Who wants to only sip red wines throughout the winter?
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To contrast last week’s trio of winter warming reds, this week the focus is on good vibe whites. It’s all about balance, after all. Also, who wants to only sip red wines throughout the winter? There’s nothing wrong with dreaming of sunshine and warmth ahead, and these three whites will impart a sunny disposition on the palate. We can be both pragmatic and optimistic all the same. As it’s said, good vibes only.
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La Vieille Ferme 2023 Blanc, France
($14.99, #298505)
Close your eyes and you can almost picture the sunlit south of France while sniffing this floral, peachy white blend. Hailing from Luberon, in the southeastern stretches of the Rhône, this workhorse white brings an eclectic mix of cultivars common to the region (if you’re keeping track: Bourboulenc, Grenache blanc, Roussanne, Ugni blanc, and Vermentino). It’s soft and juicy to start, with a fruity and floral push before a balanced, simple finish. This is an easy, breezy bottle that is ready to pair with butter chicken and springtime pasta primavera.
Bottom line: B, Solid value vibes.
Wairau River 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand
($23.99, #954677)
It’s near impossible to sip New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc without having a smile crease your lips. It’s just so invigorating, so expressive. All of which can equal a great pick-me-up during the doldrums of winter. Case in point, consider Wairau River. From an estate with grapevines originally planted in 1978, this is classic Marlborough. Think extroverted aromatics of tropical fruit and herbaceous tones, with a juicy entry ripe with grapefruit. But amid all the bright fruit and fulsome texture an acidic core persists, bringing that engaging mix of fruitiness and freshness that’s just fun to sip and swirl — whether on a patio or on the couch.
Bottom line: A-, Lip-smacking vibes.
Kismet Estate Winery 2023 Pinot Grigio, B.C.
($25.99, direct from the winery)
First off, this should really be labelled Pinot Gris. I know, what’s in a name and all that. But, associations arguably remain: Pinot Grigio is Italian and tends to steer lighter and more angular. Pinot Gris is French and heralds more hearty and smooth — though same grape, it’s true. This delightful B.C. white is engagingly fulsome and textural, with evident pear and other orchard fruit. To be sure, there’s good acidity as well, but it’s the fulsomeness and smoothness on a lingering finish that really stand out. It’s not surprising that this PG won double gold at last year’s All Canadian Wine Awards.
Bottom line: B+, Supple vibes.
The Swirl: SOCIALE Winemakers Series