Tonight we were at the stunning event space of Brix & Mortar, to explore some local Okanagan wines, all part of the Peller portfolio.
The theme of the evening was Roots & Resilience as we got to speak to the wine makers and learn first hand its journey from vineyard to glass. These were winemakers behind some of BC’s most coveted wineries: Gray Monk, Tinhorn Creek, Sandhill, Black Hills, and Red Rooster.
Every vintage tells a story, and tonight this was about resilience, creativity, and what’s possible when change is embraced. As per the press release, “The B.C. wine industry has faced immense challenges in the last two years, and this special evening celebrated what is possible when we stay true to the values that define us: quality, passion, and our deep connection to the land.”
The following are notes on the wines I tasted, although there were many more being poured.
I am not a fan of Gewurztraminer, so went with the Tinhorn Creek Pinot Gris 2024 with notes of citrus blossom, ripe peach, and honeydew melon on the nose. This is a medium-bodied wine on the palate with refreshing acidity and notes of lemon zest and tropical fruits.
The Sandhill Sauvignon Blanc Washington 2024 was clear and bright with a pale straw colour. This was a light-bodied Sauvignon Blanc with a refreshing mouth feel and flavours of tree fruits and a subtle minerality. It ends on tropical fruit notes of ripe peach and pineapple.
The only red was from Black Hills, the 2022 Nota Bene. A combination of an herbal Cabernet Sauvignon and a floral Cabernet Franc. The wine evolves in the glass, revealing bright red currant, sweet mint, and perfumed raspberry blossom.
The highlight of the evening was being able to sample the collections and from them pick out our favourite to have personalize through engraving, with our choice of two words. Without there being a red option, I gravitated towards my favourite white a Pinot Gris. With there being three varieties available, I ultimately choose Gray Monk.
A medium-bodied Pinot Gris with a smooth texture, refreshing acidity and a touch of richness. This is an off-dry style white, with an explosion of orchard fruit flavours and a hint of spice and minerality that linger on the finish.
I also liked the Gray Monk Rosé, light pink in colour with fresh aromas of strawberry, cranberry, and melon. This is a light-bodied, refreshing wine with perfectly balanced acidity. Flavours of red berries, red currant, and hints of grapefruit excite the palate and linger on the finish.
In short, what a wonderful and casual way to learn more about and enjoy local wines.
