From Ontario to Oceania to the Okanagan Valley, Jeff Del Nin’s knack for chemistry gave way to a penchant for viticulture that has followed him to each new pursuit. Now, as winemaker at BC’s Road 13 Vineyards, his technical background (a Masters degree from Queen’s University followed by oenology studies in Australia) is already informing his first vintage at the helm.
The chance to express the unique terroir of South Okanagan Valley’s revered Golden Mile region is bound to be a challenging yet golden opportunity for Del Nin to shine. Vineyard owners Mick and Pam Luckhurst run the winery based on a driving philosophy: “it’s all about the dirt.” Since joining the Road 13 team in August, Del Nin has risen to this mission and continues to discover ways to marry it with his own winemaking values. The rocky, mineral-rich soil beneath the valley continues to yield uncommon North American varietals, and the slopes’ healthy cold air drainage will come in handy throughout a (so far) notably frosty winter 2016.
As he gears up for the remainder of the cold season, what’s at the top of Del Nin’s mind and what’s at the front of his personal beverage collection? We talk Caribbean rum and sparkling Shiraz dreams.
1) Which of your own current offerings are you digging the most?
I joined Road 13 as winemaker in August. It has been a journey of discovery for me, with several new varietals and wine blends really impressing me. I would have to say my favorite wines at the moment are the Road 13 GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) and also the Old Vines Chenin Blanc. These wine styles are virtually unknown in BC and North America, and I think the climate in the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys creates some fabulous and unique versions of these wines.
2) Any winemaking pipe dreams you’re dying to make a reality?
Road 13 has really focused on the Rhône varietals and there are many different expressions of Syrah. One expression that is lacking, however, is a sparkling wine like the decadent and delicious sparkling Shiraz wines made in Australia. I lived in Australia for 10 years and the style of wine I miss the most [are those]. It would be incredible if we could make a sparkling Syrah at Road 13, even if I’m the only one that drinks it!
3) What non-wine beverage is in your glass most these days? What is your favorite way to enjoy it and where?
My favorite non-wine beverage is a collection of Caribbean rums. In particular, there is a rum called Plantation XO Barbados 20th Anniversary and it is my current favorite because of its complexity and harmonious expression. I drink it neat or over a small ice cube with my friends, after a nice meal, or when I want to sit and reflect on how I plan to take over the world.
4) Favorite song, album or artist to jam out to while throwing a few down the hatch?
It has been said that life is too short to drink bad wine. The same can be said for music, which is why I love Bruce Springsteen’s “Darkness On The Edge of Town” and “The Very Best of The Doobie Brothers.”
