Wine Guy: Spooky wines

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While pumpkin beers are getting all the play these days, it is important to note that they are not the only Halloween-worthy potables.

There was a time, not that long ago, when adult trick-or-treaters relied on spooky wines to set the Halloween mood. So with this in mind — and in consideration that many may be celebrating All Hallows’ Eve early with gatherings this weekend — here are three tasty bottles with ghastly appeal.

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Casillero del Diablo 2018 Reserva Sauvignon Blanc, Chile ($11.99 on sale until Oct. 26, #578641)

Legend has it that the Devil’s Cellar, which is located in the heart of Concha y Toro’s historic winery in Chile’s Maipo Valley, is haunted. Of course, the legend was devised more than 100 years ago by founder Don Melchor de Concha y Toro to scare off bottle thieves. Thus there’s nothing truly scary about Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc. Actually, it’s quite a friendly wine, with an aromatic nose of citrus and tropical fruit leading to an easygoing, fresh enough finish. Indeed it’s ready to please a ghoulish crowd, ideally alongside puff pastry canapés and cheese plates.

Bottom line: B-, Crowd pleaser

Sangre de Toro 2017 Original, Spain ($15.99, #6585)

Nothing like a little blood to infuse the Halloween spirit, especially when it’s Bull’s Blood, or “Sangre de Toro,” in the wine glass. The name reputedly comes from the god of wine, Bacchus, who was likened to be as powerful as a bull with wine for blood — though it’s more fun to imagine it pours the colour of bull’s blood. Regardless, this blend of Garnacha and Cariñena is a classic that still sports a plastic bull around the bottle neck! It’s a well-rounded red showing ripe berry with a smooth flavour profile, complemented by a hint of vanilla and spice on a plush finish.

Bottom line: B, Pairs well with handing out candy

FullGlass Wines 2017 Skulls Shiraz, Australia ($19.49 on sale until Oct. 26, #172825)

Finally, here’s your pick if you’re the type that feels a dark, brooding night deserves an equally deep and mysterious red, or if you simply lean to rich, robust, and opulent Shiraz. The bottle’s trippy, eerie label is equally on point. Pouring a glossy dark garnet, Skulls oozes aromas of dark fruit, vanilla, and herbs. The wine is fruity and dense, almost chewy at first, with gritty tannins building on a balanced finish. Try serving this on a rainy night with a good book and a warming fire, or with a big bowl of truffled popcorn and a scary movie.

Bottom line: B, Awesome label, full-on wine

The Swirl: Taste of Cowichan

The Taste of Cowichan promises an “Evening of tastings, entertainment, and great company.” Taking place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 1 on the water at Brentwood College in Mill Bay, the event serves as the launch party for Tourism Cowichan’s month-long Eat. Stay. Play campaign. The night offers an opportunity to meet local makers and sip, sample, and taste their wares: from cider to tea, beer to wine, and lots more! Tickets are $39, and full details can be found at tourismcowichan.com.