Valley, while the cabernet sauvignon and merlot come from Double D Vineyard in Washington State's Rocky Reach AVA. The nose is an inviting black cherry, strawberry affair with notable brown spice. The palate is soft, round, and juicy with gentle tannins and a long, juicy, spicy finish. This is a perfect barbecue red for grilled meats or chicken.Prices:| BC | $29.97 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Moon Curser Border Vines 2024
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2024 vintage followed the devastating January cold snap that severely impacted the region's grape crop. Moon Curser kept some vines alive, and those grapes, along with some from neighbours in the deep south Okanagan, allowed production of a limited quantity of Border Vines. Look for a medium to dark ruby hue that hints at ripe black cherry, cassis, plum, and red currant sprinkled with desert sagebrush. Lightish, soft, round, and easy to sip, you can drink this now and over the next three to five years. The fruit is a blend of 63% cabernet franc, 22% merlot, and 15% cabernet sauvignon. It is destemmed, not crushed, and ferments in stainless steel. It is aged for one year in French oak, of which 24% is new.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Castello Romitorio Romitorio 2022
Tuscany, ItalyRomitorio is an older style Super Tuscan, featuring a 50/50 blend of syrah and petit verdot grown in Maremma and aged in concrete and oak. The nose is dark berried, with floral violets underscoring its rich palate. The attack layers black fruits, wild forest floor, dried herbs, and Tuscan countryside scents. It is stylish enough for a Super Tuscan but slightly more approachable and affordable than most. You can enjoy this with a steak or an old piece of Reggiano. Good value.Prices:| BC | $45.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $39.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $38.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Let It Bee Organic Cabernet Merlot Tempranillo 2024
Valencia, Valencia and Murcia, SpainI like these Let it Bee wines because they're juicy and fun to drink. The twist-off natural cork is equally easy to pull and replace. I'm not sure the cabernet adds much to the tempranillo and merlot in the blend, beyond a touch of astringency on the finish. Otherwise, the upfront fresh berries, mixed with plums and raspberries, welcome you in. The acidity is bright, and the palate is dry. It will need some food to round out the edges and soften the tannins, but it won't take much to tame this gulpable red. Grilled vegetables, burgers, or a meaty pasta dish all work here. Find it at Liberty Wine Merchants.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Painted Rock Red Icon 2023
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada2023 was an up-and-down year across the Okanagan, beginning with bud damage from a winter cold snap. Painted Rock escaped the worst with only some syrah damage, leaving the 55/20/15/10 merlot / petit verdot / cabernet sauvignon / malbec Icon blend to proceed as normal. In fact, this is an intense Icon with rich, elevated violets and black fruits, with some chocolate and plenty of spicy, peppery notes in the finish. The palate is no less concentrated, with fiery, peppery fruit, firm tannins, and a fresh finish. Time in the bottle is the story here. Five years is a good start, but it will easily age a decade. If you are a big red fan, you can open this now with a rare T-Bone steak or a lamb shoulder dish. The '23 Icon was barrel aged for 18 months in 30% new French oak.Prices:| BC | $79.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Famille Sichel Château Daviaud 2023
Bordeaux, FranceI loved the 2022 Daviaud, but the 2023 lacks the density and charm that fill the '22's mid-palate. The nose is fragrant, with pithy cranberry and cherry. The palate is medium weight, with bright acidity rising through the finish. Elegant and fresh, but it needs a bit of grilled meat or mushrooms to cut through the finish. In the late 1960s, the Sichel Family established itself in the southern part of Côtes de Bordeaux by setting up the Bel Air cellar, becoming the first Bordeaux negociant to possess its own winemaking cellar. In 2002, the family purchased Château Argadens in Saint André du Bois, and at the start of 2020, they took control of Château Daviaud, a property they already knew. The vineyards are planted on slopes facing south/south-west on the right bank of the Garonne River. The winemaking is traditional, and the wine ages in oak for six months.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
1 Mill Road Syrah / Pinot Noir 2024
1 Mill Road Syrah Pinot Noir 2024 is a true international blend. The pinot noir (44%) escaped the deep freeze on the Naramata Bench, while the syrah (56%) was grown in Washington State's Horse Heaven Hills, where outstanding syrah has been a fixture for more than two decades. The texture is the centrepiece of this red: soft and slippery, yet with impressive black fruit and structure throughout, finishing with cleansing minerality. This one is a winner by any measure.Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Domaine Artema La Petite Mort NV
CanadaLa Petite Mort was inspired by fortified wines from Banyuls and Portugal. Sold in 200mL bottles, the wine is a 47/40/13 blend of zinfandel, merlot, and cabernet sauvignon. It began in 2018 as a merlot and cabernet sauvignon blend, which was halted before completion by the addition of distillate to fortify the wine and retain some residual sugar. Six years later, they blended that wine with zinfandel and aged it another three months in American oak. The style is rustic and lacks the sweetness and roundness of a Tawny or Banyuls label. Still, it has a modicum of charm, with sweet cassis and vanilla before the alcohol kicks in, leaving a spicy, peppery finish. More time in the barrel would be welcome. It could be the start of an annual process that helps it mellow over time, say closer to the ten-year mark. The winery match is sea salt caramel chocolate.Prices:| BC | $27.90 | 200ml |
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