Anthony Gismondi: B.C. wine for the week of July 7, a bottle to cellar and calendar items

Opinion: The latest B.C. wine country buzz.

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If you plan a summer escape to the Okanagan, take note that on Aug. 11 to 14, there will be a Silver Star Summer Wine Festival.

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You’re invited to uncork together at their reimagined wine festival, featuring Savour the Sun wine dinners, wine tasting in the village, unique features and live music.

The weekend will bring some of the Okanagan’s most celebrated winemakers to the mountain destination. Uncork your senses in the fresh mountain air as they taste their way through the village, enjoying all the flavours B.C. offers.

Local food purveyors and artisanal cheeseries will offer sample bites for guests to enjoy throughout the afternoons from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $95 plus gratuity & tax.

A Taste of Okanagan Falls at Liquidity Winery is a guided flight of five estate wines overlooking the stunning views of Lucy and Allan estate vineyards. Prepaid reservations for parties of one to six are $25 per person. On-site art and amazing south valley views are bonus experiences at this hidden jewel. For reservations, check online.

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B.C. wine of the week

Modest Wines By Jove Sangiovese 2020, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

$29.99 I 89/100

UPC: 812289192693

This Sangiovese is sourced from Quinta Ferreira Vineyard on the Black Sage Bench, with a bit of Merlot and Cabernet Franc additions. It is rare to taste a Sangiovese outside Italy with a true varietal character (note the classic red cherry and spice). The style is light and refreshing, albeit with some desert scrub to shout Okanagan. I love the balance and the apparent potential for the future here. Well done. Winery direct.

Wine for the cellar 

Hess Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, North Coast Region, California, United States 

$29.99 I 89/100

UPC: 717888510025

The North Coast is sometimes described as a relatively mild Mediterranean climate intermingled with well-drained volcanic and gravelly soils. The year 2018 was ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, as promised by the rich black fruit. Look for plums and blackberries with a savoury undercurrent. Anything off the barbecue will work here as this wine ages into 2025.