Beer, wine and spirits are a gift from nature that we have been regifting to each other since the beginning of recorded history, and perhaps even before then.
Personally, I like to give Christmas presents I stand a good chance of sharing in.
At the same time, I'm aware of the thinly veiled messages we send through such gifts. Like books, alcohol says as much about the gifter as it does the giftee.
This holiday season, I've decided to show loved ones how much I care with a number of local offerings.
The following will tell family and friends I appreciate what makes each of them special to me, while also showing how urbane I am.
And with a bit of cunning, I should be able to imbibe a glass of each.
PINOT NOIR RESERVE 2009
Averill Creek Vineyard, Duncan, $60
Recipient: long-suffering girlfriend
This silky pinot noir has complex aromas of plum, raspberry and tobacco, combined with a hint of nutmeg and clove that are revealed in the mouth and linger long after. Best suited to savoury red-meat dishes, this medium-bodied pinot can also stand up well at Christmas dinner.
Subtext: Few wines match the romance, sexiness and sensuality of pinot noir.
Alas, it has a deserved reputation as the "heartbreak grape" for a reason: no other varietal requires more care, attention and investment. Still, the spectacular results are worth it.
(Hang in there, sweetie.)
GLENORA FANTASIA BRUT
Vigneti Zanatta Winery & Vineyards, Duncan, $30
Recipient: tireless mom
Fashioned in the traditional method, this sparkling white is made from 100 per cent Cayuga grapes, aged for a minimum of three years. Lots of effervescent bubbles lift aromas of green pear and Granny Smith apple, which reappear on the mouth in a creamy texture.
Subtext: Sparkling whites made in the traditional method involve tremendous amounts of time and labour. Likewise, mom grew up on a farm and so she isn't happy if she isn't working. Sparkling whites are also festive and fun to drink, and if there is one thing mom likes, it's a party. What's more, she keeps getting better with age.
KINGS & SPIES CIDER
Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse, Saanich, $15
Recipient: conservative father
Dad is a retired air force general who thinks the word "occupy" should apply only to military endeavours.
A cold warrior to the core, he will surely be intrigued by something called Kings & Spies. (That it is named for a blend of two particular apples, Kings and Northern Spies, is irrelevant.)
Hard to say if he'll be a convert, but this herbaceous cider, with its notes of fresh-cut grass, wildflowers and lemon citrus, has enough body and character to warrant his respect.
Subtext: I admire your willingness to try new things before dismissing them.
LEFT COAST HEMP VODKA
Victoria Spirits Victoria, Saanich, $34
Recipient: brother and sisterinlaw visiting from Calgary
Distilled with locally grown organic hemp seed and blended with 91原创 Island spring water, Left Coast Hemp Vodka has a rich, silky texture and more flavour than you would expect in a vodka. In particular, the smooth oils of hemp hearts combine with notes of hazelnut and a hint of spice.
Subtext: Nothing says "I live in B.C. and you live in Alberta" like a West Coast spirit distilled from organic hemp seed. I just pray they don't make caesars with it.
OLD CELLAR DWELLER BARLEYWINE STYLE ALE
Driftwood Brewing Company, Victoria, $10
Recipient: college buddy
Scheduled for release next week, this seasonal ale is high test. With three times the malt bill and five times normal strength hops, it is full of big flavour.
It also packs 12 per cent alcohol. Though hoppy, it has hints of citrus fruit, sweet caramel, brown sugar and nuts. It ages well, too.
Subtext: It's time to make the transition from quantity to quality.
SOLSTICE METHEGLIN
Tugwell Creek Meadery, Sooke, $21
Recipient: Aging hippie neighbour
As you might expect from a mead, Solstice Metheglin is full of wildflower honey flavour, tempered by the addition of ginger and spices, and the smoothing effects of up to six months in French oak barrels. It can be drunk young, but cellars well for up to 15 years.
Subtext: I respect your lifestyle and love of nature. And no, I don't know if it pairs well with pot.
Note: Due to limited supply, many of the above products are not available in government-run B.C. Liquor Stores. Check online, or at specialty wine, beer and spirit retailers in Greater Victoria.
