Cookin’ on the Coast – Season 13, Episode 5:
Blue Grouse Chardonnay with Roasted Turkey Dinner
In Episode #5 of Cookin’ on the Coast, we’re celebrating a true Cowichan Valley classic — Blue Grouse Chardonnay. Crafted entirely from estate-grown fruit and aged 11 months in French oak, this wine captures the essence of Vancouver Island’s unique coastal terroir.
Expect aromas of lemon zest, toasted almond, and marzipan, unfolding into a bright, layered palate with a crisp, toasty minerality that speaks to the Cowichan Valley’s cool-climate charm. With its balanced acidity and creamy texture, this Chardonnay brings elegance and depth to the table — the perfect match for a comforting roasted turkey dinner.
At the heart of Blue Grouse’s philosophy is stewardship — the belief that every part of the winemaking process should leave the land, the people, and the product better than before. This philosophy shapes every part of their process, from the way they care for their team and land to the thoughtful, sustainable practices in their vineyard and cellar.
The 2023 vintage marks a milestone for Blue Grouse: the first harvest of their estate-grown Chardonnay. Despite the youth of these vines, the wine already shows remarkable promise, with concentrated flavours and a refined balance that will only deepen in vintages to come. Through patience, precision, and respect for the land, Blue Grouse continues to define what makes Cowichan Valley wines so distinctive.
Head to a Liquor Plus liquor store near you to pickup the Blue Grouse Chardonnay.
In this episode, Chef Heidi prepares a show-stopping roasted turkey dinner — a celebration of classic technique, balanced seasoning, and simple, confident cooking. The turkey is generously salted, brushed with clarified butter, and infused with aromatic onion, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. Roasted to perfection, it emerges with golden, crackling skin and juicy, tender meat — the kind of centrepiece that defines a true holiday feast!
Paired with Blue Grouse Chardonnay, the result is timeless comfort elevated by elegant craftsmanship. The wine’s bright acidity and citrus notes cut through the richness of the turkey, while its creamy texture and subtle oak echo the savoury depth of the roasted skin and herbs. Hints of toasted almond and marzipan mirror the warmth of the meal, creating a harmony of flavours that feels both festive and refined.
Together, this pairing captures the spirit of the Cowichan Valley — thoughtful, balanced, and deeply rooted in the connection between land and table.
Grab the recipes below and all the ingredients at your local Country Grocer:
Liquor Plus Sponsors Cookin’ on the Coast
Each week, Liquor Plus sponsors the Pairings segment of Cookin’ on the Coast on CHEK. The show features unique food and drink pairings offered by BC suppliers, with recipes created by Chef Heidi Fink and sponsored by Country Grocer. All of the beverages featured on the program can be found in Liquor Plus stores across Vancouver Island.
