What’s in our glasses? We enjoyed some fine wine lately, and subsequently posted about these great bottles on social media. However, in case you missed our posts, you can catch up here. In addition, we would love it if you would follow Write for Wine on Instagram and Facebook.
Read on to find out what’s been in our glasses!
We are passionate about South Africa wines. For example, in the last few weeks, we discovered five remarkable bottles from MAN Family, Stark-Condé, Lievland and Boekenhoutskloof. All four are well-known South African producers. Three lovely Chenin Blancs paired nicely with our patio on these dwindling warm evenings. Meanwhile, two rich Cabernet Sauvignons graced our dinner table. Read on for details.
We’ve been fans of Blue Grouse wines for years, and frequently cross the nearby border to buy bottles. However, in July, for the first time, we visited their classy estate winery. Blue Grouse is an acclaimed Cowichan Valley producer, with one of the oldest vineyards on Vancouver Island. Blue Grouse Estate Winery’s philosophy is “stewardship.” Their vineyards are all sustainably farmed. During our visit, our charming, knowledgeable host Vanessa Wheaton poured five wines for us – three whites, a sparkling rosé and one red. These are just a small sample of many standout Blue Grouse wines.
In mid-August, we spent an entertaining and educational hour with Michelle Schulze at Venturi-Schulze Vineyards in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island. Michelle is such a character, and as authentic as it gets. She shared lots of fun stories and good wine with us. Michelle manages the vineyards and works closely with her step-father, Giordano Venturi, to make the wine. Her mother Marilyn is hands-on, a scientist excelling in vinegar production. Venturi-Schulze was the third licensed winery on Vancouver Island in 1993. As well as 100% estate-grown wines, you’ll find ancient-method balsamic vinegar and jams. Moreover, the late, great Ron Zimmerman of well-known The Herbfarm imports Venturi-Schulze wines and vinegars for his restaurant near Seattle. And Venturi-Schulze Zeigelt is very popular with Victoria’s Hanks *a restaurant.