Show 503, December 10, 2022: Pyros Wines from Argentina with Matias Bauza Moreno of Salentein, a WSET Level 3 Sommelier

Matias Bauza Moreno of Pyrus Wines

Pyros Wines is the first world-class wine collection exclusively from Argentina’s unique Pedernal Valley; its beauty, untamed nature, and diverse terroir was an inspiration to the late Mijndert Pon, the founder of Bodegas Salentein, when he visited in 2008. Head Winemaker Paula Gonzalez continues to honor the founder’s legacy and vision since starting at the winery in November 2019, using her talent in every step of the winemaking process, from harvest to bottling.”

“Viticulture began in Pedernal in the mid-1990s and today there are approximately 850 hectares planted in the whole valley. Historically, this region has been devoted to open-field livestock farming. Since 2000, San Juan deemed the town of Pedernal and surrounding area a protected area. In 2007, Valle de Pedernal became an official wine GI (Geographic Indication) in Argentina.”

Representing Pyros Wines with us is Matias Bauza Moreno the PR and Marketing Manager for the Luxury Portfolio of Salentein Valle de Uco the parent of Pyros Wines. “He began working for Bodegas Salentein in 2001 as a Marketing Assistant, right at the time of the winery’s first harvest in the Uco Valley. Over the past 21 years Matias has actively participated in the creation, launching and positioning of most of Salentein’s wine brands in Argentina and around the world. He is proud to have played a role in positioning Salentein to be in the Top 5 most relevant premium wineries in the Argentine market and as the 6th largest wine exporter from Argentina.”

“Today, as a member of Salentein’s Management Team, Matias is the head of PR & Marketing for the entire Luxury Portfolio, including Salentein, Alyda Sparkling and Pyros Wines. He is also part of the R&D team, actively participating with winemakers and agronomists to stay ahead of innovations and trends in wine, terroir, and business sustainability.”

Show 208, January 28, 2017: Sommelier Rachel von Sturmer, Vancouver & Okanagan Valley, B.C.

Rachel CVon SturmerThere is a burgeoning local wine industry in British Columbia. Sommelier Rachel Von Strumer is a passionate wine writer who divides her time between Vancouver and the Okanagan Valley (where 80 per cent of the wine grape plantings in B.C. are located.)

Rachel holds the WSET Diploma, is a Vinitaly Italian Wine Ambassador, a Judge of American and Canadian wines at the International Wine & Spirits Competition. She is also a trained chef.

Rachel is the author of Wine Tripping – Your Guide to the Best Wineries of British Columbia.

“Design your ultimate trip through British Columbia’s gorgeous Okanagan & Similkameen Valley wine country.

Get ready to visit the very best producers, hand-picked for you in each region from Osoyoos to Lake Country.

Explore BC’s hidden gem wineries, and glamorous modern tasting rooms.”

Rachel brought in two representative premium Okanagan wines to sample that pair well with Dim Sum.