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Geography: The southern Okanagan Valley in the area between Oliver and the border is classified as part of the Sonora Desert, which runs south to the Baja Peninsula in Mexico.

Organic: A technique for growing grapes without using chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides or commercial fertilizers.*

Terroir: The Okanagan Valley has five officially recognized sub-regions — Kelowna, Naramata, Okanagan Falls, Golden Mile, and Black Sage/Osoyoos.

Geology: Mt. Boucherie (near Kelowna), home to a number of wineries, is an extinct volcano.

Clone: The mutation of a species. Growers select and propagate clones selected for such desirable qualities as early ripening, vivid flavour and deep colour.*


*Schreiner, John - British Columbia Wine Country, Whitecap Books Ltd., 2003

  
 
 

Intimidating, isn't it? All those books and wine experts telling you exactly which wine must go with which dish, as if one false move could completely destroy an entire meal.

Don't believe it. The only one rule about matching food and wine that deserves to be carved in stone is: THERE ARE NO RULES. So relax. Experiment. Enjoy yourself. Isn't that what sitting down to a good meal with wine is all about?

Of course, a little knowledge can be a fascinating thing. Like the first time you try a crisp, dry Riesling with smoked salmon, for example, or an earthy, concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon with rack of lamb and rosemary - all it takes is one terrific match, and you're hooked. You begin to understand how different foods and flavours can bring out the best in a wine, and vice versa.

 

  
© 2006 British Columbia Wine Institute.  All rights reserved.