Brand new BC wine releases!

Our usual VQA wine store held a tasting of some brand new BC releases on Friday. My thoughts below:



Poplar Grove 2013 Pinot Gris ($19.90)

Pears and a touch of lemon on the nose, some pineapple joins in on the palate. Very well balanced acidity. Would be an excellent pair with seafood. 82.







Joie Farms 2013 A Noble Blend ($23.86)

My wife has long been a big fan of this; I've always enjoyed but not as much as her. This might be their best offering yet. Lots of fruit on the nose that intertwines with some spice (nutmeg?). Very strong flavors of fruit with some lemon and lime. Refreshing. 84.



Gray Monk 2013 Kerner ($18.88)

The 2011 vintage of this was a huge favorite of ours, 2012 not quite as good; this one reverts back to the greatness of the '11. Tiny notes of butter, slight citrus, with a lot of finesse. Very good now, and a little time in the bottle (but not much; 6 months to a year) will only improve. 85.






Church & State 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.87)


Blackberry and cherry with a hint of tobacco on the nose. Fruity palate, very light bodied. Needs some more time in the bottle to fully develop. 80.