Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, is quickly approaching, and with it, expectations, such as having a nice meal, whether at home (due to COVID), or out at a restaurant. Wine is always appreciated with a meal. Some wines though are viewed…
A whole year has passed since my 2020 Wine Quiz, which was related to wines, wineries, and winemakers I was able to interact with and write about on mywinepal.com. Here is my 2nd Annual 2021 Wine Quiz. There are 10…
Grenache, Syrah, Mouvedre blends (GSM) are full-bodied, full of flavour, and please people that enjoy big, hearty red wines. This blend of grapes also makes the famous red Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. I have two GSM wines from Gérard Bertrand from the…
To celebrate BC Liquor Stores’ 100th year anniversary, a collection of rare, premium, collectible wines and spirits will be released on March 13, 2021, at participating Stores. The collection features many top-rated wines, along with a selection of classics from the…
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…
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…
Wine agencies attend various trade events where they show their wines alongside other agencies. But to be able to better tell their story about these wines these agencies usually have a portfolio tasting once a year where various winery principals…
As stated by the Vancouver International Wine Festival, “Rhône grapes have made an indelible mark in their native region in France, but are now being grown successfully throughout the wine world. While Syrah, Grenache, Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne have unique…
One of the perks of being a wine writer is an invitation to a portfolio tasting from a wine agent. The agency can bring out winery principals in some cases, who you can have a chat to about their wines. …
A mysterious postcard arrived in the mail inviting me to visit “the Family” and try some wine. The Cosa Nostra maybe? The address took me to a notorious location in downtown Vancouver, The Penthouse Night Club”. Certainly a different location…