Category: Grenache

What is meant by a “Cru” in wine?  The term “Cru” is most often used for the French classification system, but the “Cru” concept can apply to any vineyard region recognized for their superior wine quality. My last seminar during the Vancouver International Wine Festival was on the topic of “cru”.  What it is and how it is expressed.  We…

Andrew Jefford is an English journalist, radio presenter, poet, magazine editor, a wine writer for Decanter magazine and much more. He lives near Montpellier in France. Why am I telling you this?  Andrew lead our French Terroir Talk during this seminar at the Vancouver International Wine Festival.  If there was anyone with the background knowledge of wine and experience of…

My first Masterclass at the Vancouver International Wine Festival 2020 was about the wines from the Languedoc region produced by Gérard Bertrand and moderated by Anthony Gismondi.  Gérard Bertrand is the ambassador of the fine wines of Languedoc-Roussillon around the world and owns 16 estates with their unique terroirs in the region.  The Languedoc has, in general, had a poor…

I taste many wines at Trade tastings, plus public events like the Vancouver International Wine Festival or Taste Washington.  People who know me, know that I make detailed notes as I taste and can back up my wine ratings.  This year I went through all the wines I tasted in 2019 and have awarded my top 5-star rating to 10…

Whatever you are celebrating this December, it’s probably with family and/or friends for a rich meal at some point.  Food loves wine, so here are a few of my recommended wines that should go with many dishes, or to enjoy on their own before or after your meal. My Holiday BC Wine Suggestions White Wines Coolshanagh Chardonnay, Naramata Bench, 2016 ($25.99)…

Maison Sichel would like you to know about their winery and try their wines at the Vancouver International Wine Festival 2020.  Read about them in their own words. About Maison Sichel James Sichel and his 4 brothers own and manage their 7 generation family company, Maison Sichel, established in Bordeaux since 1883 and involved in many areas of the Bordeaux…

Please welcome Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné, an iconic winery from Hermitage in the Northern Rhone Valley to the Vancouver International Wine Festival.  Let them introduce themselves to you today. About Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné In 1834, a full 100 years before the introduction of the A.O.C. system, Antoine Jaboulet began to transform a sleepy region into one of the most…

We have new to our market in BC some exceptional wines from the Lirac and from Châteauneuf-du-Pape made by Domaine Duseigneur.  I had a preview of these wines and was able to interview Bernard Duseigneur, tasting through these wines and trying them with a light lunch.  I have been a great fan of Rhone Valley wines but had not yet…

Welcome to Jean-Claude Mas and Château Paul Mas who will be at the VanWineFest 2020.  Read about their history and wines in their own words. About Jean-Claude Mas Jean-Claude Mas is a man who relishes a challenge. His story illustrates this perfectly: a 4th generation winegrower but a 1st generation winemaker, he built a business from 17 hectares of inherited vines…

Who Is CVNE? Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España (the Northern Spanish Wine Company) CVNE was founded in 1879 in the town of Haro in Rioja, Spain by 2 brothers.  This is the 140th anniversary of this winery, which is now in its 5th generation of the family. CVNE is now comprised of 4 wineries: CVNE, Imperial, Viña Real and…