Quite a few of you know that my ‘day job’ is professional winemaker and has been for close to 25 years. I think there’s an expectation from some readers that I’ll hold forth on all things wine more often. So here goes.
I’m happy to say I’ve really been keen on my first three months in my return to Therapy Vineyards & Inn in Naramata, BC. I first worked with the Therapy team back in 2018-20 and thoroughly enjoyed that stint so when the opportunity arose to take on the role of Director of Winemaking & Sales, I leapt at the chance.
One of the things that attracted me to Therapy was the strength in the stable of wines. There’s nothing weak in the lineup and the whole range is performing at a superb level.
The pun or the play on words has always been a big part of the Therapy brand. That’s important to know as we take a look at these wines. Especially if you look at one of the labels and wonder, “Why the hell did they name it that?”. The emphasis on the cartoon drawings and Rorschach inkblots has waned but some of the names have lingered on…
Which brings us to the first of three wines -
2022 Pink Freud -
A great rosé with just a hint of sweetness that really drives the fruity palate. If you’re reading this before the winter holidays, it’s a great accompaniment to the feasting table or a selection of casual charcuterie and cheese board offerings as it’s very versatile. I may not pair it with something robust and assertive like steak or something delicate and refined like white fish dishes but it steps in and holds its own with brie, crab and artichoke dip or even nachos. Made with gently pressed Merlot from the home vineyard and cold fermented, it’s priced at $24.99
2022 The Ridge Riesling -
A dry Riesling with lots of emerging complexity. I love it now for the crisp, assertive Granny Smith green apple acidity and I’m looking forward to the evolution of this one over the next few years. Already there are hints of dried apricot and perhaps ginger. Not quite full blown fuel attributes like many aged Rieslings of high repute but it’s early days and our cellar notes suggest aging this wine for five years or more. Make sure you get a few bottles to test the potential of this wine. In the meantime, pair it with smoked trout crudo, risotto with ham and mushroom or a medium cheese with a handful of toasted almonds. Find it in our online shop at $27.99
Fizzio Therapy Blanc -
For a celebration or a little consolation, few wines pick up the psyche like sparkling wine. Winter Wednesdays seem a little less sombre when toasted with a bit of bubble. This casual white wine has a mid-range level of effervescent, dominated by expressive fruit flavour with notable citrus influences. The eclectic menus of holiday brunches can be a tough match for many wines, but this one works well on it’s own, with Eggs Benedict or forming a base for your mimosa. Made from an artfully crafted melange of white varieties, you can leave some out for Santa at $25.99
I’ll be posting more about the rest of the Therapy lineup soon.
As always I welcome your feedback. If any restaurants, liquor stores or other resellers would like to know more about our wines and what we have to offer, please reach out and I’ll be in contact. Just leave a comment!