A case of British Columbia's best wines

Top performers at the Wine Access 2011 Canadian Wine Awards

This list was originally published in the February 2012 issue of Avenue magazine.

  • Church & State 2009 Coyote Bowl Syrah
  • Laughing Stock 2009 Syrah
  • Painted Rock 2008 Estate Grown Syrah
  • Burrowing Owl 2008 Syrah
  • Gold Hill 2009 Cabernet Franc
  • Hester Creek 2008 Reserve Cabernet Franc
  • Nk'Mip 2009 Qwam Qwmt Pinot Noir
  • Road 13 2008 Jackpot Pinot Noir
  • Painted Rock 2009 Red Icon
  • Red Rooster 2010 Chardonnay
  • Quail's Gate 2009 Chardonnay
  • Red Rooster 2010 Reserve Chardonnay
Church & State 2009 Coyote Bowl Syrah
91Points

What is so impressive about this syrah is the way that it combines northern Rhône scents and structure with warm climate generosity. Floral, herbal and peppery, with classic orange peel and bacon fat notes on the nose. Mouth-filling dark fruit add power through ripeness, but brisk acidity gives this wine great edge. Drink now or in the next 5 years. This wine won a gold medal at the Wine Access 2011 Canadian Wine Awards.