Van Westen Vineyards, Vivacious, Naramata Bench

Big, nervy, mouth-filling. Loads of minerality, apples and stone fruits. No relation to the vapid, wannabe-chardonnay failures more typical of this grape in the lower 48.

this 96% Pinot Blanc wine opened up soft, played a little coy on the nose. You could see what was once vibrant and zesty was now sitting on the porch talking about the golden years. The palate still had a beautiful core and I liked how the acidity had softened up and allowed the mineral flavours to play with the lemon pudding and pear flavours. I liked this wine a lot because I know how it started out and its …

Aromas: Floral, mineral, green apple skin, lime, spice, vanilla, lees Flavours: Apple, mineral, citrus, spice, lees Body and Finish: Crisp entry, bright flavours and medium-light weight, racy finish Overall Impression: A bright, fresh wine that goes down easy but would make a lovely food wine (think roast pork loin) – Made with Pinot Blanc and a hint of Pinot Gris Cellaring Potential: Drink now Would I Buy It: Yes, price is right Points: 89 Price: $18.90 Availability: Winery, Private Retailers, …