Wine Guy: Classic, cosy reds

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Now is when I really begin feeling the urge to hunker down. Sure, we’re well into winter, well past the shortest day of the year and all that. But I find it relatively easy to ride the wave of excitement into the holiday season, to crest the New Year on a wave of good times and family embraces. Towards the end of January, however, with the wet skies unwavering and the windshields still frosted over in the morning — this is when my enthusiasm waxes and wanes. Plus, the December credit card statement just arrived. In these days, nothing says comfort like a glass of a classic, cosy red.

Antaño 2014 Rioja Crianza, Spain ($12.99, #72223)

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Cosy and comfortable does not have to mean rich and unctuous. The classic flavour profile of wines from Spain’s Rioja region bring comfort in their own right: the mix of red fruit, earth, and herbs melding with acidity and toasty oak. They’re all here in Antaño’s Rioja Crianza, which is a lean, lighter style red that comes across very dry and is best served with food, particularly tomato-sauce based dishes.

Bottom line: B-, Dry and savoury

Mission Hill 5 Vineyards 2014 Cabernet Merlot, B.C. ($16.99, #257816)

In decades past, when I was just getting my feet wet with wine, I toiled as a clerk at a (now long gone) Mark Anthony Wine Store. Then, as now, Mission Hill Family Estate featured in the portfolio. Back then, one of my go-to wine recommendations for customers looking for a “reasonably-priced, bold red” was the 5 Vineyards Cab Merlot. I believe it retailed for $14.99 in those days, but aside from a few dollars not much has changed. Thankfully, as this inky, purple black blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc sourced from vineyards in both Oliver and Osoyoos still delivers a bold mix of berry, plum, oak shavings, and spice. The finish comes across dry with tongue-massaging tannins, so bring on the roast beef — or simply a hunk of aged cheddar.

Bottom line: B, Easy everyday red

Catena 2015 High Mountain Vines Malbec, Argentina ($23.99, # 478727)

Malbec is tailor-made for cosying up on a cold night, and Argentine Malbec doesn’t come more classic than Catena. The label proudly references the winery’s “High Mountain Vines,” a statement with merit. The high elevation vineyards (all sited more than 3,000 feet above sea level) bring cooler climates and stressed vines, which in the glass translates into more finesse. There’s an enjoyable balance of richness and elegance, of fruity and savoury, and great balance overall.

Bottom line: A-, Easy food partner, think beef Stroganoff or tacos de hongos

The Swirl: The Main Affair

Billed as a “cosy yet sophisticated evening,” the upcoming The Main Affair promises to celebrate Vancouver’s “very own vegan food and beverage entrepreneurs.” Taking place Friday, Feb. 9 at Heritage Hall (3102 Main Street, Vancouver), two seating times are available: Session One (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) and Session Two (9 p.m. to 11 p.m.). Each session includes vegan tapas, canapés, and desserts alongside unlimited pours of cocktails, craft beer, wine, kombucha, and other non-alcoholic beverages — all complemented by live entertainment and door prizes! Tickets are $85 (plus fees and taxes), with proceeds benefiting the Society for Advancement of Musicians. For complete details head to facebook.com/events/1718382468185375

Contact James: @hadaglass