I’ll admit it: I have to work hard to enjoy winter in Nova Scotia. Unlike avid skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts, it just doesn’t come naturally to me. That said, there’s a lot to be said for embracing this cozy time of year. From crisp walks in the fresh air with fluffy snow all over the trees to warm evenings spent by the wood stove, winter truly is a time of contrasts. Maybe we need the cold, dark days so that we can truly appreciate an evening spent wining and dining with friends or an evening curled up with Netflix?
What we eat and what we drink also contributes to our feelings of coziness in the dead of winter. Below you’ll find some suggestions for warming up this winter with Bishop’s Cellar. You can also check out our staff’s latest picks here for more ideas!
Finally, we might be known around town for selling rare finds and special wines, but did you know that we’ve also got over 250 wines that are under $25? That’s a lot of amazing, value wines in one little shop. Funds can be a little tight this time of year, so let’s talk about wines that offer whole lot, without breaking the bank.
When it comes to rich, filling winter menus (gotta fuel that shovelling!) sometimes you need to match with rich, filling wines. Try the Cattin Pinot Gris Reserve with your next charcuterie board or roast pork. Alternatively, try a rich and full Chardonnay like California’s Raymond Collection Chardonnay with your next roast chicken or baked fish. Warm up your next evening with friends with a bold, full style from Australia like the Longview Red Bucket Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon– crowd pleasing AND easy drinking from Australia’s Adelaide Hills.
If you’re looking for quality on a budget, you can’t go wrong with some of our latest Spanish offerings. I’m loving the deeper, darker expressions of Spanish grapes like Domeco Jarauta Sancho Baron and the ever-delicious Embocadero. On the other hand, I’m especially enjoying Gotin Del Risc’s Godello and Mencia because they taste a little like Spring in the bottle.
On the beer side of things, I’m all about more flavourful styles during the winter months. I especially can’t get enough of North Brewing’s Belgian Milk Stout and the classic stylings of Anchor Brewing Porter.
Finally, if Spirits are more your thing, you’ll be happy to know that we’ve got Booker’s Bourbon and Baker’s Bourbon back on our shelves, along with some other great labels! I love the taste of bourbon in a cocktail, especially on a cold winter’s night. For a special and aromatic treat, crack open a bottle of Diplomatico Exclusiva 12 year.
No matter what you sip this winter, stay cosy Nova Scotia.