Ground Hog Day And Cabernet Sauvignon

On February 2, the spotlights on celebrity groundhogs: Ontario’s Wiarton Willie, Nova Scotia’s Shubenacadie Sam or Pennsylvania’s Punxsutawney Phil. Peeking out of their burrows, if they see their shadow, it means winter will continue for six weeks. No shadow means an early spring. Either way, there’s plenty of time to enjoy a flavourful Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington State’s Columbia River growing region.

Nicole Walsh is the star winemaker of Skyfall vineyards who spent nearly two decades honing her skills while working for California’s iconic Bonny Doon Vineyard. As a respected leader in the Women Owned Winery Movement, she is a winemaker in pursuit of making wines true to terroir that showcase the quality of Washington State’s grapes. The name Skyfall references the rugged boulders scattered around the vineyard of the same name. They look like meteorites that have fallen from the heavens. The bold, colourful label shows Mother Nature emerging from the natural environment. This is the same as Skyfall wines emerging from Washington to express all its elements, from each vintage’s weather to the thousands of years of geological history. An intriguing blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Syrah, the subtle upfront fruit emphasizes blackcurrant, plum and cedar notes supported by soft tannins while finishing off with a balancing, refreshing acidity.    

Lamb is rich and fatty. It’s also slightly sweet. Skyfall Cabernet Sauvignon’s acidity and tannins will cut through the fat, keeping it from coating one’s palate, while the tannins help balance the subtle sweetness. The wine's fruit flavours will complement the richness of the meat beautifully. Try cooking the lamb with rosemary and thyme. These pungent, earthy notes complement Cabernet Sauvignon’s natural qualities and are certain to enhance the dining experience.

2020 Skyfall Washington Cabernet Sauvignon LCBO #26508, $18.95.