The motto of Road 13 Vineyards is “it’s all about the dirt”, but really, with this fine wine, it’s all about the vines. Old vines. This chenin blanc was planted in 1968 on the Golden Mile Bench, BC’s first official sub-geographical indication (sub GI). And yes, that geographical, terroir-defined classification was, fittingly enough, entirely based on the dirt.

Open this wine in advance and let it stretch its legs a bit. Chenin vines nearing 50 years old deserve time, and the complexities of this wine are best experienced with your patience. Herbal, savoury, thistle and honeysuckle aromas before a waxy, palate of quince, honey blossom, wild herbs, straw, citrus and swelling acidity, roundly balancing out a kiss of residual sugar. Phenolic and textured, the finish prickles with fine, ginger-rasped spices.

I recently chatted up winemaker J-M Bouchard about the message in this bottle…

Road 13 Old Vines Chenin Blanc 2014 | Golden Mile Bench | Okanagan Valley, BC

Straight up – why did you make this wine? Straight up, it was already in our portfolio when I joined Road 13 in January, 2011. But it has since been an honour to play with these world class grapes.

Where are the grapes from? Our Home Vineyard; old vines planted in 1968; located in the shadow of our Castle on the Golden Mile Bench.

Your ideal pairing with this wine would be…? La Tur cheese. It’s made in Italy’s Piedmont region at a dairy near Alba. It’s a soft, rich and creamy cheese made of blended sheep, cow and goat milk.

Favourite BC wine, other than yours? A tough question…a few favourites but hard to find a clear winner….the Noble Blend from JoieFarm is always a great pick when I crave an onion tart. I have lots of respect for the consistent quality and for the value for money spent.

What do you drink when you’re not drinking BC wine? Champagne & Single Malt Whiskey.

MORE MESSAGES IN OTHER BOTTLES