YAM Summer Wine List

Looking for the perfect wine for the season? These local experts weigh in with their top picks for summer.

Unsworth Charme De L’ile Sparkling from the Cowichan Valley: Pamela Sanderson, Hire A Somm

“I like this Prosecco-style sparkling [wine] from the Cowichan Valley for its quality, price and versatility. Made with Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Sauvignette grapes, this wine is well-balanced with a soft fruitiness contrasted with a crisp freshness.

This could be enjoyed any time on its own, with a variety of canapés or a lovely seafood salad.”

Seven Directions Rosé from Summerland:Marly Luton, bar director, The Livet

“In the summer, if I’m drinking wine, I need it to be dry and refreshing. The Provence-style Pinot Noir rosé from Seven Directions is pale in colour, dry and full of fruit, with a hint of salt and cream. Seven Directions is winemaker Daniel Bontorin’s rosé project, making small-lot rosés from single vineyards and varieties. Pairs well with spinach salad, salmon, fresh tuna — or any patio.”

La Frenz Alexandria from Naramata Bench: Jon Derry, owner, The Collective Wine Bar & Kitchen

“Whenever I taste [La Frenz], it immediately makes me want to open a bottle with friends on the patio. It is a perfect summer wine! The Alexandria is nicely balanced between sweetness and acidity and has good complexity for the price. The nose has lovely hints of stone fruit, it has a great mouth feel and provides flavours of melon, citrus and tropical fruit with a beautifully smooth finish. I suggest pairing with oysters or roast chicken.”


This article is from the July/August 2019 issue of YAM.