Robert Bell's

Wines of Canada

Since 1992

Robert's Report

Backyard Vineyards

 

As we try to leave winter behind, it is once again time to visit the first of many wineries in British Columbia's Fraser Valley. A short drive from our White Rock home placed us at Backyard Vineyards, which was one of the first wineries to open in the Fraser Valley in Langley Township. The winery is owned by Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Inc of Ontario.

Barbara and I were accompanied by our good friends Ken and Jane. We were warmly greeted, and easily passed the Covid passport proticol that helps keep us all healthy.

Ted has been with the winery for eight years; he was was our tasting host and did an excellent job.Winemaker Liam Berti was enjoying some well-earned time off.

Ted started the tasting experience with a selection of Bacchus a 2017, 2020, and a fresh from the tank, 2021. I am a huge Bacchus fan and this was a real treat to compare the different vintages. A brisk discussion followed with the 2020 awarded a slight edge.

The tasting experience continued with a very nice 2021 Gewürztraminer. It has a perfect sweetness with minimal hints of grapefruit and honeysuckle. Jane favoured this vintage. It was followed by the 2018 Reserved Viognier. The wine displays  aromas of fresh cut citrus, honeysuckle and a hint of orange blossom. Yum.

Next came the reds featuring 2018 Cabernet Merlot displaying a nice aroma of dark fruits followed by the 2018 Syrah. A very nice Cabernet Franc finished the presentation.

Ted offered us additional wines for tasting. The 2018 Nosey Neighbour Red was Kens choice; a very enjoyable blend of 1% Merlot, 9% Cab Franc, 7% Syrah, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon.

All in all it was a very enjoyable visit to the winery. We will return in the spring to enjoy their picnic space and sample more of the winery's vintages. Thank you Backyard Winery and Vineyards Liam and Ted.

 

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