Gray Monk - Gewurztraminer

Gewurztraminer is currently one of my favourite varietals. It's slightly sweet, can have a subtle hints of peach, lychee, and even a little melon. It blends well with Riesling (which I find a bit syrupy at times). And it can grow well in British Columbian soil. Which brings me to this week's lovely bottle from Gray Monk, a little ways outside of Kelowna.

I've never had the pleasure of visiting their winery, but my experience with their Gewurztraminer has been superb. Side note, as I'm writing this, an editorial intern just brought me a glass of champagne (the real stuff, too). Not a bad way to end the day! I suppose the wine gods knew I needed some helpful inspiration...

While I'm not currently holding a glass of Gray Monk, it is one of my go-to gift wines (when I'm not trying to greatly impress anyone), such as when my married friends invite me over. They know I don't have a ton of money (it's at a modest $17), I know they aren't particularly snobby when it comes to booze. It's a win-win.

So the next time you hit the liquor store, pick a bottle of Gray Monk and keep it on hand for when surprise summer guests come knocking on you door. Or maybe you should just crack it open tonight.