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May 11, 2012
Everything is coming up Rosés - a peek at local pinks
by Treve Ring
8th Generation Vineyard Confidence 2011, Summerland. $22.50. 12.5%, Dunkelfelder, Pinot Gris, Syrah. I adore this mid-sweet frizzante wine on the inside and out. Pink grapefruit, candied strawberries, lively bubbles and as refreshing (and fun!) as a summer run through a sprinkler...
Everything is coming up Rosés - a peek at local pinks
by Treve Ring
8th Generation Vineyard Confidence 2011, Summerland. $22.50. 12.5%, Dunkelfelder, Pinot Gris, Syrah. I adore this mid-sweet frizzante wine on the inside and out. Pink grapefruit, candied strawberries, lively bubbles and as refreshing (and fun!) as a summer run through a sprinkler...
April 10, 2012
You can't beat Riesling when it comes to versatility
By Jurgen Gothe
Broken-record time again. (Are there still records? Do they still "break", i.e., get stuck in the same groove and repeat over and over? Or is that one more figure of speech we should jettison in these digital times? Just asking.)...
You can't beat Riesling when it comes to versatility
By Jurgen Gothe
Broken-record time again. (Are there still records? Do they still "break", i.e., get stuck in the same groove and repeat over and over? Or is that one more figure of speech we should jettison in these digital times? Just asking.)...
March 2012
Named "Winery to watch" by the North West Magazine
By Eric Degermann
Named "Winery to watch" by the North West Magazine
By Eric Degermann
February 29, 2012
The Proposal - Osoyoos Celebrity Wine Festival 2011
The Proposal - Osoyoos Celebrity Wine Festival 2011
October 5, 2011
Pretty in Pink: A Rosé by Any Other Name
By David Bradley Kamm
There's one more wild card to add to this mix: 8thGeneration Vineyard Pinot Meunier Rosé. This beautiful bottle of wine is a tribute to my Canadian friends and Canadian winemaking...
Pretty in Pink: A Rosé by Any Other Name
By David Bradley Kamm
There's one more wild card to add to this mix: 8thGeneration Vineyard Pinot Meunier Rosé. This beautiful bottle of wine is a tribute to my Canadian friends and Canadian winemaking...
September 7, 2011
Georgia Straight - uncorked
8th Generation Pinot Gris 2010 ($19.99)
This will be another one that sells out fast; at 226 cases in total, who's surprised? It's full and wet (as opposed to dry), polished, lychee-hinting, hearty, and rich. Don't put the cream sauces away just yet; try this with spaghetti carbonara or chicken Diablo. It would also pair well with French fries, German fried and pickled herring, or oysters Rocky-or whatever you feel like. It'll handle it all. Put your name on the list for next year's.
Georgia Straight - uncorked
8th Generation Pinot Gris 2010 ($19.99)
This will be another one that sells out fast; at 226 cases in total, who's surprised? It's full and wet (as opposed to dry), polished, lychee-hinting, hearty, and rich. Don't put the cream sauces away just yet; try this with spaghetti carbonara or chicken Diablo. It would also pair well with French fries, German fried and pickled herring, or oysters Rocky-or whatever you feel like. It'll handle it all. Put your name on the list for next year's.
August 9, 2011
Refreshing, light white wines for Sunday brunch
By Jurgen Gothe
Here's the second part of our weekend wine omnibus. We had the barbecue reds (and a few rosés) last week; these are the refreshing, light whites for Sunday brunch.
Refreshing, light white wines for Sunday brunch
By Jurgen Gothe
Here's the second part of our weekend wine omnibus. We had the barbecue reds (and a few rosés) last week; these are the refreshing, light whites for Sunday brunch.
July 20, 2011
More Rieslings to love, and some lessons, too
By Jurgen Gothe
... Certainly, the team of winemaker Bernd and grower Stefanie Schales could navigate this grape with their eyes closed if they wanted to, and create grand wines...
More Rieslings to love, and some lessons, too
By Jurgen Gothe
... Certainly, the team of winemaker Bernd and grower Stefanie Schales could navigate this grape with their eyes closed if they wanted to, and create grand wines...
July 18, 2011
Wine Aficionado - 8th Generation: Confidence 2010
by Alisha, Granville Island Gazette
Wondering if Summer will ever arrive in Vancouver? Well perhaps the solution to our rainy blues is a trip to the hot, sunny Okanagan...
Wine Aficionado - 8th Generation: Confidence 2010
by Alisha, Granville Island Gazette
Wondering if Summer will ever arrive in Vancouver? Well perhaps the solution to our rainy blues is a trip to the hot, sunny Okanagan...
June 03, 2011
8th Generation Vineyard champions frizzanté
By John Schreiner
One of the trendy wine styles in recent years has been Prosecco, the refreshing sparkling wine from northern Italy, popular on its own and also as a cocktail ingredient...
8th Generation Vineyard champions frizzanté
By John Schreiner
One of the trendy wine styles in recent years has been Prosecco, the refreshing sparkling wine from northern Italy, popular on its own and also as a cocktail ingredient...
June 03, 2011
Awards 2011
We are pleased and very happy that our wines made the following medals at these prestigious competitions:
All Canadian Wine Championship 2011
GOLD Pinot Gris 2010
GOLD Pinot Meunier Rosé 2010
North West Wine Summit 2011
GOLD Pinot Gris 2010
GOLD Riesling 2010
GOLD Confidence Frizzante 2010
SILVER Pinot Meunier Rosé 2010
Awards 2011
We are pleased and very happy that our wines made the following medals at these prestigious competitions:
All Canadian Wine Championship 2011
GOLD Pinot Gris 2010
GOLD Pinot Meunier Rosé 2010
North West Wine Summit 2011
GOLD Pinot Gris 2010
GOLD Riesling 2010
GOLD Confidence Frizzante 2010
SILVER Pinot Meunier Rosé 2010
May 25, 2011
Release Integrity 2010
Notes of pear and green apple combined with soft citrus on the nose. The palate explodes with honey, pineapple and more exotic fruit. All play together with tiny bubbles and a never ending finish. Also great for Bellini or Hugo cocktail.
As everyone is asking, here is the HUGO Cocktail recipe:
A tablespoon or two of elderflower syrup, 3 mint leaves, rubbed to release the oils to taste. Pour the syrup into the glass drop the mint in and top it up withIntegrity Frizzante wine. Optional—only if it is to early in the day or really hot outside—add some Sparkling water and a squeeze of lime juice
Release Integrity 2010
Notes of pear and green apple combined with soft citrus on the nose. The palate explodes with honey, pineapple and more exotic fruit. All play together with tiny bubbles and a never ending finish. Also great for Bellini or Hugo cocktail.
As everyone is asking, here is the HUGO Cocktail recipe:
A tablespoon or two of elderflower syrup, 3 mint leaves, rubbed to release the oils to taste. Pour the syrup into the glass drop the mint in and top it up with
February 1, 2011
Revisiting the best sparkling wines of 2010
By Jurgen Gothe
It was the talk of the B.C. Wine Awards last October, even though it wasn't entered in the competition. It's surprising there's still some left for sale, at the winery, anyway. Chardonnay with a spritz - what a nice notion!
8th Generation Frizzante Chardonnay 2009 ($19.99)
Revisiting the best sparkling wines of 2010
By Jurgen Gothe
It was the talk of the B.C. Wine Awards last October, even though it wasn't entered in the competition. It's surprising there's still some left for sale, at the winery, anyway. Chardonnay with a spritz - what a nice notion!
8th Generation Frizzante Chardonnay 2009 ($19.99)
January 08, 2011
The Best and Worst of 2010
By Anthony Gismondi
A best BC moment has been the quiet but steady growth of new names pushing the boundaries and starting to make interesting, terroir-based wines in the Okanagan. Twisted Tree, Cassini, Tantalus, Painted Rock, 8th Generation, Arrowleaf, Poplar Grove, Road 13, Stag's Hollow, Stoneboat and Van Westen are all coming into their own. High prices, given the depth of foreign competition, are the only dark cloud on the horizon.
The Best and Worst of 2010
By Anthony Gismondi
A best BC moment has been the quiet but steady growth of new names pushing the boundaries and starting to make interesting, terroir-based wines in the Okanagan. Twisted Tree, Cassini, Tantalus, Painted Rock, 8th Generation, Arrowleaf, Poplar Grove, Road 13, Stag's Hollow, Stoneboat and Van Westen are all coming into their own. High prices, given the depth of foreign competition, are the only dark cloud on the horizon.
December 14, 2010
A roundup of the year's best domestic reds
By Jurgen Gothe
If any further proof were needed that people who claim B.C. can't produce any fine red wines simply don't know anything about wine, the 30th annual B.C. Wine Awards laid that one to rest. And so say all of us. Sixteen of the gold medals awarded went to reds, and 50 of the silvers. I can't recall how many bronzes; I stopped counting.
So here's a roundup of Best of the Year domestic reds-they've been kept on file since the start of the year. Five aren't included below since they have long been sold out: 8th Generation Pinot Noir, La Frenz Shiraz, La Frenz Reserve Pinot Noir, Orofino Petit Verdot, and Twisted Tree Tempranillo. All were 2008 vintages.
A roundup of the year's best domestic reds
By Jurgen Gothe
If any further proof were needed that people who claim B.C. can't produce any fine red wines simply don't know anything about wine, the 30th annual B.C. Wine Awards laid that one to rest. And so say all of us. Sixteen of the gold medals awarded went to reds, and 50 of the silvers. I can't recall how many bronzes; I stopped counting.
So here's a roundup of Best of the Year domestic reds-they've been kept on file since the start of the year. Five aren't included below since they have long been sold out: 8th Generation Pinot Noir, La Frenz Shiraz, La Frenz Reserve Pinot Noir, Orofino Petit Verdot, and Twisted Tree Tempranillo. All were 2008 vintages.
November 22, 2010
'Tis the season for affordable sparkling wines
By Jurgen Gothe
8th Generation Frizzante Chardonnay 2009 ($19.99)
You'll definitely have to hunt for this one. The Summerland winery didn't make very much, and while it wasn't entered in the competition it was the talk of the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival. So a jaunt to the winery is in order, although a few private wine stores around town do carry it. Well worth the hunt: being all-Chardonnay it isn't as dry as many sparklers, with big, full fruit, and a fresh and crisp finish. All-around excellent stuff. For appies, hors d'oeuvres, finger food, et cetera.
'Tis the season for affordable sparkling wines
By Jurgen Gothe
8th Generation Frizzante Chardonnay 2009 ($19.99)
You'll definitely have to hunt for this one. The Summerland winery didn't make very much, and while it wasn't entered in the competition it was the talk of the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival. So a jaunt to the winery is in order, although a few private wine stores around town do carry it. Well worth the hunt: being all-Chardonnay it isn't as dry as many sparklers, with big, full fruit, and a fresh and crisp finish. All-around excellent stuff. For appies, hors d'oeuvres, finger food, et cetera.
October 25, 2010
Riesling rules!
By Jurgen Gothe
Riesling rules! Still and always, at least in my tasting book. And judging from the clutch of medals this favourite white wine received at the B.C. Wine Awards-five gold, four silver, and eight bronze, plus a best white wine of the year award-it resonates righteously with a lot of other palates...
8th Generation Classic Riesling 2008 ($19.90)
About 500 cases of this came off their 23-year-old vines to make this perfectly sweet-balanced wine. Very good on all levels-fruit, finish, balance. I can't think of anything you wouldn't want to serve this with-yes, even a juicy burger and fries or a couple of lamb chops. With fresh mint sauce and gnocchi.
Riesling rules!
By Jurgen Gothe
Riesling rules! Still and always, at least in my tasting book. And judging from the clutch of medals this favourite white wine received at the B.C. Wine Awards-five gold, four silver, and eight bronze, plus a best white wine of the year award-it resonates righteously with a lot of other palates...
8th Generation Classic Riesling 2008 ($19.90)
About 500 cases of this came off their 23-year-old vines to make this perfectly sweet-balanced wine. Very good on all levels-fruit, finish, balance. I can't think of anything you wouldn't want to serve this with-yes, even a juicy burger and fries or a couple of lamb chops. With fresh mint sauce and gnocchi.
October 22, 2010
8th Generation Vineyard Chardonnay Sparkling 2009 VQA
By Treve Ring, Eat Magazine
The buzz about this family winery isn't just about their labels (though they are highly striking). And I don't use the term 'family' lightly - Bernd Schales is an 8th generation winemaker and his wife, Stefanie is a 10th generation winegrower.
8th Generation Vineyard Chardonnay Sparkling 2009 VQA
By Treve Ring, Eat Magazine
The buzz about this family winery isn't just about their labels (though they are highly striking). And I don't use the term 'family' lightly - Bernd Schales is an 8th generation winemaker and his wife, Stefanie is a 10th generation winegrower.
September 16, 2010
New Release
CHARDONNAY FRIZZANTE style
Here it is! The all talked about & so long waited for: You can easily call it BC's "PROSECCO". This bubbly is definitely the best start for brunch, dinner and everything in between. No oak, all pure fruit with a remarkable peach bouquet and a fresh & creamy mouth-feel.
New Release
CHARDONNAY FRIZZANTE style
Here it is! The all talked about & so long waited for: You can easily call it BC's "PROSECCO". This bubbly is definitely the best start for brunch, dinner and everything in between. No oak, all pure fruit with a remarkable peach bouquet and a fresh & creamy mouth-feel.
September 09, 2010
www.telegraph.co.uk
Canada: Okanagan Valley wine tour
By Kathy Arnold
... Wine lore has it that the best wine should be served last. Certainly, the best wine that we taste, along with our best meal, is on our last evening. At the Victoria Rd Bistro in Summerland, Roger Gillespie, the chef/owner, serves up 100 per cent Okanagan menus, with his own heirloom tomatoes for salad and his own pears for the pear crème brûlée. He even smokes his own duck. We are attending a winemaker's dinner, a regular feature of the harvest season. The paired wines are from the 8th Generation Vineyard. Bernd Schales has been in the Okanagan for only seven years, but his family's winemaking tradition in Germany dates back to 1783. He and his wife, Stefanie, have made an impact with their well-balanced rieslings as well as their chardonnays, pinot noirs and merlots, all complex and full of character. "Back home, friends don't believe that wine is grown in Canada," says Stefanie, whose viticulture credentials stretch back 10 generations. "When they visit, they are impressed by how healthy the grapes are here."
www.telegraph.co.uk
Canada: Okanagan Valley wine tour
By Kathy Arnold
... Wine lore has it that the best wine should be served last. Certainly, the best wine that we taste, along with our best meal, is on our last evening. At the Victoria Rd Bistro in Summerland, Roger Gillespie, the chef/owner, serves up 100 per cent Okanagan menus, with his own heirloom tomatoes for salad and his own pears for the pear crème brûlée. He even smokes his own duck. We are attending a winemaker's dinner, a regular feature of the harvest season. The paired wines are from the 8th Generation Vineyard. Bernd Schales has been in the Okanagan for only seven years, but his family's winemaking tradition in Germany dates back to 1783. He and his wife, Stefanie, have made an impact with their well-balanced rieslings as well as their chardonnays, pinot noirs and merlots, all complex and full of character. "Back home, friends don't believe that wine is grown in Canada," says Stefanie, whose viticulture credentials stretch back 10 generations. "When they visit, they are impressed by how healthy the grapes are here."
July 20, 2010
www.gismondionwine.com
90/100 - 8th Generation Vineyard Riesling 2008
Lovely zesty white fruit aromas with mineral, peach and apricot notes. The palate is lively and elegant and still quite youthful with red apple, lime, mineral, nectarine flavours that finish long. Amazing wines that speak to the 8 generations of knowledge gathered by this family.
Tasted: 2010-07-20 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $20.00 (750 ml) winery direct
CSPC: 328013 / UPC: 62699002070
Distributor: Peacock and Martin Wine Merchants / Quaff Wine and Spirits
91/100 8th Generation Vineyard Vineyard Riesling Classic 2009
Made from 20-plus year old vines, this classic style riesling has 9 per cent residual sugar but you barley detect it with the acidity so bright and fresh. Crisp crunchy citrus fruit with a dash of red apples this is a wine with endless food possibilities. A B.C. riesling for grownups. Well done.
Tasted: 2010-07-20 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $20.09 (750 ml) winery direct
UPC: 626990102069
Distributor: Peacock and Martin Wine Merchants / Quaff Wine and Spirits
www.gismondionwine.com
90/100 - 8th Generation Vineyard Riesling 2008
Lovely zesty white fruit aromas with mineral, peach and apricot notes. The palate is lively and elegant and still quite youthful with red apple, lime, mineral, nectarine flavours that finish long. Amazing wines that speak to the 8 generations of knowledge gathered by this family.
Tasted: 2010-07-20 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $20.00 (750 ml) winery direct
CSPC: 328013 / UPC: 62699002070
Distributor: Peacock and Martin Wine Merchants / Quaff Wine and Spirits
91/100 8th Generation Vineyard Vineyard Riesling Classic 2009
Made from 20-plus year old vines, this classic style riesling has 9 per cent residual sugar but you barley detect it with the acidity so bright and fresh. Crisp crunchy citrus fruit with a dash of red apples this is a wine with endless food possibilities. A B.C. riesling for grownups. Well done.
Tasted: 2010-07-20 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $20.09 (750 ml) winery direct
UPC: 626990102069
Distributor: Peacock and Martin Wine Merchants / Quaff Wine and Spirits
July 07, 2010
Think perfectly-pink wines for picnics and patios
By Jurgen Gothe
More barbecue fare-pink this time, as we roll out recent rosés in a big ice-full cooler. Pink wines are the perfect picnic wines, sun-deck wines, summer gulping wines. Rosés of all types, grapes, and prices are flooding our market now, as more and more people discover-or rediscover-the pleasures of fresh and easy sipping wines...
8th Generation Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009 ($18.90)
The little Champagne grape gets a good workout; after barely 24 hours' skin contact, it emerges fresh and robust, stylish and well-rounded, with terrific icy fruit in front and a lip-smacking, pleasantly dry finish. Fine for food, but nice to sip solo too.
Think perfectly-pink wines for picnics and patios
By Jurgen Gothe
More barbecue fare-pink this time, as we roll out recent rosés in a big ice-full cooler. Pink wines are the perfect picnic wines, sun-deck wines, summer gulping wines. Rosés of all types, grapes, and prices are flooding our market now, as more and more people discover-or rediscover-the pleasures of fresh and easy sipping wines...
8th Generation Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009 ($18.90)
The little Champagne grape gets a good workout; after barely 24 hours' skin contact, it emerges fresh and robust, stylish and well-rounded, with terrific icy fruit in front and a lip-smacking, pleasantly dry finish. Fine for food, but nice to sip solo too.
June 30, 2010
Wine Talk The Blog - TOP 5: Big BC Red Wines
Here is a list of my picks for TOP BC Red Wines as of this date. This in an overall list and each wine was not only put into perspective of their overall quality but also in terms of the value they offer in respect of other BC and international wines.
#1 8th Generation 2008 Merlot - Tom in our Duncan store brought this to my attention and I am forever grateful...
Wine Talk The Blog - TOP 5: Big BC Red Wines
Here is a list of my picks for TOP BC Red Wines as of this date. This in an overall list and each wine was not only put into perspective of their overall quality but also in terms of the value they offer in respect of other BC and international wines.
#1 8th Generation 2008 Merlot - Tom in our Duncan store brought this to my attention and I am forever grateful...
June 19, 2010
The Vancouver Sun - 25 fabulous summer sippers to savour
By Anthony Gismondi
Summer's imminent arrival has spurred us to select a list of 25 amazing B.C. white wines made for warm days and long nights on the patio. There are many reasons to buy B.C. wines, not the least of which is they are produced locally. They also have an amazing ability to pair with West Coast cuisine...
The Vancouver Sun - 25 fabulous summer sippers to savour
By Anthony Gismondi
Summer's imminent arrival has spurred us to select a list of 25 amazing B.C. white wines made for warm days and long nights on the patio. There are many reasons to buy B.C. wines, not the least of which is they are produced locally. They also have an amazing ability to pair with West Coast cuisine...
June 10, 2010
www.gismondionwine.com
88/100 - 8th Generation Vineyard Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009
Another well-made delicious wine from 8th Generation. Love the bright citrus fruit character and the light red berry fruit you get on the nose and palate with just a dash of sweetness in the finish. So fresh and bright so appealing this is a terrific bottle of rosé.
Tasted: 2010-06-10 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $19.09 (750 ml) winery direct
UPC: 6269900102045
Distributor: Quaff Wine and Spirits
89/100 8th Generation Vineyard Riesling 2009
Light lees and mineral nose with apricot, citrus and honey aromas. The entry is bright and fresh with zesty acidity and just the right mix of sweet limey mango fruit. Impressive styling and fun to drink. Bravo. Try it with pork or spicy Asian dishes.
Tasted: 2010-06-06 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $20.09 (750 ml) winery direct
CSPC: 328013 / UPC: 626990070849
Distributor: Quaff Wine and Spirits
www.gismondionwine.com
88/100 - 8th Generation Vineyard Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009
Another well-made delicious wine from 8th Generation. Love the bright citrus fruit character and the light red berry fruit you get on the nose and palate with just a dash of sweetness in the finish. So fresh and bright so appealing this is a terrific bottle of rosé.
Tasted: 2010-06-10 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $19.09 (750 ml) winery direct
UPC: 6269900102045
Distributor: Quaff Wine and Spirits
89/100 8th Generation Vineyard Riesling 2009
Light lees and mineral nose with apricot, citrus and honey aromas. The entry is bright and fresh with zesty acidity and just the right mix of sweet limey mango fruit. Impressive styling and fun to drink. Bravo. Try it with pork or spicy Asian dishes.
Tasted: 2010-06-06 by AG-ST
Prices: BC $20.09 (750 ml) winery direct
CSPC: 328013 / UPC: 626990070849
Distributor: Quaff Wine and Spirits
May 2010
New Releases
Merlot 2008, Syrah 2008 in the reds and Riesling 2009 / Riesling Classic 2009 in white.
Red One join's the Rosé family!
The Pinot Meunier Rosé finally gets a "male partner". Our first (and only) blend with a sexy ruby color. Exclusively at wine-shop or online.
Only 100 cases produced.
New Releases
Merlot 2008, Syrah 2008 in the reds and Riesling 2009 / Riesling Classic 2009 in white.
Red One join's the Rosé family!
The Pinot Meunier Rosé finally gets a "male partner". Our first (and only) blend with a sexy ruby color. Exclusively at wine-shop or online.
Only 100 cases produced.
May 25, 2010
Uncorked: A baker's dozen of Pinot Gris to pick up
By Jurgen Gothe
Here comes a baker's dozen of gris-gris for the sunny days ahead-selected Pinot Gris, all but two from British Columbia wine regions. If you're old enough to cast your mind back to the early days of 1968, you might recall the great Dr. John's debut album, Gris Gris, a curious jambalaya of New Orleans R&B and psychedelic rock. It had a disappointing start on vinyl; later, reissued on CD, it received the acclaim it deserved, ending up on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, at number 143. A gris-gris is a voodoo amulet meant to bring luck. In the case of this batch of wines, luck had little to do with it; good winemaking did. We'll look at the wines in ascending order of price, beginning with one of the non-B.C. ones.
8th Generation Pinot Gris 2008 ($20.90)
All of 606 cases of this vintage came into existence; a luscious, passion-fruit-rich wine with hints of something mineral-y on the back of the tongue. Well worth the quest.
Uncorked: A baker's dozen of Pinot Gris to pick up
By Jurgen Gothe
Here comes a baker's dozen of gris-gris for the sunny days ahead-selected Pinot Gris, all but two from British Columbia wine regions. If you're old enough to cast your mind back to the early days of 1968, you might recall the great Dr. John's debut album, Gris Gris, a curious jambalaya of New Orleans R&B and psychedelic rock. It had a disappointing start on vinyl; later, reissued on CD, it received the acclaim it deserved, ending up on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, at number 143. A gris-gris is a voodoo amulet meant to bring luck. In the case of this batch of wines, luck had little to do with it; good winemaking did. We'll look at the wines in ascending order of price, beginning with one of the non-B.C. ones.
8th Generation Pinot Gris 2008 ($20.90)
All of 606 cases of this vintage came into existence; a luscious, passion-fruit-rich wine with hints of something mineral-y on the back of the tongue. Well worth the quest.
May 20, 2010
www.vinifico.com
The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival - Our picks
posted by Graham in the Category: Booze, Festival notes
Another year of the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, this time in the new Vancouver Convention Centre, has come to pass. The new location - much like the old - served up some tasty sips from some fantastic producers. There were so many fantastic wines over the three days we attended. It's impossible to mention them all, so here are the standouts what we saw as the standouts.
Sean's BC highlights included: 8th Generation - This was another surprise find. Their line-up of Rieslings is something I'll be looking for in the future.
Graham's BC highlights included: 8th Generation - Man, these are some nice Rieslings. For under $20, these are definitely on my radar.
www.vinifico.com
The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival - Our picks
posted by Graham in the Category: Booze, Festival notes
Another year of the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, this time in the new Vancouver Convention Centre, has come to pass. The new location - much like the old - served up some tasty sips from some fantastic producers. There were so many fantastic wines over the three days we attended. It's impossible to mention them all, so here are the standouts what we saw as the standouts.
Sean's BC highlights included: 8th Generation - This was another surprise find. Their line-up of Rieslings is something I'll be looking for in the future.
Graham's BC highlights included: 8th Generation - Man, these are some nice Rieslings. For under $20, these are definitely on my radar.
Aplil 02, 2010
April Wine: 2008 8th Generation Riesling Classic
A Riesling with duck? Why not? Plus: what's old is new in serving trays, and our favourite recipe from Canada's best cookbook.
Ask an Oenophile: The Expert: Robert Stelmachuk, sommelier at Vancouver's Chambar Belgian Restaurant The Dish: Le canard aux epices: spice rubbed duck breast, butternut squash purée, red delicious caramelized apples, whipped goat cheese and tamarind gastrique, $29 The Pairing: 8th Generation Riesling Classic, 2008; glass $12, bottle $50 This Riesling, from B.C.'s 8th Generation winery, is a wine we offer by the glass as well as the bottle. I wanted to pair the duck with something accessible as well as something available at a reasonable price point. And I wanted to do a white because it's a little bit more outside the box; pinot noir is your typical pairing with duck. The spice rub on our duck is a little bit exotic - a mix of cardamom, cinnamon and star anise - while the Riesling Classic has got brilliant acidity and great minerality, with lots of green apple. The wine and the rub really complement each other very well: the acidity of the wine balances out the spice aspect of things, the apple flavour is echoed in the caramelized apple on the dish, while the sweetness of the butternut squash purée is complemented by the Riesling's dryness. A lot of people are afraid to ask for help when it comes to wine, but they shouldn't be. If more people were willing to venture and enjoy both food and wine with an anticipation more of appetite rather than fear they would have way more success.
April Wine: 2008 8th Generation Riesling Classic
A Riesling with duck? Why not? Plus: what's old is new in serving trays, and our favourite recipe from Canada's best cookbook.
Ask an Oenophile: The Expert: Robert Stelmachuk, sommelier at Vancouver's Chambar Belgian Restaurant The Dish: Le canard aux epices: spice rubbed duck breast, butternut squash purée, red delicious caramelized apples, whipped goat cheese and tamarind gastrique, $29 The Pairing: 8th Generation Riesling Classic, 2008; glass $12, bottle $50 This Riesling, from B.C.'s 8th Generation winery, is a wine we offer by the glass as well as the bottle. I wanted to pair the duck with something accessible as well as something available at a reasonable price point. And I wanted to do a white because it's a little bit more outside the box; pinot noir is your typical pairing with duck. The spice rub on our duck is a little bit exotic - a mix of cardamom, cinnamon and star anise - while the Riesling Classic has got brilliant acidity and great minerality, with lots of green apple. The wine and the rub really complement each other very well: the acidity of the wine balances out the spice aspect of things, the apple flavour is echoed in the caramelized apple on the dish, while the sweetness of the butternut squash purée is complemented by the Riesling's dryness. A lot of people are afraid to ask for help when it comes to wine, but they shouldn't be. If more people were willing to venture and enjoy both food and wine with an anticipation more of appetite rather than fear they would have way more success.
April 2010
Spring Medals
Pinot Gris 2008
BRONZE - International Wine Competition, Kelowna 2010
Pinot Gris 2009 (not released yet)
BRONZE - International Wine Competition, Kelowna 2010
Riesling Classic 2009
BRONZE - North West Wine Summit 2010
Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009
SILVER - International Wine Competition, Kelowna 2010
BRONZE - North West Wine Summit 2010
Pinot Noir 2008
SILVER - International Wine Competition, Kelowna 2010
Syrah 2008
SILVER - 2010 All Canadian Wine Championship
SILVER - North West Wine Summit 2010
Spring Medals
Pinot Gris 2008
BRONZE - International Wine Competition, Kelowna 2010
Pinot Gris 2009 (not released yet)
BRONZE - International Wine Competition, Kelowna 2010
Riesling Classic 2009
BRONZE - North West Wine Summit 2010
Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009
SILVER - International Wine Competition, Kelowna 2010
BRONZE - North West Wine Summit 2010
Pinot Noir 2008
SILVER - International Wine Competition, Kelowna 2010
Syrah 2008
SILVER - 2010 All Canadian Wine Championship
SILVER - North West Wine Summit 2010
February 12, 2010
Go Canada go!
Olympics in Vancouver start today! Remember to wear red - even in the wine glass :-) And for that reason the official Olympic wine is in our household the Syrah 2007.
Go Canada go!
Olympics in Vancouver start today! Remember to wear red - even in the wine glass :-) And for that reason the official Olympic wine is in our household the Syrah 2007.
January 23, 2010
Taste of B.C. on www.vinifico.com
Attending the "Taste of BC 2010" event, put on by Liberty Wine Merchants and benefiting B.C. Children's Hospital - Oak Tree Clinic, this year for the first time was a really great decision. We've had lots of conversations about "palate shift" of late, and I can honestly say I have been seeking the rustic and mineral driven wines versus the over concentrated wines I have been finding locally. The event was a pleasant reminder, if not a reawakening for me about some of the excellent wine being produced in BC. Pair that with some tasty snacks and you have decent evening all around.
In terms of wine, the highlights were: 8th Generation Vineyard - We first tasted their wines at last year's Playhouse International Festival, and knew we had to seek them out. They had a full spectrum of wines including Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, two Rieslings, Pinot Noir and a Syrah. The whites stole the show, with delicious Rieslings being highlights. The Pinot Gris was also interesting, having spent some time on oak - unusual in my experience for a BC Pinot Gris, but really elegant and tasty. At an average price of about $22, these are real benchmarks for local wine quality/price ratio.
Taste of B.C. on www.vinifico.com
Attending the "Taste of BC 2010" event, put on by Liberty Wine Merchants and benefiting B.C. Children's Hospital - Oak Tree Clinic, this year for the first time was a really great decision. We've had lots of conversations about "palate shift" of late, and I can honestly say I have been seeking the rustic and mineral driven wines versus the over concentrated wines I have been finding locally. The event was a pleasant reminder, if not a reawakening for me about some of the excellent wine being produced in BC. Pair that with some tasty snacks and you have decent evening all around.
In terms of wine, the highlights were: 8th Generation Vineyard - We first tasted their wines at last year's Playhouse International Festival, and knew we had to seek them out. They had a full spectrum of wines including Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, two Rieslings, Pinot Noir and a Syrah. The whites stole the show, with delicious Rieslings being highlights. The Pinot Gris was also interesting, having spent some time on oak - unusual in my experience for a BC Pinot Gris, but really elegant and tasty. At an average price of about $22, these are real benchmarks for local wine quality/price ratio.
February 11, 2010
Wines to write home about
By Jurgen Gothe
A Tale of Two Rieslings
Both are part of the current release from Summerland's 8th Generation Vineyard (whose rosé impressed mightily last year). Riesling and Riesling Classic (Old Vines Dry), both 2008, both priced at $20: two excellent examples of how well we make Riesling in B.C. Between them, fewer than 800 cases came off the line, and it's tough to pick a favourite.
My suggestion: go for both. But for solo sipping - never mind sipping, gulping - the "regular" has a slight edge, while for food, the Old Vines Dry sure hits the spot. I think it's time to lay in a small supply. The winery is your best bet.
Wines to write home about
By Jurgen Gothe
A Tale of Two Rieslings
Both are part of the current release from Summerland's 8th Generation Vineyard (whose rosé impressed mightily last year). Riesling and Riesling Classic (Old Vines Dry), both 2008, both priced at $20: two excellent examples of how well we make Riesling in B.C. Between them, fewer than 800 cases came off the line, and it's tough to pick a favourite.
My suggestion: go for both. But for solo sipping - never mind sipping, gulping - the "regular" has a slight edge, while for food, the Old Vines Dry sure hits the spot. I think it's time to lay in a small supply. The winery is your best bet.
February, 2010
New Release Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009
The Magic of Rosé is BACK! Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009 hits the shelves... in time for Valentines Day... in time for the Olympics... in time for the ones which missed'em most- the fans from last summer... pick a reason (if you need one) otherwise enjoy till it lasts...
New Release Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009
The Magic of Rosé is BACK! Pinot Meunier Rosé 2009 hits the shelves... in time for Valentines Day... in time for the Olympics... in time for the ones which missed'em most- the fans from last summer... pick a reason (if you need one) otherwise enjoy till it lasts...
October 31, 2009
The Tasting Room Radio with Terry David Mulligan
"I stopped by 8th Generation winery in Trout Creek, south of Summerland in the Okanagan. They make a lot of fine wine but especially Riesling and perhaps the best Rose in BC. They were having a special cheese and wine pairing and I thought I'd drop in before the crowds showed up... And not just any cheese but cheese from all over the world as presented by Wendy Buers who runs Say Cheese!! A cheese event company from Armstrong, BC bad idea... they place was jumping... So I did this interview while they were wining and cheesing..working around the crowds and a smallish lady who bumped me away from the tasting table. Bernd Schales is an 8th generation winemaker. Stefanie is a 10th generation winegrower.
They know what they're doing."
Enjoy, TDM!
The Tasting Room Radio with Terry David Mulligan
"I stopped by 8th Generation winery in Trout Creek, south of Summerland in the Okanagan. They make a lot of fine wine but especially Riesling and perhaps the best Rose in BC. They were having a special cheese and wine pairing and I thought I'd drop in before the crowds showed up... And not just any cheese but cheese from all over the world as presented by Wendy Buers who runs Say Cheese!! A cheese event company from Armstrong, BC bad idea... they place was jumping... So I did this interview while they were wining and cheesing..working around the crowds and a smallish lady who bumped me away from the tasting table. Bernd Schales is an 8th generation winemaker. Stefanie is a 10th generation winegrower.
They know what they're doing."
Enjoy, TDM!
November, 2009
New Release of the three unfiltered 2008 red's: Merlot, Syrah and Pinot Noir. Available exclusively at the wineshop.
New Release of the three unfiltered 2008 red's: Merlot, Syrah and Pinot Noir. Available exclusively at the wineshop.
October 31, 2009
The Tasting Room Radio with Terry David Mulligan
"I stopped by 8th Generation winery in Trout Creek, south of Summerland in the Okanagan. They make a lot of fine wine but especially Riesling and perhaps the best Rose in BC. They were having a special cheese and wine pairing and I thought I'd drop in before the crowds showed up... And not just any cheese but cheese from all over the world as presented by Wendy Buers who runs Say Cheese!! A cheese event company from Armstrong, BC bad idea... they place was jumping... So I did this interview while they were wining and cheesing..working around the crowds and a smallish lady who bumped me away from the tasting table. Bernd Schales is an 8th generation winemaker. Stefanie is a 10th generation winegrower.
They know what they're doing."
Enjoy, TDM!
The Tasting Room Radio with Terry David Mulligan
"I stopped by 8th Generation winery in Trout Creek, south of Summerland in the Okanagan. They make a lot of fine wine but especially Riesling and perhaps the best Rose in BC. They were having a special cheese and wine pairing and I thought I'd drop in before the crowds showed up... And not just any cheese but cheese from all over the world as presented by Wendy Buers who runs Say Cheese!! A cheese event company from Armstrong, BC bad idea... they place was jumping... So I did this interview while they were wining and cheesing..working around the crowds and a smallish lady who bumped me away from the tasting table. Bernd Schales is an 8th generation winemaker. Stefanie is a 10th generation winegrower.
They know what they're doing."
Enjoy, TDM!
July 10, 2009
Okanagan Feast of Fields
Come and join us in the Okanagan to celebrate the very first Okanagan Feast of Fields on Sunday August 23rd, 2009 from 1-5pm. This benchmark event to celebrate the amazing bounty of the Okanagan will be held at the beautiful Valentine Farm in Summerland. Tucked away in a picturesque valley behind the town of Summerland, Valentine Farm is surrounded by rolling hills of vineyard, orchard, ground crops, hay and horse paddocks. We as 8th Generation Winery will team up with Summerland's Victoria Road Bistro and a local Summerland Farmer (which is actually a neighbor of Valentine Farm). It can't get any closer.
The numerous world class chefs that now make the Okanagan home are excited to showcase the Okanagan-Similkameen region and its growing food scene and world class wines, beers and spirits. Come to the Okanagan this August and join us at the first feast and see what all the excitement is about.
If you are looking for a place to stay, we do have outstanding B&B's in Summerland too:
www.applesnwine.com
www.applesandquails.com
www.catbirdridge.ca
www.lapuntanorte.com
www.summerlandmotel.com
www.sundialbb.ca
www.touchofenglish.com
Okanagan Feast of Fields
Come and join us in the Okanagan to celebrate the very first Okanagan Feast of Fields on Sunday August 23rd, 2009 from 1-5pm. This benchmark event to celebrate the amazing bounty of the Okanagan will be held at the beautiful Valentine Farm in Summerland. Tucked away in a picturesque valley behind the town of Summerland, Valentine Farm is surrounded by rolling hills of vineyard, orchard, ground crops, hay and horse paddocks. We as 8th Generation Winery will team up with Summerland's Victoria Road Bistro and a local Summerland Farmer (which is actually a neighbor of Valentine Farm). It can't get any closer.
The numerous world class chefs that now make the Okanagan home are excited to showcase the Okanagan-Similkameen region and its growing food scene and world class wines, beers and spirits. Come to the Okanagan this August and join us at the first feast and see what all the excitement is about.
If you are looking for a place to stay, we do have outstanding B&B's in Summerland too:
www.applesnwine.com
www.applesandquails.com
www.catbirdridge.ca
www.lapuntanorte.com
www.summerlandmotel.com
www.sundialbb.ca
www.touchofenglish.com
June 16, 2009
Our Compliments
I was the bride-to-be on the stagette tour that came through 8th Generation as the first stop on our wine tour on Saturday June 13th. I just wanted to extend our thanks and compliments to you for your amazing hosting. Everyone enjoyed themselves there immensley. We loved that the owners hosted us and gave such generous tastings and took the time to answer our questions and explain the wine making process to us. As some of us are from farming communities and families, we really appreciated the family run atmosphere of your winery and the presence of your kids at our tasting.
We couldn't help but compare the rest of the wineries we visited to yours- their hostings were undeniably sub-par to yours. We felt like we were nothing more than potential customers to them, but felt like guests at your winery. Everyone on the tour was so grateful we went to your winery first to set the standards for the rest our tours. We will all definitely be stopping by to visit and buy more wine the next time we come through Summerland.
Thanks again. You guys made the wine tour for us!
-K.W.
Our Compliments
I was the bride-to-be on the stagette tour that came through 8th Generation as the first stop on our wine tour on Saturday June 13th. I just wanted to extend our thanks and compliments to you for your amazing hosting. Everyone enjoyed themselves there immensley. We loved that the owners hosted us and gave such generous tastings and took the time to answer our questions and explain the wine making process to us. As some of us are from farming communities and families, we really appreciated the family run atmosphere of your winery and the presence of your kids at our tasting.
We couldn't help but compare the rest of the wineries we visited to yours- their hostings were undeniably sub-par to yours. We felt like we were nothing more than potential customers to them, but felt like guests at your winery. Everyone on the tour was so grateful we went to your winery first to set the standards for the rest our tours. We will all definitely be stopping by to visit and buy more wine the next time we come through Summerland.
Thanks again. You guys made the wine tour for us!
-K.W.
May 19, 2009
All Canadian Wine Championship 2009 Awards
Riesling Classic 2008 : GOLD
Northwest Wine Summit
Merlot 2007 : GOLD
Riesling Classic 2008 : SILVER
Riesling 2008 : SILVER
Pinot Meunier Rosé 2008 : BRONZE
All Canadian Wine Championship 2009 Awards
Riesling Classic 2008 : GOLD
Northwest Wine Summit
Merlot 2007 : GOLD
Riesling Classic 2008 : SILVER
Riesling 2008 : SILVER
Pinot Meunier Rosé 2008 : BRONZE
May 01, 2009
Riesling 2008 on board when you cruise Okanagan
Lake on Penticton's unique paddlewheeler you will treat
your palate to a special wine and food adventure!
Taste a selection of Okanagan Finest wines exquisitely
paired with Gourmet Hors d'oeuvres. Wine steward unveils
the secrets of wine tasting and shows you the panorama
of Okanagan wines.
Riesling 2008 on board when you cruise Okanagan
Lake on Penticton's unique paddlewheeler you will treat
your palate to a special wine and food adventure!
Taste a selection of Okanagan Finest wines exquisitely
paired with Gourmet Hors d'oeuvres. Wine steward unveils
the secrets of wine tasting and shows you the panorama
of Okanagan wines.
April 30, 2009
Georgia Straight - Pink wines are in full bloom.
By: Jurgen Gothe
This release debuts the winery's new label graphics, as clean and bright and stylish as the wine inside. Another one in short supply (328 cases), it presents spicy fruit, a luscious finish, silky-soft texture, and food-taming acidity. It's a rosé for people who profess not to like rosé "because it's too light". Ha! I served this with my tomato, escarole, lemon, and mint soup (at least three ingredients there that people say you can't pair with wine!), and later this season I'll give you the recipe. A huge hit, brand-new out of the Okanagan, it already got Silver at the All-Canadian Wine Championships.
Georgia Straight - Pink wines are in full bloom.
By: Jurgen Gothe
This release debuts the winery's new label graphics, as clean and bright and stylish as the wine inside. Another one in short supply (328 cases), it presents spicy fruit, a luscious finish, silky-soft texture, and food-taming acidity. It's a rosé for people who profess not to like rosé "because it's too light". Ha! I served this with my tomato, escarole, lemon, and mint soup (at least three ingredients there that people say you can't pair with wine!), and later this season I'll give you the recipe. A huge hit, brand-new out of the Okanagan, it already got Silver at the All-Canadian Wine Championships.
April 30, 2009
New Release of Riesling 2008 and Pinot Meunier
Rosé 2008 exclusively at the wineshop.
New Release of Riesling 2008 and Pinot Meunier
Rosé 2008 exclusively at the wineshop.
March 02, 2009
Burgundy-Style B.C. Wines on CBC
Listen to the interview (runs 7:22)
Burgundy-Style B.C. Wines on CBC
Listen to the interview (runs 7:22)
February 2009
VQA - 8th Generation Wines.
Search for our wines in the VQA boutique Winestores
VQA - 8th Generation Wines.
Search for our wines in the VQA boutique Winestores
February 17, 2009
Spring Release: April 2009 all whites & rosé
Spring Release: April 2009 all whites & rosé
January 2009
winetrails.ca
8th Generation Supports Community...
winetrails.ca
8th Generation Supports Community...
November 14, 2008
The Vancouver Courier
Family that wines together shines together...
The Vancouver Courier
Family that wines together shines together...
November 05, 2008
Winemaker Dinner
Winemaker Dinner
June 2008
Wine Occasions
Wine of the month
Wine Occasions
Wine of the month
August 29, 2008
8th Generation Wines on Wine Diva...
8th Generation Wines on Wine Diva...
July 07, 2008
8th Generation on ctvbc.ca
8th Generation on ctvbc.ca
May 29, 2008
This spring's sipping is love
at first white. By Jurgen Gothe
This spring's sipping is love
at first white. By Jurgen Gothe
May 22, 2008
8th Generation Vineyard Riesling
8th Generation Vineyard Riesling
May 14, 2008
North Shore News
Okanagan serves up spring at festival
North Shore News
Okanagan serves up spring at festival
Summer 2008
CBC Radio wine Recommendations 2008
Troy Townsin's Wine Recommendations
CBC Radio wine Recommendations 2008
Troy Townsin's Wine Recommendations
October 2008
winetrails.ca
Bottleneck drive 2008
winetrails.ca
Bottleneck drive 2008
October 2008
Wine on the Mountain
Riesling 2006 - Best Sparkling
Wine on the Mountain
Riesling 2006 - Best Sparkling
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