A couple weeks back Id realized that I was mid-streak in recommending wines that were slightly on the pricey side, and promised Id follow up with a handful of killer bargain wines for under $15. This week I keep my word, so grab a ten, a five and get thee to the wine store!
Bonifacio EC 2011 Vinho Tinto | Lisboa, Portugal | $13 | Private Wine Stores
At press time, Davie Streets was sittin on 91 bottles of this opulent red, and that numbers gonna dwindle quickly. Its made from a handful of indigenous Portuguese grape varieties youve never heard of, but who cares? What matters is that this bottle is more about the sum than its parts, enveloping generous cherry fruit, super-ripe blackberries, grape-flavoured Jolly Ranchers and a couple twists of fresh-ground pepper. Very juicy and lip-smackingly delicious.
Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir | South East Australia | $13.99 | BC Liquor Stores
For fourteen bucks, its pretty impressive to be able to get a Traditional Method (ie- Champagne Method") sparkler in this market never mind one thats actually quite tasty. That secondary ferment in the bottle not only gives the thing its bubbles, but also elements of fresh-toasted sourdough bread. Now imagine slathering that sourdough with almond butter and marmalade, and wash it all down with fresh lemonade. Thats what youve got here. Perfect for backyard sippin and patio snackin.
2011 Five Vineyards Rosé | Okanagan Valley, BC | $14.99 | BC Liquor Stores
From a local producer where no introduction in necessary, comes this Merlot and Cabernet blend thats itching for spicy Asian flavours and seafood. Taking a big slurp of this is akin to standing barefoot in the grass and plunging your mouth into ultra-ripe watermelon, wiping drips off of your chin with your forearm. Serve this one icy-cold and watch your guests grin with delight!
2010 Pinot Gris 375ml | Okanagan Falls, BC | $15 | Marquis Wine Cellars
OK, Im totally cheating here because while this is one is indeed $15, its only a half-bottle. But what a half-bottle! As I was discovering that Portuguese red at Marquis Wine Cellars, I couldnt help but notice that theyre stocking Blue Mountains popular Pinot Gris in their handy pocket-sized format. This is one of the Okanagans best white wines, with plenty of lemongrass, peaches and sage stirred in. Perfect for picnics, the beach or sneaking into a Hollywood summer blockbuster.
Le Grand Prébois 2011 Blanc | Vin de Pays, France | $14.85 | Private Wine Stores
Brand-new on shelves at Main Streets Brewery Creek Liquor Store is this 50/50 blend of organic Marsanne and Viognier, brought to you by the well-regarded folks behind the iconic Château de Beaucastel in the Rhône Valley. Perfumed and pretty, this flirty little white is all about tropical fruit (pineapple, mango, citrus) and white flowers like jasmine and elderflower. Bring on the sun!
