Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon is a fantastic wine that doesn’t cost a fortune, making it a great pick for anyone who loves a good glass of red.

With you first smell, you’ll notice a rich, fruity aromas like blackberries and plums, along with a touch of vanilla and spice. As you take a sip, those fruity flavors come through, balanced nicely with smooth tannins, giving it a really pleasant finish.

What’s really great about this wine is how easy it is to drink. It goes well with all sorts of foods, from steak to pasta, making it perfect for any meal or gathering.

Whether you’re a wine expert or just enjoy a good glass now and then, you’ll find Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon to be a reliable and enjoyable choice.For the price, this wine offers a lot. It’s got the kind of quality and taste that you might expect from a more expensive bottle, making it a smart buy if you want to enjoy something special without spending too much.

7/10

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Phantom Creek’s Kobau Vineyard Syrah is a fantastic wine.

It’s expressive, well-made, and presents as a high end red.

Right away, you get juicy blackberries, plums, and cherries, mixed with a bit of black pepper, flowers, and smoky meat. There’s also some chocolate and spice from the barrel aging, but it doesn’t take over.

It’s big and rich in your mouth but not heavy, thanks to bright acidity that keeps it fresh. You taste dark fruit, black licorice, and spice, with smooth, grippy tannins that linger nicely on the finish.

It’s super balanced, not too sweet or harsh, with lots of flavors that change as it sits and breathes. The mouthfeel is smooth with a long aftertaste.

It’s a tad young right now, so it could get even better with a few years of cellaring.

If you like bold reds that are easy to enjoy but still impressive, grab this one.

Solid 9/10

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Gray Monk Meritage 2023 is a really enjoyable red from the Okanagan that’s easy to like and even easier to drink.

The first thing you’ll notice is the rich, fruity smell—think black cherry and plum, with a little hint of vanilla and sweet spices wafting through.

When you take a sip, it’s smooth and balanced, delivering juicy dark fruit flavors but not too heavy. The tannins are soft, so you don’t get any harshness—just an easygoing mouthful that finishes with subtle layers of spice and a touch of black tea.

This is a wine you could easily bring to a gathering or open on a quiet night; it feels pretty versatile.

At around $35 a bottle, it’s a great way to have one of he better, local red wines from BC without breaking the bank.

Score: 8/10—super reliable, friendly, and tasty.

I would definitely this one again.

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This morning we are touring the Naramata bench in search of some of the Okanagan’s finest vintages.

Deep Roots is our second stop of the day. Last year we were all blown away by the 2021 Merlot. For $30 I thought it was one of the best value bottles of wine I’ve ever had in the 27 years I’ve been coming to the Okanagan for wine. We enjoyed it so much we actually sat on the patio here for a couple hours and drank a couple bottles between the five of us.

Unfortunately this year I didn’t find the Merlot, or any other bottle here worth buying. Don’t get me wrong, they weren’t bad. I just look for something that really speaks to me and I didn’t find that this trip.

What I did find however was this barbecue trailer.

Yes I know it’s only 11:00 a.m.. Yes I know I only finished breakfast an hour ago. But it’s barbecue. I can’t pass that up.

So I’ll just get a slider, just to tide me over till lunch.

Man that’s some good brisket. Douse some sauce all over that and I’ve got some barbecue here that as good as I’ve had anywhere.

It’s a 14-hour brisket, moist and tender accompanied with some amazing slaw and a nice fresh bun.

Did we end up taking a wrong turn to Houston somewhere? Could swear we are in Texas.

Too bad we just ate. I could use more of that brisket.

Hopefully they are here next year.

10/10 for the BBQ.

5/10 for this year’s wines.

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We have been here once before and thought it was pretty good.

Dinner tonight includes 2 and a half courses for $70 each. On the menu are three appetizers, three mains and one dessert.

Only one dessert? Seems a bit lazy to me. At least it’s something I like.

To get it started tonight Merilynn had a gin based cocktail. Frankly I don’t recall the name and it wasn’t really anything worth remembering. It was fine though.

I kicked things off with a personalized wine flight.

The Phantom Creek Cabernet Franc from BC was very good. I’ve had this wine a couple times and it’s excellent. Vanilla and cherry on the palate.

I also had a Penley Estates Cabernet Sauvignon. Australia does those big Reds really well. Dark berries and subtle flavours of herbs.

The most interesting of the three though was the Marachel Foch from Quails Gate. BC as well.

This is an old vines grape from BC that predates the great pull out of 1988 when the BC wine industry tried to turn their reputation around, successfully I might add.

If you’ve ever had a crummy to mediocre red wine from BC way back in the day this’ll bring back memories.

Interesting to try, but it doesn’t live up to modern day grape varietals.

We chose the garlic shrimp and beef tartare for our appetizers.

These were great, well seasoned and garlicky. But the 80s called and wants it’s garnish back. Ease off on the parsley guys.

The beef tartare was very tasty, though a bigger portion than you need I feel.

The mustard and Parmesan complemented the beef very well.

That’s the second plate I’ve had Focaccia on by the way.

As far as Focaccia bread goes this was all right. Personally I prefer a higher hydration version of this Italian staple. But in a restaurant I get it. This takes a lot less time.

With the beef tartar it came toasted, costini like, which you could use to eat the tartare with. Honestly though I didn’t really need a second helping of it.

For my main I had the Hake.

This was the winner tonight.

If you aren’t familiar with this fish it’s in the same family as cod and haddock. I prefer haddock over cod as it’s less fishy but this was a nice compromise in between the two. Flakier and not quite as fishy tasting. The white wine reduction was beautiful. And the vegetables, zucchini, beans and peppers made a well-rounded complete dish.

Marilyn went with the rack of lamb.

While it looks good it did not live up to the appearance.

While it was cooked very well it was very chewy. Which of course just takes away from the enjoyment of what should be a very good dish. It was lacking in flavour as well.

The mashed potatoes were nice though. Not Joel Robuchon nice, but still very good.

Three bites and we sent it back

Now on to the finale, the chocolate cake.

It was moist and delicious. I should have asked if it was made in house though. I’d be surprised if it was.

Whoever did make it did a very good job in my professional opinion.

As we wrap up the meal tonight we cannot be but disappointed. While the appetizers and the Hake were very good, the lamb was such a let down it spoiled what otherwise would have been a very nice meal.

But though we will look at the positives I’m not sure we will be visiting again any time soon.

6/10

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Beringer Main & Vine Cabernet Sauvignon is a budget-friendly option that offers a straightforward introduction to this classic varietal. The wine has a medium-bodied profile, making it approachable for casual drinkers or those new to red wines.

Tasting Notes:

On the nose, there are hints of dark fruit such as black cherry and plum, accompanied by subtle notes of vanilla and oak. On the palate, the fruit flavors are present but somewhat muted, and the wine lacks the depth and complexity often associated with higher-end Cabernets. The tannins are soft, offering an easy-drinking experience, though this simplicity may leave more seasoned wine enthusiasts wanting more.

Pairing Suggestions:

This wine pairs well with simple dishes like grilled burgers, pasta with red sauce, or even a casual pizza night. Its approachable flavor profile also makes it a good choice for gatherings where wine knowledge may vary among guests.

Final Thoughts:

While Beringer Main & Vine Cabernet Sauvignon is far from a standout, it delivers decent value for its price point. It’s a reliable, everyday wine but doesn’t offer much to excite the palate. A solid choice for casual sipping but unlikely to impress those looking for a bold or complex Cabernet experience.

Would you like recommendations for alternatives at a similar price range?

5/10

8th St Liquor $24

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Castillo de Mureva Organic Tempranillo is a budget-friendly wine with an emphasis on sustainability, but it falls short in terms of complexity and depth. While it’s drinkable and suitable for casual occasions, it doesn’t quite deliver the richness one might expect from a Tempranillo.

On the nose, there are simple aromas of red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of earthiness. While pleasant, the bouquet lacks intensity and fails to fully capture the complexity of the varietal.

The palate is light-bodied and straightforward, with flavors of red fruit and a touch of spice. However, the wine feels thin and lacks balance, with the acidity overpowering the softer fruit notes. The tannins are mild but slightly grainy, which detracts from the overall smoothness.

The finish is short and unremarkable, leaving little impression. While it can work as an everyday table wine or for those new to red wines, it doesn’t stand out in terms of quality or flavor.

Overall, Castillo de Mureva Organic Tempranillo is an average wine that gets points for being organic and affordable, but it doesn’t offer much beyond that.

Rating: 5/10

Best for: Budget-friendly gatherings, casual drinking, or pairing with light snacks.

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Montes Alpha Carmenere 2019 is a standout wine that beautifully showcases the depth and character of Chile’s renowned wine regions.

The deep, rich ruby color is captivating, and the bouquet offers enticing aromas of dark fruit like blackberry and plum, intertwined with hints of spice, tobacco, and subtle herbal notes.

On the palate, this wine delivers an exceptional balance of smooth tannins and vibrant acidity, with flavors of ripe red fruit, black pepper, and a touch of oak. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and complexity.

This Carmenere is a perfect choice for those seeking a full-bodied yet approachable red wine that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, stews, or rich cheeses.

The 2019 vintage from Montes Alpha is a true testament to the winery’s commitment to quality, offering both excellent value and a memorable drinking experience.

$32 at West Coast liquor.

8/10

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Fairview Cellars’ The Bear is a truly exceptional red wine that delivers a masterful blend of depth, complexity, and elegance. From the first pour, the wine’s deep ruby hue hints at the richness to come. The bouquet is inviting, with aromas of ripe blackberries, cassis, and dark cherries, complemented by subtle notes of cedar, tobacco, and a hint of vanilla from the oak aging.

On the palate, The Bear is beautifully structured, showcasing silky tannins and a harmonious balance between fruit and acidity. Layers of dark fruit flavors, such as plum and blackcurrant, are interwoven with earthy undertones and a touch of spice, creating a dynamic and memorable tasting experience. The finish is long, smooth, and satisfying, leaving you eager for the next sip.

This wine is a testament to the skill and passion of Fairview Cellars, reflecting the terroir of British Columbia’s Okanagan region. It’s a versatile red that pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes like roast lamb, grilled steak, or a rich mushroom risotto, but it’s equally enjoyable on its own for a special occasion or quiet evening.

Fairview Cellars’ The Bear is a must-try for wine enthusiasts seeking a full-bodied, sophisticated red that stands out.

Everything Wine $51.98

8/10

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El Tocador wine is an exceptional find that offers a true expression of its origin.

This beautifully crafted wine presents a harmonious blend of bold flavors and smooth textures, making each sip a delightful experience.

With rich aromas of dark fruit, subtle floral notes, and a touch of spice, El Tocador impresses with its complexity and depth. The well-structured tannins and balanced acidity make it versatile, pairing wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to aged cheeses.

Whether enjoyed on its own or with food, El Tocador is a fantastic choice for any wine lover looking for quality and refinement in every glass.

Recommended

7/10

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