Neal McLennan

2 weeks ago | westernliving.ca | Neal McLennan

There’s something trite about getting Pop a bottle of something for Father’s Day, but part of the reason it’s so well trod is that, when done right, it’s a really good gift. A chance to either let him indulge in something he wouldn’t normally splurge on or introduce him to a maker that may soon become one of his go-tos. So with that in mind here’s three bottles chosen to nail the unexpected.

3 weeks ago | vanmag.com | Neal McLennan

Martin’s Lane Simes Vineyard 2022 $65A few weeks back was the Top Drop wine festival—and every year when both it and the Vancouver International Wine Festival roll around—we’re emphatic about the opportunities they present to expand both your knowledge and palate, because as great as enjoying a glass at home is, nothing pushes the envelope like comparative tasting, seeing how you respond to certain styles, certain producers and regions et al.

Sep 6, 2024 | l8r.it | Neal McLennan

Wine peeps are among the secretly most judgy folks around. The big Cab folks make jokes about the flaws the natty wine kids endure, the Burgundy lovers are dismissive of the boldness of Cali Pinot, the low intervention group shudder at the high intervention of Argentine Malbec. Oh and Meoimi – you’re either hard for or hard against. But one of the few things everyone who cares about wine can agree on—the greatness of Krug. Seriously.

Aug 15, 2024 | l8r.it | Neal McLennan

You know the rub: after months of back-and-forth the big deal has closed and the boss wants you to choose a spot to celebrate; or maybe you’ve been working late for weeks and your anniversary has suddenly crept up on you.

Jul 25, 2024 | l8r.it | Neal McLennan

Let’s start with the bad news: British Columbians live in a terrible jurisdiction for collecting wine. The combination of our high taxes and a government monopoly means we have the double whammy of limited selection and steep prices—not exactly Warren Buffett territory. And your ability to bring wine into the province from more liberal wine neighbours to the south is curtailed by insanely punitive duty‚ the highest in Canada.