Feb 11, 2011
It may be the shortest month of the year, but it is certainly not the least. The snow continues to fall, eagles return to their northern nests, spring breaks begin, we celebrate the occasional leap year as well as Valentine’s day, and much more. So no matter what your reason to sit back and enjoy a little wine I recommend you do so – and here are a few of my February favourites.
ADAMI BOSCO DI GICA: a superb bubbly from a superb producer. Adriano Adami is painstaking bordering on obsessive about his proseccos. The Bosco di Gica is a classic extra dry, with alluring perfumed floral, appley-citrus fruit and wonderful juicy acidity creamy bubbles, and persistent finish making it fun to drink on its own or a great match for a crisp salad, creamy pasta dish, or some fresh oysters.
PARES BALTA BLANC DE PACS: a unique white wine in that it is a blend of Parellada, Macabeo, and Xarello; totally obscure grapes used for Cava, (Spanish sparkling wine), production but vinified in a dry table wine style. A light greenish-yellow colour with leafy flowery notes hinting at orchard fruits. Delicate and crisp on the palate with tangy citrus and apple-pear notes, a pleasant richness to the mouth feel and a long juicy finish. Another great by-the-glass wine or perfect for green olive tapenade, seafood, or mild cheeses.
GIANFRANCO ALESSANDRIA BAROLO: wonderful mid-winter red with soft ruby red colour fading slightly around the edges. The nose is layered with dried flowers, orange peel, tar, leather and spice. The well structured palate is balanced and has an elegant strength as it offers intense dried dark berry fruit, bittersweet cocoa, subtle earthiness, leather and tremendous length. Perfect to chase away the winter chill or enjoy with savoury braised beef ribs, or game stew.
Try these wines, or others and make your own February Favourites list; it’s a great way to pass the time while our days are still short and our nights are still cold. Remember: variety is the spice of life so try something new next time you pull the cork.
Enjoy!
Michael Kompass
Dec 15, 2010
Happy Holidays!
Take a look at our Blackcomb Liquor Store Newsletter for some great wine and “bubbles” suggestions that are fantastic options for this festive season!
Thanks to everyone for your support and we look forward bringing you more great wine and beer suggestions in 2011!
Blackcomb Liquor Store HOLIDAY NEWSLETTER
Cheers!
Nov 23, 2010
It is easy to become distracted during the rush of December. The population of our little mountain town triples seemingly overnight. We hear the clamour of lift lines, we see the joyous faces of children temporarily freed from the confines of schools, and we put our best foot forward to welcome another winter season. But when the snow falls thick and deep, and the hustle-bustle of the holidays is at its finest, we take comfort in the companionship of friends and family. We share together good company, boisterous conversation, food and drink, and great cheer. What better way to do that than with fine wine. It warms away a chill; it soothes a weary traveler; it calms the nerves; it whets the appetite; and of course it makes a great gift! The following are some of my favourites for happy holidays:
La Serra Moscato d’Asti – a classic, delicate and aromatic fruit-filled white, with just enough bubble and a hint of sweetness to make you want another glass. Besides, a little breakfast wine isn’t such a bad thing!
Tantalus Old Vines Riesling – a brilliant BC white wine produced in a drier style with racy acidity, crisp citrus and mineral notes. A palate loaded with nectarine, lean lemony fruit and hints of pine and slate. Great with anything from cheese plates to turkey dinners.
Hendry Block 28 Zinfandel – a long running family-run estate grown Zinfandel, offering ripe aromas and flavours of brambly berry fruit, leather, woodspice, and warm alcohol framed in French oak. A match for turkey, roast duck, or a little dark chocolate.
Domaine de Nizas Old Vines Carignan – an underappreciated red from Southern France with lots of body, dried berries, black olive and baking spice notes. Rich and robust, it will pair well with roast game or braised meat dishes.
Quinta do Crasto Vintage Port – the ultimate after dinner drink. Sweet and fortified, it virtually tastes like Christmas pudding in a glass, with a long lingering warmth that leaves you satisfied in a cozy armchair.
So whenever and however you celebrate this holiday season, as you sit with friends or gather around the festive feast. Remember to take time and enjoy a little holiday cheer.
Wishing you all the best for a happy and healthy holiday season!
Cheers!
Michael
Nov 5, 2010
SNAP Sea-to-Sky was kind enough to take some photos of our last wine club event. The theme was “cheap and cheerful”, and participants sampled wines from British Columbia, The United States, Chile and Argentina. Looks like everyone had a great time!
Take a look and ENJOY!
Michael Kompass passionately presents the wine selections.
Kerry Gamble & Tabetha Boot – CHEERS!
Marilyn & Ian Crichton
Lisa Fernandez, Dave Sharpe & Michelle Brown
Geoff Patterson helping to serve.
Linda McKean, Wilma Weidner & Kathy Macalister
Dave & Karen Williamson and Skippy Keith enjoying a toast.
