Strange times call for inspiration and a generous nod towards fun and the future. Never before have I witnessed the colliding of time and place so beautifully reimagined than by the Okanagan Crush Pad‘s new label, ‘Bizou + Yukon.’

Sister and brother Great Pyrenees dog’s Bizou and Yukon are the mascots for this incredibly whimsical and a bit out of this world label. Three wines complete the line up: Savvy Gris (a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris), Pinkie Rosé (many varieties) and Savvy Franc, a combination of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

The Okanagan Crush Pad owners, Christine Coletta and Steve Lornie make it look so simple. Yet, we know that there is so much more to the story than meets the eye.

This is a story about the future. About how Coletta and Lornie are restoring what is natural in the 300 plus acre project, “The Ranch is about balancing our need for productive vineyard land with the native surroundings. We want to do our best to not interfere with the wildlife that calls the site home,” says Christine Coletta, Owner, Okanagan Crush Pad. The vastness of this exceptional land includes a fenced-off vineyard area, wetlands, wild fields, wildlife corridors, eight acres of organic vegetables, a flock of sheep and hayfields. I so want to see this! 

And, watching over this unique project is Bizou and Yukon. The Great Pyrenees are a proven and trusted working dog breed and are vigilant guardians over that which they are tasked with. They look like scruffy gentle giants, but they are dogs with jobs. Unlike my two Labrador Retrievers, Muriel and Murphy Brown, whose focus in life is a daily walk, morning snuggles, being fed, snoozing and being fed again.

Tasting Notes:

• Savvy Gris – this is is a zippy blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. The flavour profile lands more in the grassy, citrus profile of Sauvignon Blanc and the Pinot Gris adds depth and character. Zippy and charming. $21.90
• Pinkie Rosé – a blend of several varieties, this Rosé is bursting with fresh red fruit flavours and a dash of jasmine essence on the finish. Pretty. $21.90
• Savvy Franc – you guessed it, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Flavours of blackberry, hints of cedar and crushed raspberry – I enjoyed how this wine opened up and was smooth and almost creamy the next day. Yum. $23.90

Order these wines by the case at Okanagan Crush Pad – there are twelve labels in all.

Have fun. Enjoy wine. Repeat.