Drinks

BC’s Best Wines Under $25

Sample some of British Columbia's finest wines without breaking the bank. You can't go wrong with any of these choices, all for under $25

By Tracey Rayson /

If you’re looking to quaff a local glass (or bottle) of wine that leaves a bigger impression on your palate than on your wallet, check out these wonderful offerings by BC winemakers for under $25

 

When it comes to wine, as with real estate, location matters. And BC's real estate is perfect for flourishing vineyards.

BC's award-winning wines are the result of the province's distinct environmental factors – from desert conditions with extended hours of intense sunshine to cool-climate pockets.

The best thing about BC wines? You don't have to empty your wallet to get great value. Many choices on this list were culled from various BC/Canadian wine awards,some from stepping out to localtastings, orsimply a hit with local wine judges and oenephiles.

And while the range of great bottles is much longer than this list (especially those that cost a few extra bucks), you'll find great value and flavour with any of these bang-for-your-buck wines.

Drop in for wine tastings at specialty and select VQA wine stores and local hot spots like Vancouver Urban Winery. Vancouver's Local Wine Events will keep your taste buds hopping from vine to vine all year long. Check off your favourites exploring the Kelowna Wine Trailsand alsovisit tasting rooms throughout the province with your BC Winery Touring Guide. Cheers!

Nichol Pinot Gris 2011

A nose of peach pit, pear skin and eastern spices. The palate is dry, but fresh and vibrant with flavours of pear, apple skin and grapefruit. Mineral notes, light and crisp citrus, typical of of a great Gris.A long, vibrant and fresh finish. Food pairings: seafood, chicken, ceaser salad.

Nichol Vineyard, Naramata, BC: $22

Blasted Church Hatfield’s Fuse 2011

Tropical and orchard fruits on the nose. Medium to full-bodied with a palate of lychee, peach and pineapple. Crisp lime and zesty pink grapefruit on a long, lingering finish. Food pairings: halibut or cod with herb butter or battered, fried and salted; vinaigrette and field greens; spicy dishes.

Blasted Church Vineyards, Okanagan Falls, BC: $17.99

Cedar Creek Riesling 2011

Minerals and citrus notes off the top. Hits with big acidity, fresh and lively with lemon tartness and a touch of green apple that strikes a perfect balance to its sweetness. Food pairings: BC halibut, especially fish tacos.

All Canadian Wine Championships, Gold Medal — 2012

Cedar Creek Estate Winery, East Kelowna, BC: $17.90

Lang Vineyards Farm Reserve Riesling 2008

Full mature notes with petrol, marmalade, tropical fruit and vanilla aromas. Piercing lime acidity and long finish. Food pairings: alder smoked salmon, lemon baked chicken, Greek salad.

British Columbia Wine Awards, Gold Medal — 2012

Lang Vineyards, Naramata, BC: $18-$22

Quails’ Gate Chardonnay 2009

Accents of vanilla, roasted nuts and slight oak mix with floral aromas. Rich palate, slightly sweet; complex and loaded with flavours like bright tropical citrus, orange and lime. Fresh and juicy. Food pairings: lobster, roast chicken, salmon, corn dishes.

Quails' Gate Estate Winery, Kelowna, BC: $20

Gray Monk Ehrenfelser 2011

A delicate citrus nose and a pronounced apricot flavour. Finishes medium-sweet, but still a well-balanced wine. Food pairings: soft cheeses, fresh fruits, lobster, and custard desserts.

Okanagan Wine Festivals Society BC Wine Awards, Silver — 2012

Gray Monk Estate Winery, Kelowna: $18.99

Pentage Hiatus 2009

A Bordeaux-style blend of 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc. Full-bodied and juicy, black currant, cherry and spice with good acidity. Well balanced tannins with a soft, even finish. Food pairings: filet mignon, rack of lamb, veal, pork,and crème brûlée.

Canadian Wine Championships 2012 — Gold Medal

Pentage Winery, Penticton, BC: $20

Sumac Ridge Private Reserve Merlot 2009

A rich red with aromas of ripe dark cherry, blackberry and raspberry. Chocolate, plum and earthy palate rounds to a smooth, velvety finish with light tannins. Food pairings: grilled meats, vegetarian dishes.

Sumac Ridge Estate Winery, Summerland, BC: $15.99

Mission Hill Five Vineyards Pinot Noir 2009

Medium-bodied and barrel-fermented in French oak, this wine has raspberry and strawberry top notes. Acidic and tart on the front, but finishes creamy with classic noir silky texture. Food pairings: turkey, ham, andduck.

Mission Hill Family Estate, Kelowna, BC: $20

See Ya Later Ranch Nelly 2009

A ripe and round rosé with aromas of raspberry, cherry and a hint of watermelon. Rich and elegant, full-bodied creaminess, well balanced and structured. Food pairings: grilled smoked pork tenderloin.

See Ya Later Ranch, Okanagan Falls: $16.99