Depending on which circles you run in, generally speaking, public consumption is frowned upon. The one caveat is when you pack a picnic basket full of delicious bread, cheese and cured meats – then all of a sudden packing a corkscrew in your bag is considered quasi acceptable. So whether it’s a wicker basket, an old school plastic camping cooler or a simple tote bag, grab your picnic vessel of choice and one of these wines. It’s time to get ready for Spring picnic season.
Kendall Jackson Vintners Reserve Chardonnay 2017
Available in BC @ BC Liquor Stores
Available in AB @ Liquor Depot & Liquor Barn
Distributed by: Summit Fine Wines
I wrote about this wine not too long ago in my VIWF Highlight: Next World Chardonnay article. It deserves another nod because of its versatility. Its mid body weight allows for it to be sipped on its own or to be paired with food and its depth of flavour makes it a good mate for veggie inspired dishes, drool worthy charcuterie or marinated meats. I used to turn the other way when a glass of chardonnay hinted at any discernable oak. But this was one of the bottles that changed that opinion. The palate is incredibly fruit forward, and not just typical citrus or stone fruit flavours. I’m talking ripe, tropical, juicy and mouth-watering flavours. Not sweet, just lots of flavour.
If I were to pack it on a picnic, I’d bring along a Quinoa Greek salad with a lemon and herb vinaigrette. Cold cucumber and juicy tomatos with olives, avocado and maybe some crispy chickpeas thrown in there. And quinoa, because I need grain in my life.
Lady Lola Pinot Grigio Moscato
Available in BC @ Everything Wine & select private stores
Available in AB
Distributed by: Lifford Wine & Spirits
If you want to pull out a bit of a showstopper bottle, the Lady Lola will undoubtedly spark a comment from picnic go-ers. Made from 80% Pinot Grigio (think refreshing citrus and light acidity) and 20% Moscato (ripe peaches and orange blossom), this blend is from Sicily, which is just off the toe of Southern Italy. The bottle’s stunning silhouette might take some practice to pour from, but once you take a sip you’ll instantly feel at ease with its approachable profile.
Packing a to-go meal? Allow for people to leisurely graze their food while relaxing and sipping. Put out a spread of crackers and flat breads to dip into hummus or olive tapenade. Aim for at least 3 or 4 different types of cheese with a few cured meats. And don’t forget the pickles and olives!
You can skip the recycling bin when this bottle is empty and remember to keep the cork. Reuse the clear glass and stopper for a myriad of things worth displaying. If you need some ideas, check out LadyLolaWines.com and get ready for your living room mantle or bathroom counter to be totally Insta-worthy.
Toso Brut Chardonnay Sparkling
Available in BC @ Everything Wine & select private stores
Distributed by: Authentic Wine & Spirits
Tired of Prosecco? Can’t afford Champagne? Get ready for me to blow your mind. This Sparkling Chardonnay is from Argentina. Yes, the land of Malbec and meat. Made from 100% Chardonnay, this Brut (aka dry) sparkling wine has a brightness that allows for the fresh green apple and pear flavours to shine through. The bubbles are assertive but the finish is still soft. Talk about an easy breezy drinkable bubble, for less than $20!
While some may think of sparkling wine as only an aperitif, I’m keen to pair this with a take-out sushi platter. Grab some friends, a blanket and a beach and pop the cork to endless evenings and sunsets and unforgettable Spring picnic season.