A unique winemaking project is underway in the Okanagan, as Mireille Sauvé, a member of the BC chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier, oversees the creation of the “dames wine”.
Dame Mireille has been visiting the Okanagan from her home base in Vancouver to shepherd this fundraising project, supporting scholarships for BC women pursuing their education in wine and food. Les Dames d’Escoffier is an international organization and the only Canadian chapter is in British Columbia.
The red and white dame wines which will be bottled this spring, and a limited number will be available. All of the profits will go back to Les Dames d’Escoffier. The wines are unique, and Mireille, who became Canada’s youngest sommelier with funds from a Les Dames scholarship, says they are already showing great flavours and sophistication.
The white is a light straw colour with aromas of apricot, apple, pineapple and a hint of lime zest and mineral undertones. On the palate– light-bodied with lively acidity, racy lemon and lime. Pear, apricot and lychee fruit flavours finish with a cleansing dryness that prepares a mouth-watering palate for its next juicy sip.
As for the red? This will be a “fireplace” wine, enjoyed on its own or with friends with charcuterie, cheeses, burgers or stews. It has a deep crimson colour and a rich, vanilla-infused mulled berry aroma with bright red cherry juice and notes of star anise. Medium bodied, velvety tannins, and an abundance of dark fruit flavours, as it finishes with a spicy, toasted finish. Guaranteed to be your next winter wine.
Visit dameswine.com for details on how you can buy these bottles.
~ Allison Markin