It’s the middle of July and that usually means we’re into summer with temperatures in the mid-20’s and lots of brilliant sunshine. What more could we want, aside from a vaccine for Covid-19?
How about three B.C. wines that are delicious for sipping and for alfresco dining? First up, the most commonly planted white grape in B.C., Pinot Gris.
The 2019 Haywire Pinot Gris ($24.90) was sourced from four Okanagan vineyards to add complexity. It was then fermented in concrete, stainless steel, and large oak vats, which also adds a depth of flavour. The fermented wine then undergoes six months of lees ageing which enriches the wine with complementary flavours and adds a creamy texture to the wine.
In the glass, the Haywire Pinot Gris enjoys a generous aroma of citrus, pear, and apple. And there is a good balance of fruit and acid to keep it fresh, clean, and tasty.
Haywire has a Switchback Vineyard version of their 2018 Pinot Gris ($26.90) which is a great way to learn about subtle differences in two wines produced from the grape. The Switchback Vineyard is made with organic fruit, whereas the regular Pinot Gris is not. The single vineyard Pinot Gris (PG) is fermented with native yeasts, whereas the other PG is fermented with commercial yeasts. And the single vineyard version is made from 2018 fruit whereas the other PG is from the 2019 vintage.
As a result, The 2018 Switchback Pinot Gris is more golden in the glass than 2019 PG, which is to be expected with an extra year’s aging. And the bouquet has a more tropical nose.
On the palate the 2018’s flavour is stronger and more complex than the 2019. I loved the pear and peach flavours with hints of bananas, a creamy texture, stony minerals and its extended fruit finish.
Both Pinot Gris go with just about everything including nothing, which is sometimes a fine option during this summer. When your appetite kicks in, serve them with a grilled albacore tuna salad, sushi or a Vietnamese Bánh mì.
Finally, the 2019 Haywire Gamay Rosé ($22.90) displays a beautiful pink-orange colour that hints it’ll resemble a Provencal rosé. Its nose has fresh summer strawberries that are also in the delicate flavour with added rhubarb, minerals, plus crisp acid and a creamy mouthfeel. and it ends on a dry finish.
The Gamay Rosé is best as a food wine. Enjoy it with an appetizer such as scallops wrapped in bacon. It’s light enough so it doesn’t fill you up but it gets your appetite in gear for the rest of the meal. Take it along chilled to a picnic with fried chicken, or serve with a bouillabaisse, which is what the French on the Mediterranean do with a rosé.
Haywire wines are produced at the Okanagan Crush Pad in Summerland and are available online as well as some government outlets, VQA shops, and private wine stores.
Eric Hanson is a life-long Richmond resident, retired teacher and wine educator. Eric has also taught wine appreciation courses in Richmond and throughout Metro Vancouver for many years. He continues to be a journalistic ambassador for the enchanting world of wine through his weekly column.
