Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel has long been a go-to for many Zin lovers, and the current vintage is more than fine. Bold, luscious, and abounding with flavours of plum, black cherry, and blackberry, this smooth and velvety Ravenswood is surprisingly elegant. A California classic, it would be good with everything from savoury barbecue to bacon burgers or cassoulet. Although the $30 price tag is maybe a bit steep, every couple of months this goes on sale at $6 off. And that’s a bargain.
If you don’t mind that Chile’s Estrella de Pascua Sauvignon Blanc could almost be mistaken for a Pinot Gris, you’ll doubtless find this to be an appealing patio sipper. Crisp and refreshing, with a palate-pleasing combination of tropical and orchard fruits enlivened with a spritz of lemon and grapefruit, this well-balanced and versatile wine goes with a variety of foods, from chicken and salads to most seafood. At $15, it’s yet another good-value Chilean wine – maybe buy an armful.
Based near Oliver, the Okanagan branch of Jackson-Triggs has a large portfolio of wines, many of which win awards. Their oak-aged Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($20) is full-bodied, earthy, and quite dry. The velvety palate yields black fruit flavours, especially plum and black cherry, alongside coffee notes and a hint of spiciness. Smooth and a bit complex, this would be a fine companion for rib-eye steaks or lamb shoulder chops (and went very well with our savoury pork ribs). Best if decanted.
Many Pinot Noirs from California have an easy-going, fruit-forward style that makes them very quaffable. That is certainly the case with the Robert Mondavi Private Selection, a supple, ruby-coloured crowd-pleaser with oodles of flavour. Dominated by notes of cherry and raspberry, it’s a well-balanced and food-friendly wine that goes with everything from roast chicken to seafood. Light and bright, this medium-bodied Pinot has a silky mouthfeel that glides into a long finish. It’s good value at $23. (All prices include tax.)
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