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Great Estates Okanagan
 
January 16, 2024 | Great Estates Okanagan

To Decant or Not to Decant

Wine being poured into a wine decanter

This decanting 101 guide explains why and how to decant wine. 

Many wines benefit from being decanted. The process which entails pouring wine from its bottle into a different vessel. The purpose is two-fold: to removing any sediment that may have formed over time and to aerate a wine to enhance its aromas and flavours. Decanting wines for 30 minutes to two hours can also help maximize aromas and flavours. As a rule, aged and delicate wines will require less time decanted, while young and robust wines with more tannins can benefit from being decanted for longer periods. 

How to decant your wine for sediment:

Step 1: Choose a decanter or other clean, clear vessel from which the wine can easily be poured into glasses. And don’t worry; it doesn’t have to be a fancy crystal wine decanter, though of course it can be! 

Step 2: Now open your wine bottle carefully. The goal here is to avoid disturbing any sediment. 

Step 3: Hold a candle or flashlight under the neck of the bottle so that you can see any sediment in your wine as it nears the neck of the bottle.  

Step 4: Slowly and steadily pour the wine into the decanter until you see the sediment reach the neck of the bottle. Sediment isn’t always chunky or obvious; in some cases, it can appear cloudy or dusty. 

Step 5: Discard the remaining ounce or two of sediment-filled liquid in the bottle. The wine is now ready to serve. 

How to decant your wine for aeration:  

If your wine is young and quite tannic, feel free to vigorously pour the wine into a decanter to maximize the air contact, which will open or aerate the wine faster. 


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See Ya Later Ranch 2022 Jimmy My Pal

See Ya Later Ranch 2022 Jimmy My Pal

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Saintly | the good rosé 2022

Saintly | the good rosé 2022

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Black Sage Vineyard 2021 Shiraz

Black Sage Vineyard 2021 Shiraz

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Time Posted: Jan 16, 2024 at 11:35 AM Permalink to To Decant or Not to Decant Permalink
Great Estates Okanagan
 
December 30, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

Sparkling Wine 101

If you’ve ever wondered how they get the bubbles in your bottle of sparkling wine, here’s the answer: The Foundation of Fizz: A Guide

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Raise your glasses wine enthusiasts, because today we're diving into the effervescent world of sparkling wine. It's a tale that dates back centuries to a time when bubbly was once reserved for royalty and the elite. The origins can be traced to the Champagne region of France in the 17th century. Initially, it was a happy accident, as winemakers struggled with secondary fermentation in the bottle. Fast forward to today, and sparkling wine has become synonymous with celebrations worldwide. In Canada, the cool climate regions of Ontario, British Columbia and Nova Scotia are ideal destinations for producing crisp and complex sparkling wines that rival their European counterparts.

Traditional Method: A Symphony of Bubbles

When it comes to crafting sparkling wine, the traditional method is the gold standard. This process, also known as the “méthode Champenoise” or “méthode classique,” involves fermenting the wine completely in the bottle. The grape juice is fermented to a dry wine and then the a “tirage” of yeast and sugar is added to that base wine (called cuvée) and then bottled to start a second fermentation. The wine is aged on their lees (autolytic yeast particles) for a period of time to develop texture, and is then clarified by storing the bottle upside down so all of that dead yeast settles in the neck of the bottle (riddling). The bottles are then popped into freezing liquid to freeze that sediment so it can be easily removed in a process called disgorging. Bottles are finally topped up with a shot of wine and sugar (dosage) and corked again. 

Transfer Method: Precision in a Glass 

With the transfer method, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, just like the traditional method, however, it's then transferred into tanks before being sent through pressurized filters to remove the lees and rebottled. The result: This method preserves the wine's elegance and flavours, offering a balance of fruit notes and a creamy mouthfeel.

 Ancestral Method: A Taste of Tradition  

The ancestral method (méthode ancestrale) is an approach predating the traditional method where fermentation is stopped by chilling and filtration, and once the wine is in the bottle, it completes the process with the CO2 trapped inside. When the ideal CO2 level is achieved, the bottle is chilled, riddled and disgorged in the same way as the traditional method. In this case, no dosage is added. If you’ve heard of “Pet-Nat” for “pétillant naturel,” you’ll know that this method and resulting wine has become newly trendy with natural-wine fans. This process produces a beautifully cloudy, unfiltered wine with a natural sweetness. 

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Tank or Charmat Method: Old World Meets New

In this sparkling wine production, a sugar and yeast mixture (tirage) are combined and added to a base wine which has already been fermented to dryness. The liquid is then placed in a large tank to undergo second fermentation. As this happens, pressure builds up in the tank, thereby adding those desired bubbles. The wine is then filtered, a dosage added and the wine is bottled. Style-wise, tank method wines are fresh with yeasty secondary flavours such as toast, biscuit and brioche. 

Simple Carbonation Method: The Effortless Bubbles 

Last but not least, we have the simple carbonation method, where wine’s effervescence is introduced artificially. Expect easy-drinking and typically more value-positioned sparkling wines here with crisp, refreshing bubbles and a focus on fruit-forward flavours like apple and pear. 

A Toast to Diversity in the World of Sparkling Wine 

Each sparkling wine production method adds its unique touch to the overall final experience in the glass. Whether you're celebrating the holidays or simply sipping for the sheer pleasure  of it, there's a sparkling wine for every moment. So, go head and pop the cork to enjoy the delightful journey that is sparkling wine!


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See Ya Later Ranch Sparkling Rose

See Ya Later Ranch Sparkling Rose

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Steller's Jay 2017 Blanc De Noir

Steller's Jay 2017 Blanc De Noir

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Inniskillin Okanagan 2020 Discovery Sparkling Tempranillo

Inniskillin Okanagan 2020 Discovery Sparkling Tempranillo

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Time Posted: Dec 30, 2023 at 12:52 PM Permalink to Sparkling Wine 101 Permalink
Great Estates Okanagan
 
December 15, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

The Wine Lover’s Gift Guide

Wine gifts are our favourite gifts, especially when they’re carefully curated to celebrate the passions and pastimes of our giftees.

For the PJ-Loving Games Couple 

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The Wine: Saintly the good sparkling rosé

Pair this gift with: A classic board game + matching PJs + stemless wine glasses 

Your best-friend couple can’t wait for the winter holidays to pull out a new puzzle, PJs (matching ones, of course!) and share great wine on quiet evenings, sans cell phones. This gift celebrates their favourite downtime.  

Wine reco: A bottle of sparkling that makes ordinary, everyday moments a touch extraordinary! 

For the Bibliophile 

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The Wine: Jackson-Triggs Grand Reserve Chardonnay VQA 

Pair this gift with: A cozy blanket + scented candle + big read 

Your reading friend, whose idea of a good time involves a can’t-put-it-down novel, a hearth and a glass of great wine, will love this themed gift bundle.

Wine reco: Try a rich aromatic wine such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir or Chardonnay for this giftee; they’ll appreciate the complex flavours and nuance typical of these varietals. 

For the Cheese Fanatic 

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The Wine: Jackson-Triggs Grand Reserve Entourage Sparkling Finished with Icewine  

Pair this gift with: A cheese board + cheese knives + wine coasters  

Manchego, Asiago, Emmenthal, Blue: They love them all. What better gift than all of the essentials needed to create a spectacular wine-and-cheese party!  

Wine reco: Do your homework & ID your giftee’s favourite wine and start there. Add a handcrafted cheeseboard, cheese knives and wine coasters and you’ve got a most elegant offering. 

For the Zen Friend 

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The Wine: Inniskillin Discovery Series East-West Merlot-Cabernet  

Pair this gift with: Bubble bath + face roller + robe 

This person takes the art of relaxation seriously. For them, a gift that promotes calm and quiet time is priceless.  

Wine reco: This lovely smooth and rounded red, plush with plum and vanilla suits this most coveted me-time moment.

For the Outdoorsy Type 

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The Wine: Inniskillin Reserve Series Cabernet Franc Rosé 

Pair this gift with: Picnic basket + corkscrew + thermal wine tumblers 

They will picnic anytime, anywhere. This gift is tailored to their love of the easy, alfresco wining and dining with a well-equipped picnic basket, insulated wine glasses plus corkscrew.  

Wine reco: A fruity rosé would be ideal for this outdoorsy themed present. 


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Saintly | the good rosé 2022

Saintly | the good rosé 2022

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Steller's Jay 2018 Mountain Jay Brut

Steller's Jay 2018 Mountain Jay Brut

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See Ya Later Ranch 2018 Legacy Series Chardonnay

See Ya Later Ranch 2018 Legacy Series Chardonnay

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Dark Horse Vineyard 2017 Meritage

Dark Horse Vineyard 2017 Meritage

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Time Posted: Dec 15, 2023 at 12:34 PM Permalink to The Wine Lover’s Gift Guide Permalink
Great Estates Okanagan
 
December 14, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

Trusting the Terroir

wine vineyard

For Le Clos Jordanne and its passionate winemaker, there's magic in the alchemy where Old World meets New World. 

The winery and its winemaker focus on cool-climate varietals Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 

Le Clos Jordanne captured the coveted grand prize at the prestigious wine competition Judgement of Montreal in 2009 for its 2005 Claystone Terrace Chardonnay. It beat out the French, the Californians and the Aussies, quite a feat since it was only the second wine ever produced by the Niagara winery. In subsequent years, the winery has taken home countless medals for what some have called “some of this country’s most profound and beautiful Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs wines ever made”. And this fall, a true competition is about to be uncorked as the Le Clos Jordanne plans to introduce two new Claystone releases as well as a pair of its most premium, 2020 Grand Clos wines. It’s the crowd-pleaser versus the king, says Thomas Bachelder, Le Clos Jordanne Winemaker.

 “For the Grand Clos Chardonnay versus the Claystone Chardonnay, Claystone has this beautiful very strong, almost saline seaside minerality and acidity whereas the Grand Clos is more refined and has a beautiful chalkiness”. 

This year will be an opportunity to taste both side by side, he explains. “It’s a fun polemic” since it’s been a full decade since a new Claystone varietal has hit the store shelves. 

“For the Grand Clos Chardonnay versus the Claystone Chardonnay... Claystone is a little wilder and a little less composed, with a little more fruit, but just as noble.” - Thomas Bachelder, winemaker, Le Clos Jordanne

At Le Clos Jordanne, the strategy was Burgundian in style: to create a vineyard defined by its appellations.

Looking back, perhaps one could have anticipated the competition: a battle of terroir. But then that was the point when Le Clos Jordanne was founded in 2000. The original vision of the winery, a joint venture in Ontario between Vincor of Niagara (now Arterra Wines Canada) and the Famille Boisset of Burgundy, was born of tradition. The strategy was to create a “domaine” structured in the Old-World manner and produce exceptional Burgundian-style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, each being the ultimate expression of its unique, New World Niagara terroir.

The mission has not changed, and over time, by listening to the land and the grapes, the winery with Bachelder as its lead, has identified a “single-vineyard-within-a-vineyard” across all the estate’s approximately 50-hectare of vineyards. The approach is similar to the Grand Cru tier in Burgundy, the “clos” refers to the enclosure that is the vineyard itself, a natural plateau on the Jordan Bench surrounded on three sides by forest.

Lawrason explains why this matters: “The terroir hunters are important because they are accelerating the process of defining sub-regions that regulators, such as in the VQA of Ontario, eventually recognize as being different enough to have their names on the labels. As is the case in Europe where there are hundreds of appellations, large and tiny.”.

This is the future, and says the critic, efforts like Bachelder’s are “an ideal chance to taste the progress”. It’s this progress that is getting Le Clos Jordanne wines noticed around the globe. There’s so much potential, says Bachelder. He’s excited to ramp up marketing to get the word out about the winery’s amazing products and to develop online sales, which will all ultimately help enable the next vintages at Le Clos Jordanne and more future award winners.

The Claystone Terrace Release: A Perfect Pair

Claystone Terrace Pinot Noir has an outstanding wild black and red berry perfume, mouthfeel, mineral and savoury overtones and a long, rich finish. 

Claystone Terrace Chardonnay is likewise noteworthy. A wine of precision and tension, it boasts a great breadth of fruit, savoury nuances and stony minerality. 

For its 2022 debut, the Claystone Pinot Noir and Chardonnay will be available to try at select restaurants with limited availability also for Great Estates Wine Club Members only.


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Jordan Village Pinot Noir

Jordan Village Pinot Noir

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Le Clos Jordanne 2020 Claystone Terrace Chardonnay

Le Clos Jordanne 2020 Claystone Terrace Chardonnay

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Jordan Village 2020 Chardonnay

Jordan Village 2020 Chardonnay

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Le Clos Jordanne 2020 Claystone Terrace Pinot Noir

Le Clos Jordanne 2020 Claystone Terrace Pinot Noir

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Time Posted: Dec 14, 2023 at 9:24 AM Permalink to Trusting the Terroir Permalink
Great Estates Okanagan
 
December 8, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

For the Love of Liquid Gold

frozen grapes on the vine

Tracing the history of Icewine in Canada, starting with pioneering Inniskillin co-founders Donald Ziraldo and Karl Kaiser. 

Story has it that Icewine was discovered by happy accident in the late 1700s in Germany when an early frost had farmers scrambling to save their crops. Fast-forward to the 1980s when several winemakers in the Niagara region recognized cold-climate Ontario as an opportunity for crafting the iconic sweet wine right here at home. Inniskillin winery co-founders Donald Ziraldo and the late Karl Kaiser were pioneers in the category. An Austrian by birth, winemaker Kaiser was familiar with the iconic sweet wine from his homeland and attempted Inniskillin’s first vintage in 1983. Alas, birds devoured that sweet crop before it could be picked so the first bottling didn’t occur until a year later. The duo established the country’s Icewine dominance when they captured the Grand Prix d’Honneur trophy at the 1991 Vinexpo International wine competition in France with their 1989 Vindal Icewine. The rest, as they say, is history. In 2000, Inniskillin teamed up with the reputed Austrian crystal company Riedel to create a signature Icewine glass. The reasoning: Just as there is a purpose-built flute to enhance the attributes of Champagne, so too should there be unique glassware to optimize the glorious character of Icewine. The collaboration resulted in the Vinum Extreme, a small tulip-shaped glass crafted to enhance the delivery of fruit aromas to the nose and the most balanced overall expression of the liquid. 

Serve Icewine chilled – about 10-12°C – and pair with both savoury and spicy dishes.

What is Icewine and how do you serve it for the ultimate experience? 

Technically speaking, Icewine can be made using many different varietals, but best results come from grapes boasting complexity of flavour, exceptional aromatics and high acidity. In Canada, typical varietals include Riesling, Vidal, Gewürztraminer and Cabernet Franc. The wine’s extraordinary signature sweetness comes from the fact that grapes are plucked frozen from the vine, when the frosty vine-yard air reaches -8 to -12C. Then, they’re immediately pressed to extract their rich, golden, concentrated juice. In fact, Germany may be credited with inventing Icewine or Eiswein, but its climate does not ensure a harvest every year. That’s not true for Canada where we’re guaranteed the requisite, frigid temperatures. Icewine’s intense sweetness accounts for its positioning as the ultimate dessert wine, but it’s so much more than that. With its concentrated nature and balance of sweetness with acidity, it’s tailormade for cocktailing, delivering exponential flavour with very little volume. Hello Icewine martinis! Serve it chilled – about 10-12°C – and pair with both savoury and spicy dishes. Its sweetness plays perfect palate counterpoint to intense herbs and chili heat. And don’t forget the cheese tray: Icewine’s harmony with rich and robust cheeses from Brie to blue is legendary. Remember too that, unlike regular table wine, Icewine will keep in the fridge for up to a month once opened, so you don’t have to enjoy the entire bottle at a single sitting. Feel free to forgo the cheese or dessert course altogether. The sweet and nuanced elixir provides a truly exceptional tasting moment all on its own. 

The classic Icewine that put Canada on the world stage 

The classic icewine and the one that put Canadian Icewine on the international stage. In 1991, Inniskillin's 1989 Vidal Icewine was named the World's Best Wine (not just dessert wine) when it won the Grand Prix D'Honneur at Vinexpo in France. Rich tropical flavours of mango, honey, peach and papaya, and bright acidity are all key characteristics of Inniskillin Icewine and the reason this wine is always a favourite. 


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Jackson-Triggs 2019 Reserve Riesling Icewine 375mL

Jackson-Triggs 2019 Reserve Riesling Icewine 375mL

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Inniskillin Okanagan 2018 Vidal Icewine 375ml

Inniskillin Okanagan 2018 Vidal Icewine 375ml

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See Ya Later Ranch 2018 Vidal Icewine

See Ya Later Ranch 2018 Vidal Icewine

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Time Posted: Dec 8, 2023 at 8:54 AM Permalink to For the Love of Liquid Gold Permalink
Great Estates Okanagan
 
December 6, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

Wine Glasses 101

various wine glasses and wine varietals.

How many wine glasses is too many wine glasses? We're taking it back to basics with four common wine glass styles and what wines they complement – so you can enjoy all the flavours of your wine, in style. 

Flute glasses for sparkling wine 

Pair your bubbly with a tall and narrow flute glass. The narrow opening helps concentrate the complex aromas of sparkling wines while keeping the bubbles from dissipating too quickly so your bubbly continues to sparkle as you sip and enjoy. Wondering about coupes? Beautiful and on-trend, this glassware will emphasize the body and aroma of your sparkling wine versus the nature of the wine’s bubbles, which will disappear more quickly because of the glass’s more open design. 

Icewine glasses for Icewine 

Did you know that Inniskillin founder Donald Ziraldo enlisted Georg Riedel to design the perfect glass for Icewine? The resulting glass is tailormade for Icewine and crafted to deliver the ultimate expression of the wine's delicate notes made from those concentrated frozen grapes. Chill and serve for best results..

Tulip glasses for white wine 

Tall like a flute glass with a narrow base that widens at the center and tapers at the top: The unique shape of a tulip glass enhances the citrus and floral aromas of light and crisp white wines. The long stem keeps the warmth of your hand away from the liquid, thereby keeping the wine cool, calm and collected. 

Burgundy glasses for red wine 

Enjoy your light-to-medium bodied reds in a Burgundy glass. The wide bowl unlocks complex aromas and also helps tame acidity and tannins, while the narrow opening protects the delicate balance of the lighter bodied reds – perfect for Pinot Noir or Gamay Noir. Don't forget to swirl before sipping to aerate the wine which will help optimize that aforementioned unlocking of the bouquet and softening of tannins. 

The multipurpose wine glass 

If you’re looking for stemware with is both stylish and functional, and that suits your multi-varietal passions, look for an all-purpose glass that has good height without a too-delicate stem that might be in danger in the dishwasher. Delicate is lovely for the sipping experience and aesthetics, but you don’t want a fragile glass that won’t last either so go for a glass in the design middle ground. That’s the case also for the bowl of the glass. Midsized is best: not too globe-like and not too slender, so that it suits a wine collection containing Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, plus Cabernet Sauvignon and Gamay. And if your budget will allow, opt for crystal over glass. 


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Black Sage Vineyard 2020 Shiraz

Black Sage Vineyard 2020 Shiraz

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See Ya Later Ranch 2020 Rover

See Ya Later Ranch 2020 Rover

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Steller's Jay 2018 Mountain Jay Brut

Steller's Jay 2018 Mountain Jay Brut

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Inniskillin Okanagan 2018 Vidal Icewine 375ml

Inniskillin Okanagan 2018 Vidal Icewine 375ml

Buy now

Time Posted: Dec 6, 2023 at 8:43 AM Permalink to Wine Glasses 101 Permalink
Great Estates Okanagan
 
November 28, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

One-Bite Apps

Red wine paired with an elevated cheese board of soft, hard, and aged cheeses. 

These easy, elevated appetizers are not only super-tasty, but they’ll keep your other hand free for your wine glass.

  1. Olive, cheese and pancetta kebabs: Customizable this Italian-style app with your choice of cheese, cured meat and olives. Serve a dry sparkling wine.
  2. Sweet and spicy nuts: Mixed nuts baked with a dusting of sugar, paprika, chipotle and salt: Wicked! Icewine makes a great match here.
  3. Shrimp cocktail: So simple and always so good. Serve with a dry or off-dry Riesling or rosé.
  4. Mini quiches: Make ahead and freeze with pre-made pastry shells or cheat with a box of ready-made – no judgement here. Your favourite crisp white suits this app.
  5. Tater tots with aioli: These bites are high-low irresistible. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and they look fancy too! As with French fries, Chardonnay with these potato bites is brilliant.
  6. Cacio e pepe potato chips: If you know and love the pasta, this treat will be your new go-to. Top kettle chips baked with Pecorino then bake until melted; remove from oven; add a bit more cheese and plenty of ground black pepper, and wow! Try with dry, sparkling wine.
  7. Sausage rolls: Crispy and savoury. This old-school favourite still satisfies, especially with a few fancy mustards. Serve with a red Cabernet blend with bright acidity. 
  8. Dried apricots stuffed with chèvre and rolled in fresh thyme: Sweet-meets-savoury bites that are pretty too! Nibble alongside a glass of Viognier or Chardonnay.
  9. Mini toasts with tomato jam and sardines: Who knew canned fish was so chic! Serve with a light-bodied red.
  10. Figs with bacon and chili oil: Sweet, salty, crispy, hot – enough said! A rosé with a tiny bit of residual sugar would be perfect to sip alongside this elegant app.   

Shop the Article:

Steller's Jay 2018 Mountain Jay Brut

Steller's Jay 2018 Mountain Jay Brut

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Inniskillin Okanagan 2018 Vidal Icewine 375ml

Inniskillin Okanagan 2018 Vidal Icewine 375ml

Buy now

Saintly | the good rosé 2022

Saintly | the good rosé 2022

Buy now

See Ya Later Ranch 2018 Legacy Series Chardonnay

See Ya Later Ranch 2018 Legacy Series Chardonnay

Buy now

Black Sage Vineyard 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon

Black Sage Vineyard 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon

Buy now

Time Posted: Nov 28, 2023 at 7:07 AM Permalink to One-Bite Apps Permalink
Great Estates Okanagan
 
November 24, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

Wine-Infused Jams

a collection of jams and winter decorations

Wine-Infused Jams 

Spices, fresh fruit and wine combine in these delicious – and giftable – wine-infused jam recipes.

This collection of wine-infused jams will make a brilliant addition to your pantry. Sweet and savoury, each one takes a classic Jackson-Triggs wine as its recipe centre point: an aromatic sparkling wine, rich red and crisp citrusy white. The jams are super versatile too, and can be used to elevate burgers and sandwiches, charcuterie and cheeseboards as well as myriad fish and meat main courses. Delicious and handcrafted, they also make a thoughtful gift for the wine lover in your life.  

 Jackson-Triggs Savoury Sauvignon Blanc and Peach Jam 

Flavours of juicy ripe peaches, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc and fresh thyme unite in this fresh, savoury-meets-sweet jam. So versatile, it teams with everything from fresh oysters and fish tacos to rich, baked Brie. You can also whip it together with oil and vinegar to make a top-notch vinaigrette. 

Find the recipe here

Jackson-Triggs Sparkling Maple Bacon Jam 

This jam boasts a magical combination of sweet, salty and savoury flavours. A hint of sweetness and florality from the wine and tomato, the quintessential saltiness of bacon, plus warm, earthy spices: It's an inspired mix. Try it as a rich counterpoint to creamy mac and cheese or elevate your burger or grilled cheese sandwich. Brilliant! 

Find the recipe here

Jackson-Triggs Merlot and Wild Blueberry Jam 

Flavours of lush wild blueberries, rich Merlot and hints of vanilla fall beautifully into place in this decadent jam. It's a fantastic accompaniment to your charcuterie and cheeseboards, but also is a flavour booster for your tomato sauces, vinaigrettes and marinades. 

Find the recipe here


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Jackson-Triggs 2022 Reserve Merlot

Jackson-Triggs 2022 Reserve Merlot

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Jackson-Triggs Reserve Esprit Methode Classique

Jackson-Triggs Reserve Esprit Methode Classique

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Jackson-Triggs 2022 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc

Jackson-Triggs 2022 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc

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Great Estates Okanagan
 
November 23, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

Brand Spotlight: Nk’Mip Cellars

Nk’Mip Cellars Winery vineyard

An outstanding expression of culture combines with deep respect for the craft of winemaking and the spirit and history of the Osoyoos Indian Band.

Nk’Mip translates to “bottomland” in English, a reference to the southern end of the Osoyoos reservation where the winery sits, in one of the hottest and driest parts of Canada. Owned in partnership with Arterra, Nk’Mip (run by the Osoyoos Indian Band) proudly makes wine steeped in history and expressive of its identity, with an eye to celebrating a colourful past and a nod towards a quality-focused and authentic present and future. Nk’Mip is one of the many businesses that have earned the Band financial independence and relishes the ability to share its legacy with the community, both local and global.

The Philosophy

A sense of place infuses everything that is produced at Nk’Mip Cellars, and a love of the land and reverence for the region is evident in the wines it produces. Nk’Mip Cellars promises to express the variety, intensity and irresistible lure of the land in every bottle produced. 

The Winemaker 

Justin Hall grew up in Osoyoos, BC and his connection and respect for the land where he was born, is evidenced in the pride he takes in his day-to-day work and in every bottle of wine he produces. Justin first joined Nk’Mip Cellars after graduating from high school. He thought he wanted to be a mechanic, but after only a few days on the job as a cellar hand, working alongside former Senior Winemaker, Randy Picton, he was hooked. He discovered a newfound passion for winemaking, and today is the Estate Winemaker at Nk’Mip Cellars. 

Justin completed his certificate in the Winery Assistant and Viticulture program at Okanagan University College, and then went to Australia and New Zealand where he first worked the crush at Goundrey Winery and then completed a post-graduate diploma in Enology and Viticulture from New Zealand’s Lincoln University. 

Justin returned to Nk’Mip Cellars in 2009 and has grown from Assistant Winemaker to leading the team as Estate Winemaker today. A member of the Osoyoos Indian Band, Justin is proud to be one of the very first Indigenous winemakers in the world and a protector of the land.  Justin’s commitment to people, his craft, and the land is evident in the award-winning, quality-driven, and expressive wines of Nk’Mip Cellars.  

Nk’Mip’s Award-Winning Wines

Nk’Mip fine wines take advantage of the superior grape-growing region of Osoyoos, British Columbia. Offerings include Winemaker’s (exceptional sips for everyday occasions); Qwam Qwmt (premium, limited quantity wines) and; Mer’r’iym (blended bottles for celebrating). 

Known for creating wines with interesting flavours that are exceedingly drinkable, Nk’Mip Cellars lets the land, with all its variation and complexity from year-to-year, lead the way. 

2021 Winemaker’s Chardonnay: All Canadian Wine Championships 

Pineapple, pear and butterscotch aromas that carry on to the palate, rounding into a balanced, slightly creamy finish.  

2019 Qwam Qwmt Syrah: British Columbia Lieutenant Governor’s Wine Awards 

Deep purple and delicious, this wine boasts aromas of cherry, cedar and spice that lead to a silky palate with flavours of berries, dried plum and cracked pepper and a vanilla finish. 

2019 Qwam Qwmt Chardonnay: Wine Align National Wine Awards of Canada 

This Chardonnay features aromas of butterscotch, melon and tropical fruits. The palate is creamy and rich with flavours of citrus with a hint of spicy oak and crisp acidity. 

What the Critics Say

Nk’Mip Cellars, 2019 Merriym White Meritage 

“This stylish blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon from Nk’Mip delivers richness and refreshment, with some of the attractive sage notes that make white wines from the Okanagan so distinctive. The sauvignon blanc component was fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and intensity of the fruit, while the later-ripening Semillon was fermented in 100-per-cent new French oak barrels for added complexity and character. The finished blend shows wonderful fruit intensity and concentration, with a flavourful thirst-quenching finish.” 91 points – Christopher Watters 

Nk’Mip Cellars, 2022 Pinot Blanc 

“Truly sapid iteration of pinot blanc with an amount of chardonnay not to be ignored and a phenolic character exhibited in the herbs and botanicals of the wine. Well made, medium-bodied, very dry and persistent. Stone fruit mainly and lime on the finish.” 90 points – Michael Godel  

Nk’Mip 2020 Qwam Qwmt Chardonnay 

“Delicate nose of green apple, pear and citrus gives way to a well structure palate with crisp acidity and a light touch of oak. Medium bodied with a long fresh and aromatic finish of honey and stone fruit.” 91 points – Janet Dorozynski 

Nk’Mip 2019 Qwam Qwmt Syrah 

“Here is a lovely, rich, creamy yet dry Syrah with maturing and melding aromas of ripe black cherry, pepper, vanillin, leather and some minerality. It is full bodied, quite smooth, warm and sophisticated. Great texture. The alcohol is warm to be sure; the length is excellent. It strikes me as one of the more Aussie styled Syrahs yet produced in B.C. At five years of age it is drinking beautifully, with silky tannins.” 94 points – David Lawrason 


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Nk'Mip Cellars 2020 Winemaker's Chardonnay

Nk'Mip Cellars 2020 Winemaker's Chardonnay

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Nk'Mip Cellars 2021 White Mer'r'iym

Nk'Mip Cellars 2021 White Mer'r'iym

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Nk'Mip Cellars 2019 Qwam Qwmt Syrah

Nk'Mip Cellars 2019 Qwam Qwmt Syrah

Buy now

Nk'Mip Cellars 2020 Winemaker's Merlot

Nk'Mip Cellars 2020 Winemaker's Merlot

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Time Posted: Nov 23, 2023 at 12:17 PM Permalink to Brand Spotlight: Nk’Mip Cellars Permalink
Great Estates Okanagan
 
November 21, 2023 | Great Estates Okanagan

It's a Wrap

wine bottles in gift bigs

6 Clever and creative ways to wrap a bottle of wine 

A bottle of favourite wine is always a much-loved gift, but forget those ho-hum gift bags.

Wine makes a perfect gift, whatever the holiday or occasion. When it comes to wrapping, channel your inner creative and add a touch of whimsy. Personalize your wine-bottle gift wrapping to suit the spirit of the season: Think wine-mulling spices, festive baubles or a handknit sleeve.

Be Inspired by the Holiday Sweater 

For that person on your gift list who is both down-to-earth but always stylish, a wine nestled in a knit bag fashioned from a cozy, castoff sweater-sleeve or sock is oh-so-apropos.

Speak to Their Décor Love

A carefully chosen bottle wrapped in a tea towel of vintage-look toile, boldly coloured linen (to suit their wow kitchen) or fun print is a perfect match for interior design-savvy wine fans.

Give Them Sugar and Spice

Is your giftee a mulled wine fan? Tie that bottle with a sachet of baking spices and a neck-tag recipe. Wine reco: Opt for a bottle with a bit of sweetness to suit the mulling mission.

Wrap it for the Europhile

Pair a favourite bottle with a handcrafted cutting board: It’s the perfect gift for your favourite, café-culture-loving host. 

Embrace the Season

Bring out the red, green, gold and glitz! Tip: Cut your festive wrapping paper to cover the body of the bottle, then dress the neck with a charming ornament, bow, gift tag or all of the above.

Go Modern Rustic

Who knew wrapping a favourite red, white or bottle of bubbly in festive paper with evergreen sprigs and berries would look so nonchalant chic? Plus it’s easy, elegant and recyclable!


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Black Sage Vineyard 2020 Shiraz

Black Sage Vineyard 2020 Shiraz

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Dark Horse Vineyard 2018 Chardonnay

Dark Horse Vineyard 2018 Chardonnay

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Steller's Jay 2017 Blanc De Noir

Steller's Jay 2017 Blanc De Noir

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Time Posted: Nov 21, 2023 at 7:14 AM Permalink to It's a Wrap Permalink