Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars 2018 Pinot Blanc - 89pts

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars 2018 Pinot Blanc (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and private wine shops
Cost: $24.90
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: July 27th, 2019

Tasting Notes: A delightful, mostly dry and partially oak-aged Pinot Blanc, well-executed with a focus on clean, crisp, fruit and complimentary layers of texture enhanced by the complex élevage program. Look for aromas and flavours of Asian pear, lemon/lime, apricots, spent lees and peach pits. Pair with seafood, salads or hard cheeses. Drink now-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Winemaker's Cut 2017 Syrah - 90+pts

Winemaker's Cut 2017 Syrah (Oliver) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $34 + taxes
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 200 cases
Date Tasted: July 26th, 2019

Tasting Notes: Sourced from the same vineyard that also supplies Syrah to Le Vieux Pin, the 2017 edition of this limited cuvée opens with a fusion of sweet peppercorn and dark, spiced cherries on the nose followed by a similarly flavoured, dry palate where additional, layers of savoury flavours linger on the on the long, earthy finish.

Has the structure to age, so further development is likely. Put one down for a mid-term sleep of 2-3 years, but not too much longer than that. Once the bottom falls out of this sensual, feminine Syrah, it may lose its balance. Drink 2019-2023.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Boschendal Wines 2017 '1685' Chardonnay - 89+pts

Boschendal Wines 2017 '1685' Chardonnay (W.O. Western Cape) South Africa

Availability: BCLDB Stores
Cost: $18.99 + taxes
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: July 25th, 2019

Tasting Notes: A buttery and citrus delight with a touch of mineral notes throughout, this intense Chardonnay is a delight, especially at this price-point. 70% is fermented and aged in oak with the balance vinified in neutral, stainless steel. Look for lemon drop, pear, grapefruit, honeydew, creamy butter and leesy characters making it a perfect wine for all things lobster. Ready to go now or hold for further development over the next 2-3 years. Drink now-2022.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

River Stone Estate Winery 2018 Malbec Rosé - 88pts

River Stone Estate Winery 2018 Malbec Rosé (Oliver) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $22.90 (including tax)
Alcohol: 12.8%
Date Tasted: July 24th, 2019

Tasting Notes: This 100% Malbec rosé, the colour of watermelon Jolly Rangers, opens with a subtle, aromatic nose of white blossoms and delicate red fruit aromas. Extended skin contact adds a nice kick of tannin, enhancing the complexity of the wonderfully textured, (mostly) off-dry and pleasantly mouth-watering palate. Grapefruit zest and light spice notes show on the long finish. Ready to go now. Drink 2019-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

River Stone Estate Winery 2018 Pinot Gris - 89pts

River Stone Estate Winery 2018 Pinot Gris (Oliver) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $20.90 (including taxes)
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 236 cases
Date Tasted: July 13th, 2019
@drinkriverstone

Tasting Notes: Though packing some weight, a touch of residual sugar and a hint of brass in the colour, this is an un-oaked, refreshing Pinot Gris with a crisp, vibrant edge to the otherwise aromatic nose and to the textured, mouth-watering palate. Peach pits and flesh, honeydew melon, floral notes and mineral-y, stone fruit and lime characters make this wine a great companion for seafood, spicy chips or Gruyere cheese. Drink now-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

La Frenz Winery 2018 Sauvignon Blanc - 89pts

La Frenz Winery 2018 Sauvignon Blanc (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $19.91 + taxes
Alcohol: 12.2%
Date Tasted: July 19th, 2019

Tasting Notes: A balanced, well-constructed Sauvignon Blanc with a touch of pungency on the nose but primarily a showcase for how nicely citrus and melon fruit can coexist. The palate is bright and lip-smacking with just a hint of residual sugar on the lightly savoury and effervescent finish. Ready to be enjoyed in its youth. Drink 2019-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Fairview Cellars 2018 Sauvignon Blanc - 90pts

Fairview Cellars 2018 Sauvignon Blanc (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $22
Alcohol: 14.3%
Date Tasted: July 15th, 2019
@FairviewCellars

Tasting Notes: A pleasantly pungent and boisterous vintage of Sauvignon Blanc with aromas and flavours of gooseberries, grapefruit, crab apple, stone fruit, and grass. This Sauvignon Blanc has body and a corpulent, complex texture with layers of fruit peaking through tart tinges of citrus acidity and crisp, mineral notes. Drink 2019-2022.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars 2018 Sauvignon Blanc - 88pts

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars 2018 Sauvignon Blanc (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and private wine shops
Cost: $24.90
Alcohol: 12%
Date Tasted: July 17th, 2019

Tasting Notes: Opens with a subtle, Loire-esque scented nose with a focus more on fresh, fleshy fruit and rounded savoury aromas than the more in-your-face, pungent, New Zealand style of Sauvignon Blanc. This subtlety is juxtaposed by a bracing wave of Champagne-worthy acidity on the otherwise, similarly flavoured palate where added  notes of herbs, spice, minerals and lemon zest add complexity. Pair with Scallops or Oysters and enjoy this wine in its youth or over the next few years. Drink now-2020.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

River Stone Estate Winery 2018 Sauvignon Blanc - 88pts

River Stone Estate Winery 2018 Sauvignon Blanc (Oliver) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here
Cost: $21.90 (including taxes)
Alcohol: 12.8%
Production: 234 cases
Date Tasted: July 17th, 2019
@drinkriverstone

Tasting Notes: Subtler, on the pleasantly pungent nose than recent, more aromatic vintages, the 2018 edition of Sauvignon Blanc, sourced from a neighboring property in Oliver, keeps with the house style of a punchy mixture of herbs, citrus zest and tropical fruit. 

Minerals and a touch of spice show on the higher tempo palate where intense, yet smooth, citrus peel acidity and bite keep the off-dry levels of residual sugar in-check, leaving a dry, moderate finish. Ready to go now and to be paired with a hot Summer's day. Drink 2019-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Winemaker's Cut 2018 Sauvignon Blanc - 90pts

Winemaker's Cut 2018 Sauvignon Blanc (Oliver) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $26 + taxes
Alcohol: 12%
Production: 300 cases
Date Tasted: July 13th, 2019

Tasting Notes: The Winemaker's Cut Sauvignon Blanc, a single vineyard cuvée sourced from Oliver, explores textural layers on its crisp, mineraly and fruity palate and offers a subtle, delicate medley of citrus, tropical and orchard fruit aromas on the nose. Slightly dialed back from the extravagant 2017 edition, though, likely more accessible to the more casual fans of this pungent varietal. Ready to go now or hold for several years. Drink now-2023.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Stag's Hollow Winery 2018 Muscat Frizzante - 88pts

Stag's Hollow Winery 2018 Muscat Frizzante (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $22 + taxes
Alcohol: 11.1%
Date Tasted: July 11th, 2019

Tasting Notes: A focused, lightly bubbly, Prosecco-styled blend of 47% Orange Muscat, 46% Muscat Ottonel and 7% Riesling sourced from multiple Okanagan Falls vineyards. Opens with a subtle, delicate nose of peach, lemon/lime and grape aromas followed by an effervescent, well-balanced palate offering flavours of nectarine, peach, pear and a touch of minerality. Everything neat and tidy and quite refreshing. Ready to go now. Drink 2019-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery 2017 Merlot - 87pts

Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery 2017 Merlot - BC VQA

Availability: Direct from winery here 
Cost: $24.99 + taxes
Alcohol: 14.9%
Date Tasted: July 11th, 2019

Tasting Notes: Produced from fruit sourced from two sites in the Okanagan Valley and one in the Similkameen, this is a concentrated, ripe Merlot with both dark and red fruit characters and bright acidity. Missing smoothness mid-palate, jumping from the bold entry to the punchy, mouth-watering finish where notes of coffee grinds, toasted oak and a touch of spice linger. Pair with a dessert plate of dark chocolate or Brookside berries. Drink now-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca 

JoieFarm 2017 "En Famille" Reserve Chardonnay - 90-91pts

JoieFarm 2017 "En Famille" Reserve Chardonnay (Okanagan Valley) BC

Availability: Direct from the winery here
Cost: $30.35 + taxes
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 387 cases
Date Tasted: July 7th, 2019

Tasting Notes: A fully oaked (30% new, 15% 2nd fill and 55% neutral), melon and citrus fruit flavoured Chardonnay sourced from two central Okanagan vineyards that went through a spontaneous, secondary, or 'malolactic' fermentation during élevage, softening the naturally high level of acid and constructing a balanced wine with omnipresent, yet, subtle oak structure and complimentary buttered scone notes.

Length is a bit short, today, though should lengthen with more time in the cellar which will also allow the background, savoury notes time to blossom and integrate with the fruit. Come back in 2 years. Drink 2021-2024.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

JoieFarm 2018 Un-Oaked Chardonnay - 88pts

JoieFarm 2018 Un-Oaked Chardonnay (Okanagan Valley) BC

Availability: Sold out at the winery. Private wine shops 
Cost: $24-26 + taxes
Alcohol: 13.3%
Production: 438 cases, 21 kegs
Date Tasted: July 7th, 2019

Tasting Notes: Produced with fruit sourced from, predominantly, vineyards on the Skaha Bench with addition grapes coming from the Oliver Twist vineyard in Oliver. This un-oaked Chardonnay is both bright and weighted with a refreshing combination of citrus and tropical fruit on the lifted nose and the vibrant, medium-plus bodied palate. The finish is long and balanced with a touch of spice accompanying the lingering lemon/lime zest flavours. Ready to go now. Drink-2022.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Little Engine Wines 2017 Gold Merlot - 93-94pts

Little Engine Wines 2017 Gold Merlot (Naramata Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC 

Availability: See winery for details here
Cost: $55 + taxes
Alcohol: 14.8%
Date Tasted: July 2nd, 2019

Tasting Notes: Warning: an overuse of the word 'yet' follows (a fitting, yet, fatigued way to structure a sentence attempting to group contrasting, yet, related points). 

The Little Engine 'Gold Merlot' is an uber-elegant, yet, concentrated and perfectly ripe expression of the Bordeaux variety reminiscent of blending the styles of high-end Sonoma and Napa Valley Merlot. Full bodied, yet, effortless on the palate and approachable in its youth, yet, possessing the structure and 'bones' to age beautifully. Layers of delicate, sweet red fruit and savoury, baking notes grace the feminine nose and super refined, approachable palate. Enjoy now or hold for further development. Drink 2020-2025.

 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Kettle Valley Winery 2014 Great Northern Vineyard Syrah - 88pts

Kettle Valley Winery 2014 Great Northern Vineyard Syrah (Cawston) Similkameen Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and private stores
Cost: $21-25 + taxes
Alcohol: 13.6%
Date Tasted: July 5th, 2019

Tasting Notes:  A complex and masculine Syrah with layers of dark fruit, black pepper, sweet tar, black licorice and, in contrast, some elegant crushed violet and pipe tobacco notes. A touch 'green' on the medium-bodied palate with a hint of green pepper, though, the charred, mannered tannins have fully integrated leaving an overall sense of cohesion. Excellent value on offer for this Similkameen sourced Syrah. Ready to go now at 5 years of age. Drink 2019-2020.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Cassini Cellars 2017 Unoaked Chardonnay - 88pts

Cassini Cellars 2017 Unoaked Chardonnay (Golden Mile Bench) Okanagan Valley - BC 

Availability: Direct from winery here 
Cost: $20
Alcohol: 13.8%
Production: 778 cases
Date Tasted: July 4th, 2019

Tasting Notes: Though unoaked, this is a rich Chardonnay with, at least, partial malolactic fermentation, providing balance the naturally high acid level in the Burgundian grape and supporting the medley of orchard fruit on offer; apples, pears and peaches. Refreshingly crisp, but never harsh, with a touch of RS on the palate, this is an excellent Chardonnay to pair with Greek food like pork souvlaki with all the fixins'. Ready to go now. Drink 2019-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca 

Winemaker's Cut 2018 Rosé - 88pts

Winemaker's Cut 2018 Rosé (Oliver) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Look for release details here
Cost: $22 (including taxes)
Alcohol: 11.5%
Production: 220 cases
Date Tasted: July 6th, 2019

Tasting Notes: An elegant rosé, in every way; colour (pale watermelon), bouquet (subtle strawberry shortcake) and mouthfeel (layers of strawberry and fresh peach acidity). Finish is balanced, though, a tad short with just a flash of citrus peel and spice lingering. As with all good rosé, you can pair this with just about anything. Drink now-2021.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Fairview Cellars 2016 Mad Cap Red - 89+pts

Fairview Cellars 2016 Mad Cap Red (Okanagan Valley) BC

Availability: Sold out at the winery but available in private wine shops
Cost: $27.90 + taxes
Alcohol: 14.8% (est)
Date Tasted: July 4th, 2018

Tasting Notes: Fairview's Madcap Red is a blend of (roughly) 50% Merlot and (mostly) equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon from contracted vineyards in the Southern Okanagan Valley. Though an early drinking wine with approachable tannins, this blend will hold and evolve in your cellar, should you choose  to put one or two away. Older vintages make appearances in the Fairview tasting room as library releases and show well.

If you can't wait, today you'll uncork (or rather, crack open, as it's sealed with a Stelvin cap) a sensual, feminine wine with ripe'n'spicy blue fruits: plums, blueberries, blackberries and cassis. Aforementioned approachable tannins and blackberry acidity support the full bodied and nicely layered and concentrated palate where additional notes of toasted oak, anise, cardamom and mint add depth. Ready to go now or hold for another 3-4 years for further development. Drink 2019-2023.

 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars 2018 Pinot Gris - 88pts

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars 2018 Pinot Gris (Okanagan Falls) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and private wine shops
Cost: $24.90
Alcohol: 13%
Date Tasted: July 3rd, 2019

Tasting Notes: A Pinot Gris fermented with native yeast and one that touches a lot of oak (15% in stainless steel) but mostly older barrels and casks with only a kiss of new oak intermixed in the ever-evolving élevage program. The use of native yeast yields a more 'raw' wine, with plenty of texture and character, less composed refinement from foreign yeasts (less manipulation). 

Look for classic, stone and citrus fruit notes and rustic minerality throughout. Herbs and light spice show on the long, river stone flavoured finish. Drink now-2022.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery 2018 Pinot Gris - 86pts

Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery 2018 Pinot Gris - BC VQA

Availability: Direct from winery here 
Cost: $20 + taxes
Alcohol: 13.6%
Date Tasted: July 2nd, 2019

Tasting Notes: A pale, amber gold hue with pear and apple notes prominent on the mineral and lemon peel scented  nose, followed by a similar collection of flavours on the bright, mouth-watering palate. Slightly thin mid-palate where a touch of heat sneaks through the orchard fruit and the green apple and lemon-lime acidity. Spice shows on the lip-smacking finish.

A Gris for Summer and salads, or, in complete contrast, for a fireside snack of hard cheeses. Drink now-2021.

 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca

Quails' Gate Estate Winery 2018 Rosé - 87pts

Quails' Gate Estate Winery 2018 Rosé (West Kelowna) Okanagan Valley - BC

Availability: Direct from winery here and VQA stores
Cost: $17.99 + taxes
Alcohol: 13.5%
Production: 9600 cases
Date Tasted: June 30th, 2019

Tasting Notes: I have yet to find another BC rosé that delivers this much value with no element out-of-place as the Quails' Gate blush. A blend of 50% Gamay, 40% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Gris with characters of each variety on offer; candied fruit'n'spices from the Gamay, earthy red fruit from the Pinot Noir and fleshy, yet, mouth-watering texture from both the Pinot Gris and Noir. Finish is a tad short but forgivable at this price-point. Drink now-2020.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2019 IconWines.ca