OKANAGAN VALLEY SYRAH: AS COOL AS IT SOUNDS

Oh Canada! Our home and native land… at least native to this unusual red by Rigor and Whimsy, “Thus Spoke Veruca" (yes, the name is a reference to Veruca Salt of Willy Wonka fame). While named for Veruca, the wine's inspiration comes from the iconic Syrah-Viognier blends of the Northern Rhone. If Okanagan Syrah isn't yet on your radar yet, this wine makes a strong case for the style. Although it falls near the 50th parallel, Okanagan is much warmer and drier than regions like the Mosel and Champagne, with temperatures during peak summer frequently exceeding 86 degrees! Clocking in at just 13% alcohol, this wine shows some of the power of Syrah married with the elegance of the cool climate. The Viognier (15% of the blend) adds a floral aromatic lift and a little extra body. There is some used French oak on this wine as well, but the intention is to allow the grapes to shine through and do their thing, as well as expressing Canadian terroir. If you’re a fan of Northern Rhone Syrah, but looking for something new and edgy, open this bottle and open it now! -MVT