We found this little gem at our Costco wine shop the other day and based on some on-line ratings courtesy of the Wine Enthusiast, we thought we’d give it a go. The price was for a case lot only, no bottle purchases whatsoever so we needed to take a big leap of faith. Well…we were not disappointed (came back a couple of days later for another case and their stock was all sold out).

Each label features a different portrait of women who defied convention and sought to bring about a positive change in the world. This Red Blend honours Josephine Baker (1906-1975), who became one of the first women of colour to command the global entertainment stage. Rather than simply refusing to perform for segregated audiences, she literally raised the “bar” by opening her own café in Paris, where patrons from all walks of life were welcome. During World War II, she served the Allied cause as a spy.

A delicious mélange of Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, the colour is a deep ruby red with rich aromas and flavours of blackberry, raspberry, and cassis with hints of Asian spice, chocolate and vanilla. The finish has soft acidity and medium tannins. Just what we need to take off the winter chill. $70 for a case of 12, which works out to $5.83/bottle. But supply is VERY limited. Our Costco store sold-out within days.

Another deliciously great buy is the 2017 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Syrah ($13). Wine Enthusiast has rated it 87/100 and named it one of their Top 100 Best Buys of 2019.

The Syrah is co-fermented with a small amount of Viognier then aged in new and older French and American oak barrels for 14 moths. Look for a rich purple/ruby red colour with hints of violet, subtle aromas of blackberries, black cherries and raspberry jam with hints of spicy sausage, black pepper, incense, grilled hazelnuts and roasted coffee. Full of flavour, spicy and voluptuous with soft acidity and firm tannins, this is the perfect foil for grilled lamb or rib-eye steaks. Ridiculously great value.

There was still some Syrah left last time we checked. Plus, for a limited time, this is on a $12/case discount.

In Vino Veritas