California dreamin'

Well, here we are in the middle of the Columbia mountains at a heli-ski resort, drinking what we hope is good wine. Tonite and last night we drank 3 bottles of california wine for comparison. There was quite the spread in prices, always interesting to compare wines from similar regions that cost different amounts. We started with Cigare Volant, Bonny Doon vineyards, 2001. This is a Rhone-style blend of grapes, done california style. Usually this is a dependable wine; this vintage was however not up to scratch. It was pleasant enough, very smooth and easy drinking, but the $50 price tag is always in the back of your mind.
The verdict: OK. Certainly nothing special.
Value: POOR!!! would I buy another - not this vintage, no way.

The Sterling 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, NAPA valley, is a little austere but still easy drinking; a classic "low grade" napa cabernet, again nothing special. It was however at least as good as the more expensive cigare volant.
The verdict: OK.
Value: fair at $19. Would I buy another? probably not.

Avalon, NAPA valley Cabernet sauvignon, 2003 was the best of the 3. It was very pleasant, sophisticated, light berry fruit and fine grained tannins.
The verdict: Good.
Value: Good (for california cabernet in canada; I would probably buy australian or chilean for the same $ but get better value).

So, here's hoping we get more ski runs in tommorrow coz today certainly wasn't that thrilling.

Cheers!!