Wine can play a starring role in holiday season merriment, whether its the bottle you bring as a gift to your party host, to what you pair with that delicious Christmas Day turkey. If you’d rather save your money for buying presents, but still want to enjoy wines with a “wow,” here are six great B.C. wines under $20 each, perfect for sipping (and giving) this holiday season.
Okanagan Crush Pad, Narrative Rose 2014
For a taste of the Okanagan, the Crush Pad’s lush Pinot Noir-based rose is a fun option for a little Christmas cheer. This is a crisp, juicy, bright rose, with notes of citrus and berry. Turn on the holiday tunes, pour a glass, and add a little merry to your gift wrapping or tree-trimming session.
Price: $18.90
Blue Grouse Winery, Quill Red 2013
Grapes from Vancouver Island and the Okanagan merge in this oak barrel-aged red, which has notes of vanilla and cocoa. The nose on this wine exudes blackberry and raspberry along with a slight vegetal aroma. Flavours of blackcurrant lends itself to cassis and subtle spicy notes.
Price: $17.00
Singletree Winery, 2013 Siegerrebe
Siegerrebe means “victory” in German, and you’ll feel victorious, indeed, pouring this cool climate white from Singletree in Mt. Lehman. For fans of fuller, riper, fruitier whites, the crisp apple notes and floral aromatics will brighten up a wintry day.
Price: $19.14
Serendipity Winery, 2014 Viognier
This delightful white from Naramata is ideal for serving with an appetizer course (think scallops, duck, or lobster dishes) or to fill your glass when you’re nibbling on soft cheeses as the party’s getting underway. Soft citrus aromas pair with wonderful floral notes of orange blossom and lilac. On the palate there is juicy kumquat and blood orange, and strong flavours of apricot on the finish.
Price: $19.90
Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery, 2013 Gamay Noir
For a red that’s on the lighter side, Mt. Boucherie Estate’s Gamay Noir will work nicely with rich, savoury bites, or a hearty holiday meal. While the aroma gives off the scent of freshly ground coffee, your palate will find the flavours of fruit and subtle smokiness.
Price: $15.90
Evolve Cellars, Pinot Blanc 2014
If your holiday table is brimming with seafood (Feast of the Seven Fishes perhaps), or you’d prefer to pair a white with your roast turkey, uncork this fresh, fun Pinot Blanc from the Okanagan Valley. The aromas evoke juicy Granny Smith apples, and orchard peaches and pears, and the flavours bend to the tropical side, with hints of melon and grapefruit.
Price: $14.99