Presently, most of us are in lockdown and facing the daily struggle to keep sane and upbeat. While bog-roll and bread seem to be highlighted shopping shelf targets in such times, I am sure that bottle shops are getting their weekly work over too.
In an effort to find more ways to celebrate in lockdown life, I have started to notice an increasing number of national and international “wine days”.
Other than a little planning to ensure you have the right bottle at hand, celebrating these ‘events’ might be just one tiny piece of the puzzle to help us get through the other side. This week we look at some wine events that we can mark on our calendars, starting with what’s closest to us, of course.
The 30th of August is International Cabernet Day. What are a few days between friends? We have some cracking Cabernets in the Yass Valley region, so grab yourself a bottle along with a quality cut of steak and make sure you celebrate cool climate Cabernet in style.
The 17th of September is International Grenache Day. Grenache is a variety native to Spain, but we make some excellent drops in this country. From the warmer climes of the McLaren Vale and the Barossa to our own backyard.
Just the trick to celebrate the first BBQ of the season.
The 22nd of October is Champagne Day. There are some reasonably priced French Champagnes these days, but we also make some cracking Sparkling wines here in the Yass Valley region. In addition, the Spring Racing Carnival will be in full swing, so tip & tipple to your heart’s content.
November 7th is International Merlot Day. Choose a cool climate Merlot from Yass Valley, the King Valley or the more temperate Margaret River. These can be sublime drops and just the thing if you want to ‘test-drive’ the roast turkey before the festive season.
February 5th 2022, is Rosé Day. Rosé has made a big play in the public popularity stakes, and many winemakers are turning their hands to elegant, refined and refreshing drops. Throw a “pinky” on ice and serve with smoked or BBQ’d salmon.
The 13th of March is International Riesling Day. Don’t go past our own backyard – the Yass Valley produces some of Australia’s best “rizzas” – full of citrus zing and florally fragrant.
The 6th and 17th of May are Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris Days, respectively.
And last but certainly not least, the 28th of July is International Shiraz Day. Shiraz, or Syrah, has made the Yass Valley region its cool-climate home, producing wines that express elegance and a sense of place. This will be one day you definitely need to celebrate, hopefully out of lockdown.
Cheers!
Brent Lello,
Yass Valley Times Wine Columnist
File image at top: Andrew Dodds – local wine stockist and owner of cafe & emporium Thyme to Taste
Photo credit Jasmin Jones
