Steller's Jay Goes Gold

SUMMERLAND, BC, Oct. 9, 2013

SUMMERLAND, BC, Oct. 9, 2013 /CNW/ - In a year already notable as the one in which Steller's Jay Brut got its stand-alone label, B.C.'s signature bubbles have now brought a shining new honour back to the coop. Today, the 2008 Vintage Brut has been announced as a Gold Winner at the prestigious 2013 InterVin International Wine Awards.

Adjudicated against some of the world's best sparkling wines by a judging team of winemakers, wine writers and sommeliers, the 2008 Steller's Jay Brut scored high marks.  The popular B.C. sparkler was one of only two Gold Medal winners in the category of nearly 50 entries, and the only traditional method sparkling bubble to strike gold.

Layered flavours of nut and berry followed by a creamy finish give this sparkling Brut fresh mouthfeel and flavour. It begins in mid- to late-September, when premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes are picked, followed closely by the Pinot Blanc. The early harvesting is what gives this method classique Brut crisp acidity, while the three years it is left "en tirage" in the winery lend it a complexity that makes it a perfect match for a variety of foods, or as a sparkling sipper enjoyed all on its own.

"We are thrilled with this award and are proud to recognized as an industry leader," says winemaker Jason James.  It's exciting. The sparkling culture is changing; the way people think about sparkling is evolving to include 'every day' moments, as well as those special occasions.  It's always a good time for bubbles."

Now in its fifth year, the InterVin International Wine Awards bring prominent Canadian winemakers, wine writers and sommeliers together to judge the best of international and local wines.  Led by Head Judge, co-founder and editor of VINES Magazine, Christopher Waters, the panel spent hours tasting, debating, and reviewing the candidates against extremely high criteria. The awards have become a leading competition for both international and home grown wines available in Canada.

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