Description
Come to Upstart & Crow on Friday, Sept. 19 to enjoy the sweet and sultry final days of summer with a evening celebrating beautiful B.C. wines and books. Because this place makes exquisite stuff!
Join us for a glass and a hobnob with your fellow readers in our romantic “literary living room.” We’ll be sharing a literary menu that includes our newest favourites from local writers and pairing our picks with the lush wines of Black Sage Vineyard, Nk’Mip Cellars, See Ya Later Ranch and Saintly Wines.
Our book sommeliers are available for tailored recommendations and literary matchmaking. We’re holding two 90-minutes “seatings”, one starting at 6 p.m. and one at 8 p.m. Tickets are $40 (or buy two for $70). Each ticket includes:
- A hearty glass of truly excellent B.C. wine: white, red and sparkling options
- A $25 gift certificate towards Upstart & Crow purchases
- Fun extras like tailored menus with book recommendations
Meet your book sommeliers:
Robyn Smith is the creative and operations director of Upstart & Crow. Michelle Cyca is a freelance journalist and avid library patron. Megan Lau is your resident nonfiction aficionado and culture nerd.
About the wines:
- Black Sage GSM 2022: A blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, aged in barrel for 16 months before being masterfully blended. Aromas of red cherries, ripe strawberries, with an undertone of sweet toastiness and baking spices. The fruit carries on the palate with a delicate balance of acidity and earthiness. The finish persists with pleasant fruit flavours and a hint of toasted spices.
- Nk’Mip Pinot Blanc 2024: In 2024, a severe frost swept through the Okanagan Valley, dramatically reducing the local harvest. In response, Nk’Mip Cellars turned to Washington State, a region rich in both quality and meaning, and part of the traditional territory once travelled by the Syilx people. The vintage may bring subtle differences, but its spirit remains rooted in connection, resilience, and respect for the land both near and far. This Pinot Blanc opens with delicate floral aromatics and bright notes of citrus and green apple. On the palate, it delivers a crisp entry layered with flavours of Granny Smith apple, lemon zest, and subtle mineral undertones.
- See Ya Later Ranch Luna 2024: Luna is a vibrant blend of aromatic white varieties, each harvested at peak freshness. Fermented separately in stainless steel, the components were thoughtfully blended to create a lively, fruit-forward wine with a balanced touch of sweetness and bright acidity. Delicate aromas of green apple, ripe peace, and subtle floral notes rise from the glass, inviting you in. On the palate, it’s bright and refreshing, with juicy fruit flavours that call to mind sun-soaked afternoons and easygoing vibes.
- Saintly Sparkling Rose 2024: Harvested at just the right moment for sparkling perfection, this rosé was cool fermented in stainless steel to lock in freshness and vibrant character. A secondary fermentation adds that signature lively mousse. On the nose, it’s bursting with strawberry, raspberry, peach, and a splash of lime. The palate? Crisp, dry, and textural, with juicy fruit, subtle florals, and a finish that lingers just long enough to tempt another sip.
More about Upstart & Crow:
Located on Granville Island, Upstart & Crow is a literary arts studio for curious readers and creative storytellers alike. We are international in our outlook, and local in our sensibilities. We create opportunities to surface new talent and champion bold ideas through events, workshops, literary launches, unique partnerships — and yes, we also sell books!
Accessibility:
The main studio of our shop is accessible for folks with mobility aids, though there is a small mezzanine with stairs where the bar will be located. Staff will be happy to bring drinks to guests not able to access the mezzanine. All books and merchandise are on the main floor. There is a washroom on the main floor available for attendees.
Capacity:
We have limited each “seating” to 28 to ensure ample space for folks to browse and enjoy. Please reserve your ticket here.
Questions: hello@upstartandcrow.com.
