Can we call it the start of patio season, please?
I was recently inspired by a couple of patios: first, to see Kim Mitchell at Cedar Creek Estate Winery, he of Patio Lanterns fame, and then to see Jim Cuddy and Barney Bentall at Lake Breeze Vineyards to celebrate the winery's 20th anniversary.
So, in honour of those classic Canadian rockers, and the impending performance of Chilliwack at the Penticton Peach Festival, here are my suggestions for libations, paired with a classic cancon tune. Hopefully enjoyed on a patio.
Summer of '69, Bryan Adams: the video is cheezy. There's a drive-in movie and heartbreak. Time for a classic caesar cocktail or two. Mix it up with a local vodka. Add Canadian bacon on a stir stick.
Never Too Hot, Alanis Morisette: her first hit, featuring big hair and bad dancing. Assuming it is too hot one day, and in honour of the bold hairstyle, cool down a big white for sipping. Perhaps a weighty viognier.
Heart of Gold, Neil Young: Chardonnay, with its golden hue and oaky aged boldness seems to be the perfect match.
Standing in the Dark, Platinum Blonde: two choices, a pale or blond ale for their 1980s back-combed blonde hair, or a dark lager for the song.
Takin' Care of Business, Bachman Turner Overdrive: memories of liquid lunches scream martini, or straight up local gin over ice.
Courage, The Tragically Hip: as their farewell tour hits the road, I say grab the nearest Okanagan bubbly, and raise a glass to Gord Downie. Then have a rum and coke in honour of his book, Coke Machine Glow.
Save The Date:
July 29, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards: Starlit Super, dine under the stars while enjoying a multicourse dinner. Telescopes will be available for stargazing. www.tinhorn.com
Thursday evenings, Kaleden: Flambé Catering hosts BBQ nights at 6pm, Thursdays, all summer. Buffet dinner, live music, drink specials at the 1912. Call or text 250-486-8939 to reserve.
August 13, Black Hills Estate Winery: A Midsummer Night's Dream III, featuring the live water ballet of the Aqualillies, as the Wine Experience Center is converted into a Miami-inspired Vineyard Ultralounge. www.blackhillswinery.com
September 3, Meyer Family Vineyard: Meyer Family Vineyards partners with Joy Road Catering for an interactive evening of terroir focused food and wine accompanied by the sounds of local artists Tavis Weir Trio. www.mfvwines.com
September 18, Penticton: Small, artisan wine producers gather in Penticton for Garagiste North. Sample wines that are hard to find, made by the small guys. www.garagistenorth.com
Allison Markin is the food and libations columnist for the Penticton Western News. She can be reached at Allison@AllSheWrote.ca and on Twitter @OkanaganTaste.