Category Archives: Wine Columns

Syrah or Shiraz?

“What’s in a name?  That which we call a Syrah/Shiraz by any other name would smell as sweet”. With apologies to William Shakespeare for destroying his much-revered quote from Romeo and Juliet, Syrah/Shiraz has caused some confusion over the past … Continue reading

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Back-to-School wines (for Parents)

Next week it’s back-to-school week, a week that is looked forward to by parents and dreaded by students.  It’s also a week where there is a major outlay of money for books, school supplies, clothes and those little extras that … Continue reading

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Wines of Argentina

Of the two main wine producing regions of South America, Chile has the biggest reputation.  However, their next-door neighbour, Argentina, has in recent years begun producing some fantastic wines at great prices.  And consumers are snapping up these bargains. Argentina … Continue reading

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More Summer Wine Picks

The fantastic Okanagan summer heat that we have been experiencing makes the notion of a “summer sipper” sound mighty appealing, suggesting maybe a cool, refreshing beer or a crisp wine, possibly rose, probably white, served ice-cold in a cool moisture-beaded … Continue reading

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The Wines of Veneto

Italy has a very special place in the world of wine.  Wine has been produced here dating back to Egyptian times and viticulture and viniculture has always been a crucial part of the country’s identity.  Long stereotyped as a producer … Continue reading

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Wines for the B-B-Q

Summertime means being outdoors, and barbequing is the quintessential summertime outdoor activity.  The wafting scent of beef, chicken or fish grilling is unlike any other cooking aroma and when you have a great bottle of wine open and ready to … Continue reading

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The Queen of Grapes

If Cabernet Sauvignon is the King of grapes and one of the most widely planted on the plane then Chardonnay has to be the Queen.  With around 400,000 acres planted globally, it is second only to Airén amongst white wine … Continue reading

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Sauvignon Blanc’s for the Summer

While there is a plethora of great tasting white wines currently on the market, why not make an effort to try something completely different this summer.  The Sauvignon Blanc grape variety is growing in popularity and delivers a sharp variation … Continue reading

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The Influence of Oak on Wine

There has been a long standing relationship between wine and oak.  And while it is not entirely clear how barrels actually originated as a vessel for wine, we do know that certain varieties are enhanced by the use of oak.  … Continue reading

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Summer Wine & Beer Picks

Today is the official start to summer and there is just over a week left until all the kids are out of school and that plaintive cry…”I have nothing to do” begins.  But for us adults, it the official start … Continue reading

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