Celebrating BC Wine with John Schreiner in his new biography “Goodgrog”

For anyone passionate about British Columbia wines, John Schreiner is a name that resonates deeply. A true icon of our local industry, John’s dedication to chronicling the evolving landscape of BC wine is unparalleled. His regular dispatches offer invaluable insights, and today, we’re taking a moment to highlight some of his recent reports that showcase the vibrancy and innovation within our province’s wine scene, along with a special focus on his latest book.

John consistently brings us the stories behind the bottles, from established pioneers to exciting new ventures. His keen eye and extensive knowledge make his blog a must-read for enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Beyond his regular blog posts, John Schreiner has recently released a captivating new book, “Goodgrog: A Life in Wine and Journalism“. This book chronicles his remarkable life and career, offering a unique perspective on the world of wine and journalism. For over forty years, John has been a tireless advocate for Canadian wines, entertaining and informing countless wine drinkers through his newspaper and magazine articles, columns, and nineteen books.

His extensive research for “Goodgrog” has taken him to wineries across British Columbia, Canada, the US, Europe, South America, Australia, and New Zealand, and he has also served as a judge at prestigious wine competitions in Italy and British Columbia. But “Goodgrog” is more than just a wine writer’s memoir; it’s a journey that begins in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, where he was born during the Depression. From there, he takes readers through his career as a journalist at the Regina Leader-Post and the Financial Post, where he covered significant business stories in Western Canada and traveled the world reporting on economic matters.

“Goodgrog” is filled with engaging anecdotes from both his private and professional life, interwoven with stories about the Canadian wine industry and some of British Columbia’s most colorful politicians and business leaders. This book is truly “good to the last drop,” offering a comprehensive and personal look at a life dedicated to wine and words.

John Schreiner on Wine: The Blog

As mentioned, John’s prolific writing is also available online. Here are some of John’s recent posts that have caught our attention, offering a glimpse into the diverse world of BC wines:

Ailm intends to challenge Champagne with Okanagan sparkling wines: John reports on the launch of Ailm Estate, the newest sparkling wine venture from the Stewart family of Quails’ Gate Estate Winery. Despite the 2023 and 2024 freezes, the East Kelowna project is “shooting high” with traditional method sparkling wines and aims to compete with the world’s best. Read the original post here: Ailm intends to challenge Champagne with Okanagan sparkling wines

Rust Winery plans to winter-proof its vineyards: Following the devastating January 2024 freeze, John details how Rust Wine Co. is adapting its portfolio by replacing damaged varietals like Syrah and Zinfandel with hardier Alpine red varieties, including Sangiovese and Mondeuse, as a way of “future proofing” their vineyards. You can read his full report here: Rust Winery plans to winter-proof its vineyards

Mt. Boucherie plants Mondeuse and Trousseau vines: John provides an update on Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery’s response to the 2024 freeze, which includes pivoting their planting strategy. The winery is introducing new, rare-for-the-Okanagan varietals like Mondeuse and Trousseau, alongside the release of their new flagship white blend, White Summit. Discover more about this intriguing strategy: Mt. Boucherie plants Mondeuse and Trousseau vines

Noble Ridge is in a mood to celebrate: Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery is celebrating a revival of wine touring and a better-than-expected recovery of their Okanagan Falls vineyards from the 2024 freeze, now forecasting about 65% of a typical crop.The winery is promoting its sparkling wines, including: Noble Ridge The Pink One 2020 (92 points), Noble Ridge The One 2018 (94 points), and Noble Ridge The One Grand Reserve 2017 (96 points). Read the original post here: Noble Ridge is in a mood to celebrate

Gehringer Brothers releases 2024 International red wines: John recently delved into the latest offerings from Gehringer Brothers, highlighting their 2024 International red wines. It’s always fascinating to read his take on how wineries adapt and innovate. You can read his full report here: Gehringer Brothers releases 2024 International red wines

Evolve sparkling wine cellar complements Penticton’s Chronos: In this post, John explored the sparkling wine cellar at Evolve, and how it complements Penticton’s Chronos, illustrating the growing sophistication of BC’s sparkling wine production. Read his insights here: Evolve sparkling wine cellar complements Penticton’s Chronos

Moon Curser’s new owners inherited excellent wines: John shared news about the new ownership at Moon Curser and the excellent wines they’ve inherited, a testament to the enduring quality of BC’s vineyards. Learn more about this transition: Moon Curser’s new owners inherited excellent wines

At Blasted Church, Hell Froze Over in 2024 but not Horse Heaven Hills: This engaging post details how Blasted Church Vineyards navigated the challenging 2024 vintage, including sourcing grapes from Washington State’s Horse Heaven Hills. It’s a fascinating look at the resilience and adaptability of BC wineries. You can find the full story here: At Blasted Church, Hell Froze Over in 2024 but not Horse Heaven Hills

Little Engine Wines launches new wine series: John reported on Little Engine Wines’ new Elevation Series, offering more accessible yet high-quality wines. This highlights the industry’s continuous efforts to innovate and cater to diverse palates. Read about their new offerings: Little Engine Wines launches new wine series

Bartier Bros.: strategies to stay in business: In this insightful piece, John explores the strategies employed by Bartier Bros. to remain successful in the dynamic BC wine market. It’s a valuable read for understanding the business side of winemaking: Bartier Bros.: strategies to stay in business

Thank you, John!

John Schreiner’s dedication to the BC wine industry provides us with a continuous stream of valuable information and engaging stories. His work is a vital resource for understanding the nuances and developments in our local wine scene. We look forward to his continued contributions and highly recommend following his blog and picking up a copy of “Goodgrog” for the latest in BC wine.

Author

  • Mike Klassen is a Vancouver city councillor, communications professional, and long-time advocate for British Columbia’s wine industry. He co‑founded BC Wine Lover in 2007 with his wife Stacey, sharing stories from their travels through the province’s wine regions and spotlighting the people and places that make B.C. wine distinctive.

    In 2015, Mike led the BC Wine Appellation Task Group, guiding a province‑wide consultation that produced recommendations—later endorsed by industry plebiscite—that strengthened B.C.’s appellation standards and helped establish today’s sub‑GIs.

    His writing has appeared in the Vancouver Sun, Huffington Post, and Daily Hive, blending history, policy insight, and personal experience. Alongside his work on Vancouver City Council, Mike continues to explore vineyards across the province, champion local producers, and celebrate the evolving culture of B.C. wine.