Food & Wine Trails - March/April 2018

Food &

WINE TRAILS

w w w. w i n e t r a i l s . c a British Columbia

MARCH | APRIL 2018

INSIDE WINERIES

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RICCO BAMBINO OPENS IN THE HEART OF KELOWNA PA G E 8

WINE EVENTS

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D E S T I N AT I O N O S O Y O O S PRESENTS FRESH APPROACH TO OYSTERS IN THE DESERT PA G E 2 3

A S E X E C U T I V E W I N E R Y C H E F, J E R E M Y L U Y P E N J O I N S S U M M E R H I L L’ S C U L I N A RY R E V O L U T I O N PA G E 2 7

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WINE COUNTRY GUIDE

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OLIVER TINHORN CREEK VINEYARDS

Come Taste BC! DARCY NYBO

If you want to know what BC tastes like, come to Miradoro Restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards. Executive Chef Jeff Van Geest is nothing sort of a maestro in his seethrough kitchen. He’s the kind of chef that goes for a walk, comes back with nettles and puts them on the menu, making them taste delicious.

The restaurant was designed so every seat has a great view. If you chose to sit outside, you may even catch a concert or two going on below in the natural amphitheatre.

Miradoro has a full liquor license and only serves BC-made beer, gin, vodka, whiskey, BC wines and their own wines, including library vintages.

Give yourself plenty of time when you plan your visit to Miradoro. This is the place where time slows down as your senses awaken to the bounty before you. It’s here you’ll find great views, fantastic wines and dishes that will make your mouth sing.

To start, try the house-made charcuterie plate, perfect for sharing, and served on a repurposed barrelhead. The main courses are all expertly prepared and sure to delight even the pickiest of palates. The dessert menu is just as impressive as the main course selection. Take your time and enjoy the views while you peruse the menu.

Can’t decide what to have? No worries — the chef offers a two-course lunch or a grand tasting. For dinner, the chef will prepare a five-course tasting menu. In March, you can create your own!

Reservations are required for dining and events. Call 250-498-3742 or make them online at tinhorn.com.

Here are some of the upcoming events at Miradoro this spring.

EASTER BRUNCH Sunday, April 1 from 11 am to 3 pm come and celebrate the arrival of spring with a delicious two-course Easter Brunch at Miradoro. There’s even a complimentary Easter egg hunt at Tinhorn Creek at 1:30 pm.

Brunch is $25 per person and includes: house made yogurt, stewed fruit, puffed wild rice granola, Jack’s honey, poached farm fresh eggs, patatas bravas, sesame flat bread with grilled chorizo, Spanish blood sausage or grilled asparagus or wild nettle, pancetta and egg pizza with smoked mozzarella and tomato sauce.

THE COMMUNAL ROSÉ AND TAPAS TABLE The ever popular Long Table Dinners are back, bringing locals and visitors together to celebrate regional food and wine. Dinners feature fare that is local, rustic, simple, straightforward and seasonal. Held at Miradoro Restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards at 6:30 pm on Tuesdays from April to May and Oct. to Dec. Only $35 per person. Check online for each week’s themes and to make reservations.

On April 28, it’s time for Yes Way Rosé!

Kick off patio season with live music and delicious tapas and rosé wines from 1 to 4 pm.

Tapas includes: roasted olives, grilled carrots with harissa and pistachio, sourdough fried oyster mushrooms and preserved lemon espelette aioli, herring escabeche, chorizo-stuffed dates with local honey, pork crackling with ras al hanout nostrala with membrillo, glazed pork belly, salted cucumber and squid ink pappas arugadas with seaweed salsa verde.

GUEST CHEF DINNER

STARLIT SUPPER

On May 4 at 6:30 pm come to Miradoro for Pathways to Reconciliation. This dinner features the modern indigenous cuisine of Rich Francis, Chef Owner of Seventh Fire Hospitality Group and Co-Producer and Host of Red Chef Revival, Finalist Top Chef Canada.

Enjoy an evening of exceptional food and wine as part of the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival. Chef Jeff Van Geest invites Chef Rich Francis into the Miradoro kitchen to partner on a delicious and unique multi-course gourmet dinner paired with Tinhorn Creek wines. Tickets $95 + GST available from Miradoro Restaurant.

Mark Friday July 13 at 7:30 pm on your calendar.

Come experience the annual outdoor starlit supper as the moon rises over the mountains.

Dine under the stars while enjoying a multi-course dinner

by Miradoro paired with Tinhorn Creek wines and served in the amphitheatre.

Royal Astronomical Society telescopes are available for stargazing on the night. Tickets $125 + GST available online and from the winery. Price includes dinner, wine and gratuities.

WWW.WINETRAILS.CA

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KELOWNA

TERRAFINA AT HESTER CREEK BY RAUDZ: On the Golden Mile Bench in Oliver, as spring pokes her head through the vineyards, the Italian-inspired cuisine of Terrafina at Hester Creek by RauDZ returns to delight locals and visitors alike.

Meaning “from the earth,” Terrafina is a stunning Tuscan-style restaurant nestled among some of the oldest vines in the South Okanagan. This year is the 50th anniversary of the estate vineyards of Hester Creek.

Capture the true essence of the Okanagan’s seasons on your plate and palate in this fine setting of 105 acres of Mediterraneaninfluenced grounds.

Hester Creek wines star on the wine list with many selections available by the glass and by the bottle. A feature called “The Jury

Spring at Long Last

Selection” is a flight of three, three-ounce pours. For White, it is Pinot Gris, Character White and Chardonnay, while for Red, it is Merlot, Character Red and Cabernet Franc.

If you want to immerse yourself in the Italian dining experience, you can choose from the Italian wine list.

The menu is refreshed with an expansion of the pizza offerings to include a Calzone.

For spring, it’s Tuscan Sausage and Artichoke pizza with olive, goat feta and mozzarella.

Don’t worry, the Potato and Truffle pizza remains because Terrafina’s team cares about the cravings of its fans. Returning, too, is the popular Build Your Own Board, which debuted last season. It now boasts 18 items from which to choose to create your own personalized tasting sensation.

Famous Italian director Federico Fellini said, “Life is a combination of magic and pasta.” At Terrafina you can look forward to a little magic each day as Chef de Cuisine Jenna Pillon features an inspired daily lunch pasta special.

In addition to lunch and dinner menus, Sunday Brunch starts in May. Hours of operation for the spring season, February 14 to April 31, are 11:30 am to 9 pm, Wednesday to Saturday, with Happy Hour from 3 to 5 pm. To view the menus created by the culinary team of RauDZ Creative Concepts — including Chef Rod Butters, Executive Chef Brock Bowes and Chef Jenna Pillon visit terrafinarestaurant.com. Buon appetito!

ROSLYNE BUCHANAN

In other exciting news, Chef Butters was announced as the 10th Hokanson Chef in Residence at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) Culinary Program, March 12 to 16. The residence was developed to provide NAIT students with a rare opportunity to learn firsthand from the best chefs in North America. Past chefs included Rob Feenie, David Adjey, Susur Lee, Massimo Capra, Chris Cosentino, Lynn Crawford, Michael Stadtländer, Vikram Vij and Amanda Cohen.

Looking forward to this career highlight, Chef Butters commented, “It’s an amazing lineup of previous chefs who have been involved. Many of them are friends and I’m humbled to be included.”

www.sunnysmoderndiner.com

www.raudz.com

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www.microkelowna.com

www.chefrodbutters.com

www.terrafinarestaurant.com

Editor ’s Note March/April 2018

CO N T E N T S

Welcome to the end of winter! My name is Darcy and I’m the new editor for Wine Trails. With the snow gone, we are more than ready for another great year of food and wine. It’s also a great time to plan your adventures to the many wine growing areas we have right here in BC. Winemakers continue to come up with new vintages to please the palate in the well-established regions of the Okanagan, Similkameen, Fraser Valley, Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island. They are ready for you to come and try their latest and greatest vintages.

The areas where wine is grown in BC are slowly transforming the way we think about wine regions in BC. Kamloops, in the Thompson Valley, is an emerging region with several diverse micro climates. The wines you find there may give you a pleasant surprise. The Shuswap has produced some delicious new wines and up in Prince George there’s a new fruit winery. There are also some distinctive small batch wineries causing quite the stir in the Creston Valley. No matter where you go, you’re likely to find some imaginative winemakers creating remarkable wines in places we never expected.

As you travel BC this year, make sure you take the time to get to know the area and the people that live there. There’s nothing like the inside scoop, so talk to the locals, find out what they love, and then check it out.

Darcy Nybo

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WINE EVENTS

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WINE COUNTRY GUIDE

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SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2017

J U LY | A U G U S T 2 0 1 7

WINERIES

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WINE TRAILS w w w. w i n e t r a i l s . c a British Columbia M AY | J U N E 2 0 1 7

w w w. w i n e t r a i l s . c a British Columbia

RauDZ.......................................................... 4 Calona Wines............................................... 7 Ricco Bambino............................................. 8 Volcanic Hills Estate Winery...................... 10 Ciao Bella.................................................. 10 Summerland Estate Winery....................... 11

Find any Wine Trail edition online at www.winetrails.ca WINERIES

Tinhorn Creek Estate Winery...................... 3

Vanilla Pod Restaurant.............................. 12 Naramata Bench........................................ 13 On the Cover............................................. 13

INSIDE

Legends

WINEMAKER SEVERINE PINTE

INSIDE

RIEDEL GLASSWARE REVOLUTION PA G E 4 2

CRESCENT HILL W I N E R Y: H I S T O RY I N A B O T T L E PA G E 1 9

Red Rooster Winery.................................. 14

A NEW CHAPTER AT D ’ A N G E L O E S TAT E W I N E R Y WILD GOOSE SCORES A H AT T R I C K EXPLORE THE SHUSWAP

PA G E 1 7

GARAGISTE NORTH WINE F E S T I VA L A CIDER FOR EACH S E A S O N AT T H E V I E W W I N E RY PA G E 3 7

INTRODUCING:

Culmina Family Estate Winery................... 17

RUST WINE CO. PA G E 7

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WINE TRAILS 2495 Enterprise Way, Kelowna, B.C. V1X 6X2 Tel: (250) 763-3212 Fax: (250) 862-5275 winetrails@blackpress.ca

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River Stone Estate Winery........................ 18 Hidden Chapel Winery.............................. 18 Hester Creek Estate Winery...................... 19 Oliver Twist Estate Winery........................ 20 Gehringer Bros Estate Winery.................. 20 Desert Hills Estate Winery........................ 21 Quinta Ferreira Estate Winery.................. 21 Spirit Ridge................................................ 22 Destination Osoyoos................................. 23

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Adega on 45th.......................................... 24

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Recline Ridge Vineyards............................ 24 Larch Hills Winery...................................... 25 Armstrong Chamber.................................. 25

Contributing Writers & Photographers

Krause Berry Farms................................... 26

Blake Allen, Roslyne Buchanan, Lesley Buxton, Deanna Dunham, Sue Harper, Victor Poirier, Jodie Quibell, David Wylie.

Summerhill Pyramid Winery...................... 27

Food & Wine Trails articles, columns, pictures and illustrations are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any other publication without the expressed written consent of the Publisher. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of information received and printed in BC Food & Wine Trails, we cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions, E&OE.

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KELOWNA

“The Okanagan’s premier wine, hike, bike, paddle and ski adventure tour company”

Kelowna, Vernon and Salmon Arm

www.flowerpowerylw.ca

Toll Free: 1-800-868-5121 Local: 250-253-8379 byron@nobleadventures.net www.nobleadventures.net Photo courtesy of Destination BC

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MARCH | APRIL

Revel in the Urban Winery Experience AT SANDHILL WINERY

KELOWNA

BLAKE ALLEN

Let’s face it, the people of Kelowna have it good! Just take a stroll through the city and you’ll find yourself with an entire vacation’s worth of renowned restaurants, world-class shopping and sunny beaches.

But without question, the Okanagan’s brightest gem is its wine. And fortunately, you don’t need to venture into the countryside, along the valley’s winding backroads, to find one of the Okanagan’s top tier wineries. Because in addition to the usual city amenities, Kelowna also boasts British Columbia’s first urban winery, rooted right here in its beautiful downtown core!

If you think you need a rural setting to have the proper winery experience, think again! The spacious and modern tasting room at Sandhill Wines is conveniently situated along Kelowna’s Grapes to Grains Trail, a tour of the city’s breweries, distilleries, cidery and winery. Sandhill Winery now offers guests three memorable and highly distinctive tasting experiences. There’s the standard tasting experience at the main tasting bar, where patrons sample through a diverse and guided flight of wines. Nestled beside Sandhill is the old Calona Wines tasting room, complete with its cavernous cellar atmosphere and some of the winery’s old bottles, looking more like museum pieces, resting upon the walls. This is British Columbia’s oldest winery, having first opened its doors in 1932.

For those of you who still yearn for the vineyard, Sandhill Winery also has a Virtual Vineyard Tour Experience.

It’s a 45-minute photographic tour of the winery’s five unique vineyards from which it sources its grapes, complete with interactive touchscreens and an array of beautiful images and videos. This is coupled with samplings of Small Lot wines produced from these very vineyards. The Small Lot wines, some of which are less than 10 barrels in total volume, are all produced from grapes specially grown in these vineyards. And among these varietals are the Okanagan’s oldest Sangiovese along with the only Barbera in the Okanagan. This makes both this tasting as well as these wines quite literally a unique experience.

Hidden around the corner of the main tasting bar is a peaceful, open-spaced lounge where patrons can enjoy the Seated Tasting Experience. Relax in the brightly coloured chairs and couches. Sit back with friends to laugh and chat while tasting guides slowly make the rounds, allowing groups to finish samples at their own pace.

You can even order a cheese platter to enjoy with the tasting! And if at the end of this experience you are feeling quite at home, why not enjoy a glass of your favourite wine to complete your day in downtown Kelowna at one of the valley’s finest wineries?

BRING THIS AD IN TO ENJOY A COMPLIMENTARY WINE TASTING FOR TWO

Discover the difference that a Small Lot single vineyard wine can make.

Visit Sandhill’s Urban Winery in the heart of downtown Kelowna.

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1125 Richter Street, Kelowna, BC • 250-979-4211 • www.sandhillwines.ca • Follow us @sandhillwines WWW.WINETRAILS.CA

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RICCO BAMBINO

New Winery in Downtown Kelowna

JODI QUIBELL

There’s a new winery in downtown Kelowna and it will be open just in time for the Spring Wine Festival.

Ricco Bambino is a boutique winery and garden bar that focusses on creating minimal intervention wines. It’s located at 1630 Pandosy Street in the heart of Kelowna.

The winery’s new urban tasting room is bright and airy, merging pastel colours together with living walls and brass accents. The goal for the design was to create a space that accentuated the feelings associated with drinking Ricco Bambino wines. Knowing these requirements from winery owner Jason Alton, F2a Architects were careful to marry a playful sophistication that flirts with opulence, while maintaining a sense of humility to the new urban winery.

The garden bar is a 20-seat patio that feels like a garden oasis. With high walls filled with cascading plants that form a beautiful privacy screen, it’s the perfect place to sip, sample and indulge your inner wine connoisseur.

The wines are elegant and well-structured, expressive and beaming with a refreshing, bright, balanced acidity.

Ricco Bambino is one of the few wineries in the valley that practises making minimal intervention wines. They ferment and age their wines in concrete vessels to allow for micro-oxygenation to occur. This process allows the wines to breathe and develop a rounder mouth and textural feel without the addition of any unwanted flavours imparted by using oak or additives.

All the grapes used for the wines are organic, sustainably farmed and hand-harvested from biodynamic vineyards throughout the Okanagan Valley. Matt Dumayne is Ricco Bambino’s winemaker. He brings his philosophy of “less is more” to the minimal intervention winemaking ethos. After a gentle pressing, the grapes are transferred into stainless steel or concrete tulip tanks and the fermentation starts to take place with nothing more than the wild yeasts that naturally occur in the vineyards. This process is somewhat risky; however, it’s the only way to produce living wines that reflect the terroir where the grapes were grown.

Ricco Bambino is proud to be a small batch winery, producing 3,300 cases in total. Its organic wines are made with passion, and as such, it places emphasis on quality wine before anything else. In terms of offerings, the portfolio for the 2017 vintage is made up of four sparkling wines, two Metodo Classico bruts and two Metodo Italiano sparkling wines. You’re sure to love the Kicked out of the Country Club brut and the Very Troubled Child rosé brut.

In addition to their sparkling wine, they have an organic Cabernet Franc Rosé, a sustainably farmed Viognier, and a zippy, Bianco blend of Riesling and Viognier. Their single varietal organic reds include a Syrah, a Merlot and a Cabernet Sauvignon. It is rumoured this first vintage is fantastic, so be sure you get yours before it’s all gone.

As an added bonus, once they’re open they’ll deliver your wines for free within the Kelowna area!

Mark your calendars and plan on an evening out during the grand opening in early May. With limited tickets available, you’ll want to be one of the first to sample their smooth, concrete-aged reds and fresh, crisp stainless steel fermented whites. Keep your eye on the website (riccobambino.com) for the announcement! While you’re on the website, check out the Ricco Bambino’s pink mesh snap back caps, unisex T-shirts and visors.

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THE WINES ARE ELEGANT AND WELL STRUCTURED, EXPRESSIVE AND BEAMING WITH A REFRESHING, BRIGHT, BALANCED ACIDITY

A DIFFERENT TYPE OF WINERY

OKANAGAN VALLEY BC VQA • MINIMAL INTERVENTION WINES

OPENING SPRING 2018 • DOWNTOWN 1630 PANDOSY ST, KELOWNA

Winter’s Gifts HAVE ARRIVED AT CIAO BELLA WINERY

WE ST KELOWNA

BLAKE ALLEN

Volcanic Hills Estate Winery’s AWARD-WINNING GAMAY NOIR 2016 LESLEY BUXTON

At Volcanic Hills Estate Winery, they believe in the adage that good wine begins in the vineyard, and it's clearly working for them.

Over the years, this winery has won a host of awards including two Golds at this year’s Great Northwest Invitational Wine Competition for its 2016 Single Vineyard Gewürztraminer and 2016 Gamay Noir, and a Double Gold, Best of Class for its 2015 Reserve Viognier at the Harvest Challenge California.

Recently the winery won its first platinum at the British Colombias Wine Awards — BC’s oldest and largest competition — for its 2016 Gamay Noir.

President Bobby Gidda is thrilled.

“2016 was a great growing year,” he says.

“Perfect conditions, nice weather with a dry harvest.”

The Gamay Noir is extremely affordable retailing at $17. Dark, red and delicious, it tastes of cherry, cranberry and plum with suggestions of chocolate, vanilla, pepper and smoke. Oaked for four months in French and American oak, it’s light with

soft tannins and medium acidity. The finish is wonderful — fresh and bright. Bobby suggests pairing it with spicy food, Indian or Thai curries, turkey with herbed stuffing, baked ham or anything with a big flavour.

Focussing on the future, this dynamic winery has exciting plans for the upcoming season. On Sunday May 6, it’s hosting a special Wine Festival Event, a vertical tasting of its Pinot Noir, comparing vintages from 2013 to 2017. This educational event is a must for those intrigued by the art of wine making. It’s a first-hand opportunity to learn from the experts in an informal setting about how wine changes as it ages.

The occasion will begin with a sparkling reception and a short tour of the winery.

Vintages will be paired with sharing platters made especially by Blu Saffron Bistro.

This winery has a loyal following so you’ll want to book immediately. Spaces are limited to 12 people. Just visit the website (volcanichillswinery.com) and drop them an email or give the winery a quick call (778755-5550). Don’t worry though, if there’s a demand, Bobby promises they’ll repeat the event the following Sunday.

The winter season was quiet atop West Kelowna’s Farm Loop, where Ciao Bella Winery sits apart from the hustle and bustle of the city below. But while the season lay quiet, owners Roberto and Sharon Fiume along with kids Antonio and Olivia worked hard to release to the public a precious gift from the season, the 2017 Dolce Vino – a uniquely Italian take on the ice wine!

A festive and seasonal cherryblossom-pink in colour, the Dolce Vino is sweet and made from red grapes. It greets the drinker with a burst of dark cherry on the palate but finishes with a milder hint of Italian plums.

All of the wines here are crafted in traditional Italian styles, and the Fiumes love to welcome guests with warm greetings of benvenuto and offerings of authentic Italian meats, cheeses and cappuccinos. Images of Roberto’s Nonna (Grandma) and Nonno (Grandpa) don the labels, with the Dolce Vino showcasing a beautiful image of the two boarding the ship from Italy to Canada. This quickly growing winery is dedicated to family and invites all guests into the Fiumes' own famiglia. It’s a rustic piece of Napoli, nestled right here in West Kelowna.

But winter’s harvest only yielded 30 cases of Dolce Vino, so be sure to visit soon. And bring the family with you … they’d love to take a quick trip to Italy!

2017 Pinot Grigio This exquisite off-dry white is fruit forward with crisp hints of green apple and apricots, replete with a citric nose and a buttery finish.

2015 Pinot Rosé: Fun, refreshing and fruit forward, this delightful wine awakens the palate with bursts of strawberries and rhubarb underscored by hints of succulent watermelon and wild cherry.

2015 Pinot Nero: This red greets you with a nose that’s fresh out of the garden with an aroma of strawberries, cherries and raspberries. The body is mild, rich in fruit, with just a touch of chocolate.

A Taste of Italy In the Okanagan

info@volcanichillswinery.com 10

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Wine shop open Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11am - 5pm from Feb 15th - Apr 30th.

Summer hours start May 1st Closed Spring Break 3252 Glencoe Road, West Kelowna, BC www.ciaobellawinery.com

SU M M E R L A N D

PE N T I C TO N SUMMERLAND ESTATE WINERY AND B&B

Beautiful Scenery and Organic Wines Winery Overlooking Okanagan Lake, Summerland Estate Winery and B&B offers both beautiful scenery and organic and terroir driven wines. Summerland Estate purchased Sonoran Winery in 2016, and immediately transitioned the 3.2-acre vineyard to organic practices.

Sharon Xie, executive director, says “Our terroir features limestone, granite and volcanic rock on a silt base, offering the ideal climate and minerals for growing premium estate wines.”

The company entrusts its winemaking to Matt Dumayne, of Okanagan Crush Pad, who is both experienced and passionate. Focussing on small batches that are 100 per cent estate grown, each wine is named after the ending digit of the vineyard blocks’ longitude and latitude coordinates and synced with Google maps.

Summerland Estate’s first vintages will be released this spring. Offerings will include: a 2016 88 Reserve Merlot, aged in French barrels for 14 months, a 2016 88 Merlot, lighter in body and barrel-aged for eight months, and a 2016 77 Pinot Noir, barrel-aged for seven months.

DEANNA DUNHAM

Summerland Estate will also be releasing its 2017 78 Rose, which displays attributes of both the Pinot Noir and Merlot vineyard blocks.

Delicate and soft, the 78 Rose showcases both harmony and continuity in viticulture and winemaking.

The 2017 Rose offers crisp notes of orange peel and grapefruit, followed by an off-dry, creamy, bubblegum finish and smooth minerality, expressing the unique terroir of Summerland.

Along with focussing on elegant wines, Summerland Estate Winery is enhancing the property for guest experiences. It offers a three-bedroom, licensed B&B and two vacation rentals on site, accommodating 16 people. The winery plans to build a 3,090-square-foot patio equipped with a stage for live entertainment, weddings and private functions. With scenic vineyards, accommodations, event space and lake access, Summerland Estate is sure to become a destination all on its own.

SUMMERLAND ESTATE Winery + B&B Organic & Terroir Driven

Book your next wine n’ relax over looking Okanagan Lake

www.SummerlandEstateWinery.com www.summerlandestatewinery.com

WWW.WINETRAILS.CA

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PE N T I C TO N N A R A M ATA

A Stunning Array of Locally-Sourced Foods

TO BE FOUND AT THE VANILLA POD

Open Daily From 11:30 am for lunch, afternoon tapas or dinner.

Open For Brunch On Saturdays & Sundays from 10am May - Thanksgiving. w. thevanillapod.ca e. vanillapod@shaw.ca 425 Middle Bench Rd., N. Penticton 1.250.492.0462

You’d be forgiven for thinking the array of locally sourced foods is limited here in the Okanagan. After all, the valley is on the upper edge of the Sonoran Desert. But one of the Okanagan’s most celebrated restaurants, The Vanilla Pod, inside Naramata’s Poplar Grove Winery, offers its guests a spectrum of local foods more diverse than one might expect.

From meals like Wagyu Beef, to the core accoutrements like heirloom tomatoes, The Vanilla Pod’s menu, prepared by the accomplished Chef Bruno, follows the

BLAKE ALLEN

seasons, focussing on farm-to-table produce and Ocean Wise fishing practices.

To get a true sense of just how diverse the local farm scene is here, The Vanilla Pod invites patrons to come by during the Spring Wine Fest to enjoy a five-course, wine-paired meal, available every evening May 4-13.

Be sure to try The Vanilla Pod Barrel Select, a Meritage-blend made especially for The Vanilla Pod by Poplar Grove’s winemaker Stefan Arnason.

Reservations can already be made by calling the restaurant at (250) 493-9463 or at thevanillapod.ca.

New Releases: 2015 Estate Syrah + 2015 Lone Wolf Syrah

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ROSLYNE BUCHANAN

The winter may bring quiet to the region, but in the barrel rooms of the Naramata Bench Wineries Association (NBWA), winemakers have been busy, and are ready to debut their spring releases.

Perhaps the first sign of spring is the 6th Vertical & Vintages at Apex Mountain Resort, March 10, where après skiing meets wine tasting, appetizers and live music. Tickets: apexresort.com/events/verticalandvintages Spring is a balance of inviting guests into tasting rooms as NBWA members hit the road for their annual Spring Wine Release events. In Victoria, April 10, at Crystal Garden, “reWined” marks a new partnership with Make a Wish Foundation, where NBWA wines complement dishes by Vancouver Island chefs. Tickets: hibid.ca/events/rewinedvictoria-2018 April 13, NBWA members are at Vancouver’s Four Seasons Hotel to partner with the Ocean Wise seafood program at “Wine For Waves,” presenting their wines with offerings from sustainable seafood restaurants. Tickets: seafood.ocean.org/ events/wfw2018/

Both these events also host silent auctions of exclusive Naramata wines and experiences. All proceeds from the events go to charities. There are trade tastings in the afternoons at both locations.

“The charitable component is an important commitment that NBWA makes for each event to give back to communities in which we live and visit,” said Tina Baird of the NBWA. In that spirit, NBWA is pleased to be the wine sponsor for Vancouver Community College’s “Flourish Gala” on March 14 — an event to raise scholarship and bursary funds. Savour Naramata wines with food creations from high profile VCC Culinary alumni chefs. Tickets: vcc.ca/gala Of course, NBWA is always proud to welcome visitors. At the Okanagan Wine Festival’s Spring Festival, May 12, members again present their complimentary event “Roll Out the Barrels” at multiple wineries.

Details can be found on all activities by frequently checking naramatabench.com, as well as by clicking links to the wineries’ individual websites. The perennially sold-out Tailgate Party is September 8, with tickets on sale in May.

On The Cover!

NAR A M ATA

WINE TRA ILS

Food &

BENCH WINERIES ASSOCIATION

MARC

Meet the Ciao Bella Winery family of West Kelowna.

Three generations share their love of the land and creating award winning Okanagan wines with Italian flair.

The patriarch and matriarch of the family, Luigi and Melina, came to Canada from sunny southern Italy in the province of Napoli. Luigi grew up on the family farm near Napoli while Melina grew up in Somma Vesusviana, an area renowned for the fertile volcanic soils created by Mount Vesuvius.

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Today you’ll find their son, Roberto, out in the vineyard and his wife, Sharon in the wine shop. Roberto has been producing high quality grapes for over 20 years now. at first for other wineries and now for their own award-winning wines.

You may even see their children, Antonio and Olivia helping around the vineyard and wine shop.

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Thanks to our creative and talented photographer, Victor Piorier, of Studio RedStar for creating this three-generation family portrait for our cover. Studio Red Star has been providing clients with photography, video production and writing services for over 25 years now.

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NAR A M ATA

Completely Charmed

BY RED ROOSTER WINERY LESLEY BUXTON

At Red Rooster Winery, they want their visitors to feel welcome.

They’ve worked hard to create an atmosphere where both new wine lovers and aficionados will feel comfortable from the moment they arrive.

To start, there’s the spectacular views of Okanagan Lake and the mountains — some of the best in the neighbourhood. Then there’s fanciful sculptures throughout the garden. One can’t help but fall in love with local metal artist Lawrence Cormier’s whimsical mermaid with her long strands of flowing hair.

Inside the tasting room, there’s a lot to admire as well. There’s fun, farmhouse-inspired art and knickknacks as well as the winery’s fabulous T-shirts which feature some very regal roosters. The highlight is the long inviting bar, just perfect for leaning against and enjoying a tasting.

At Red Rooster, they offer a special incentive to those who visit — the opportunity to taste select wines from their exclusive Rare Bird Series that can only be found at the winery. This includes wines such as the Rare Bird Malbec 2015, a delicious, medium-bodied wine. Think blueberry, clove, blackberry and just enough oak to draw one in. It’s luscious with flavours of red currant, blackberry and blueberry. The lasting finish is of black tea, currant and spice.

Burke Ganton, Red Rooster’s VIP and Key Accounts Representative, calls this a truly Canadian wine because “it’s so unafraid to be itself.” He describes “the spicy warm flavour as the exact opposite of a Canadian winter.” Still, it pairs beautifully with what Canadians love to eat. For a barbecue — it’s a meat lover’s dream. It’s the kind of wine that can handle a big burger smothered in blue cheese and bacon, or a piece of freshly baked tourtière. It accompanies game meats, like moose, beautifully.

Vegetarians do not despair! Just think fusion cuisine, aged cheeses like Gouda or smoky barbecue tofu.

This is a limited production wine as the winery only created 215 cases.

It was grown on the estate and tended by Red Rooster’s Adopt a Row members. This program allows wine lovers the opportunity to buy a row at the vineyard and learn from the ground up what it takes to grow grapes.

Members join the estate in pruning in the spring and picking in the fall.

For their work, they are rewarded with a mixed case of wine that includes the Malbec they helped to produce. The sought-after wine is not their only prize. The program also includes two exclusive, fun-filled weekends of food and wine. The membership fee is $325 plus tax. This popular program is filled at present.

For those not interested in getting their hands dirty but who want to be pampered, there’s the exclusive Red Rooster Wine Club. The winery recently renovated three rooms upstairs — The Roost, The Cockpit and The Coup — to enhance the wine tasting experience for their members.

Each room is distinct. The Roost is decorated with photographs of heritage roosters, a fake cow skin rug and cool 1960s inspired chairs and cork wallpaper.

The Cockpit, in contrast, feels more intimate. The feature wall is covered in reclaimed barn board and there’s a long table surrounded by benches with red cushions. The walls are covered in recycled pallet shelves designed

by Katherine MacKenzie, the estate’s manager. The metal light fixtures are vintage inspired. It’s the kind of place one can imagine enjoying a tasting with friends.

The Roost is painted a deep blue-grey and is decorated with frames displaying bottles of wine. Fruit crates serve as shelves and there’s a fabulous one-of-a-kind sink created out of a wine barrel. It’s funky industrial meets farmhouse cosy.

The wine club is presently going through some exciting changes, but one thing that wine members can always be assured of is access to the winery’s exclusive and limited vintages. This includes Karen’s Golden Egg — an innovative passion project created by the winemaker Karen Gillis with the help of local growers, to create an iconic Rhone-style red — and the Reserve Pinot Noir, with its pure fruit flavours of red berry, red currant, cherry and crab apple.

Come taste these delicious wines for yourself. You’ll be so comfortable you’ll never want to leave. After all, it’s rare these days to find a place like this where one feels so at ease and so completely charmed.

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Heart of Wine Country The

The Heart of Wine Country wraps around the Okanagan Falls area stretching from Skaha Lake to Vaseux Lake.The area is famed for some of Canada’s top wine production with the highest quality wines in the valley.

What has largely been kept a secret only sought out by those wine lovers in the know, these hidden gems of small wineries offer a taste of some of the finest wines, wonderful people and the heart of the Okanagan wine experience. Call each winery for wineshop hours.

Play Estate Winery

Yorkton Ave

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3 Crescent Hill Winery 205 Spruce Road, Penticton 250.492.7842 www.crescenthillwinery.com

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15 Wild Goose Vineyards & Winery 2145 Sun Valley Way, OK Falls 250.497.8919 www.wildgoosewinery.com

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12 Stag’s Hollow Winery 2237 Sun Valley Way, OK Falls 250.497.6162 www.stagshollowwinery.com

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11 See Ya Later Ranch 2575 Green Lake Rd., OK Falls 250.497.8267 www.sylranch.com

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10 Painted Rock Estate Winery 400 Smythe Dr., Penticton 250.493.6809 www.paintedrock.ca

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8 Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery 2320 Oliver Ranch Rd. ,OK Falls 250.497.7945 www.nobleridge.com 9 Pentâge Winery 4551 Valley View Road, Penticton 250 493 4008 www.pentage.com

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5 Liquidity Vineyards 4720 Allendale Rd., OK Falls 778.515.5550 www.liquiditywines.com 6 Meyer Family Vineyards 4287 McLean Creek Rd., OK Falls 250.497.8553 www.MFVwines.com

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4 Kraze Legz Vineyard & Winery 141 Fir Ave., Kaleden 250.497.6957 www.krazelegz.com

Crescent Hill Winery

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2 Blue Mountain Vineyard & Cellars 2385 Allendale Rd., OK Falls 250.497.8244 www.bluemountainwinery.com

Valleyview Rd

1 Blasted Church Vineyards 378 Parsons Rd., OK Falls 250.497.1125 www.blastedchurch.com

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www.ofwa.ca #SipOKFalls For the latest information on all happenings in the heart of wine country, contact us: www.ofwa.ca e: info@ofwa.ca

2018 EVENTS Saturday April 28th: Spring Social!

Tickets on sale soon for an evening of wine, food & music. Mingle with all 15 member winemakers while they showcase their new spring releases.

Check our website for more details!

Friday July 6th: Party in the Park at Kenyon Park in Okanagan Falls.

Tickets on sale soon for our 6th annual Party in the Park at Kenyon Park in beautiful Okanagan Falls, check our website for more detail!

Saturday, Nov 17th & Sunday, Nov 18th: Holiday Cheer Open House A weekend of Holiday Cheer, come visit our 15 member wineries and celebrate the Holiday Season with special gift, food and wine pairings!

Check our website for more details to come!

OLIVER

TASTING ROOM

Reopens SUE HARPER

On Friday, April 27, the Triggs family reopens the Culmina Family Estate Winery Tasting Room. New in the tasting room this season will be a weekly open house, taking place every Saturday afternoon from 2 to 6 pm.

Guests who visit Culmina during the Saturday open house will still receive the individualized attention they have come to expect from their

visits to the winery, but with a bit more flexibility in terms of their timing of arrival. For only $10, half of which will be waived with purchase, each visitor will be guided through their choice of five wines from Culmina’s critically acclaimed portfolio in an elegant table service setting.

Guests may look forward to fan-favourites like Saignée, Dilemma, Decora and Unicus, as well as the most recent vintage of Hypothesis,

Culmina’s flagship Bordeaux-style red blend.

New offerings will include Culmina’s single varietal reds, including Culmina’s first-ever Malbec release.

Reserve Tastings will continue to be offered throughout the season, seven days per week at set times throughout the day, with Portfolio Tastings, Red Flights, and Vineyard & Winery Tours also available by appointment.

FIND WINE TRAILS ONLINE AT WWW.WINETRAILS.CA

SATURDAY

OPEN HOUSE Weekly from 2-6 pm Kick-off April 28 4790 Wild Rose Street, Oliver BC | 250.498.0789 | info@culmina.ca | culmina.ca

Calliopewines.com WWW.WINETRAILS.CA

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Hidden Chapel Winery

TO RELEASE WINE IN MEMORY OF MAX ROSLYNE BUCHANAN

OLIVER

Uncorked LIFE’S WORK DAVID WYLIE

Ted Kane started making wine before he could even drink it. At 17 years old, Kane experimented with winemaking kits. He squeezed wine from anything he could use — crab apples from his parents’ tree, grapes from the market, even potatoes. Wine has been his life’s work.

Now he puts those decades of experience making wine and growing grapes to good use at the winery he founded, River Stone Estate Winery in Oliver.

“So much of the fun to me is experimenting,” said Kane. “I learned how to manipulate the chemistry in certain ways.”

Knowing he wanted to farm a vineyard, Kane experimented with growing his own grapes in a greenhouse in Edmonton. Set on his dream, Kane and his wife, Lorraine, found

an unspoiled 9.5-acre piece of land just outside Oliver bordering on the Okanagan River — a perfect place to produce red wines.

They moved from Edmonton, and Kane began to chase his winemaking dream and his wife pursued her career as a doctor.

“This is the Napa of the North, and the centre of the universe for growing grapes is Oliver,” he said. “The climate is unique to Canada.”

The vines he planted are rooted in deep rock and gravel soils laid down following the last glacial recession. He had the vineyard planted with Bordeaux blends in mind.

“Mother Nature runs the show. You’ve got to keep up with her, and you’ve got to be in tune,” he said.

This is his 16th year farming the site and the eighth season the wine shop has been open. The hard work has been paying off, with a growing base of loyal customers.

Kane now has a repertoire of popular wines, including a Pinot Gris-Gewurztraminer mix called Splash, a sparkling white Merlot (which is relatively new) and Malbec Rose – which “I never can seem to make enough of it.”

The winery also makes several Bordeauxstyle blends, including Stones Throw, and its signature wine, Corner Stone.

Returning visitors to Hidden Chapel Winery near Oliver will no doubt miss the ever-popular and beloved German Shepherd winery dog, Max. Since Deborah Wilde, co-owner, established Hidden Chapel in 2009, Max was a key component of winery life at the picturesque setting. Max loved greeting guests, playing with visiting children while their parents tasted, guiding people to visit the hidden chapel, and performing guard dog duties.

Wilde explained, “Sadly, on January 8, 2018, family, friends and staff had to say goodbye to beloved, 12-year old Max as he departed to Doggy Heaven, where he is chasing pinecones with his family and friends that left before him.”

Wilde says, “He’s in Doggy Heaven because everyone knows all dogs go to heaven! In memory of Max and all dogs who have left this earth and crossed the rainbow bridge, Hidden Chapel plans to release a special wine.” More details on the wine will be announced when it’s ready for release.

To be released this spring, is Hidden Chapel’s second vintage of its popular, sparkling wine called Made of Honour. It’s perfect for any celebration or just sipping on the patio on a summer afternoon.

This sparkling wine is a Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon blend with rich, cherry notes on the palate. Retail is $25.10 before taxes.

The Flying Nun, which was last released as a 2012 vintage, will also be resurrected this year. It is a drier blend, predominantly Sauvignon Blanc with a touch of Riesling.

This wine has grapefruit on the palate with a hint of green apple on the nose; it’s great for pairing with food! Retail is $17.30 before taxes.

The tasting room, wine shop and chapel are open daily from 10am to 5pm, April through November. Visit hiddenchapelwinery.com for more information and to order wine online.

Savour the Journey...

250-498-0043

riverstone@eastlink.ca

RIVERSTONE@EASTLINK.CA 143 BUCHANAN DR, OLIVER BC

RIVERSTONEESTATEWINERY.CA www.riverstoneestatewinery.ca F ACEBOOK: RIVERSTONEESTATEWINERY https://www.facebook.com/RiverStoneEstateWinery/ INSTAGRAM: @DRINKRIVERSTONE https://www.instagram.com/riverstoneestate/?hl=en https://www.twitter.com/drinkriverstone?lang=en TWITTER: @DRINKRIVERSTONE

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Tasting is Believing!

Open Daily April through October Off Season: 250-490-6000 for Appointment 482 Pinehill Rd., Oliver BC 250-490-6000

www.hiddenchapelwinery.com

OLIVER

Golden Anniversary ON THE GOLDEN MILE LESLEY BUXTON

At Hester Creek Estate Winery this season, the emphasis is on honouring their old vines as they prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their estate vineyard.

As one of the pioneers of the South Okanagan wine industry, they are proud of their historical connection to this spectacular landscape.

This story begins with Joe Busnardo, an Italian immigrant, who in 1968 was searching for the ideal spot to plant the vinifera vines he’d brought over from the old country.

Those were nascent days for the BC wine industry, but Joe recognized the opportunity to grow premium wine grapes. He carefully selected a sun-drenched place on an east-facing slope, now known as the Golden Mile Bench, just south of the old town of Oliver. Half a century later, the classic varietals Joe planted — the Cabernet Franc, “Italian Merlot,” Pinot Blanc and Trebbiano — thrive, along with other suitable varietals that have been planted since to complete the 105-acre estate.

Traditionally grown in northern Italy, the Okanagan Valley’s only Trebbiano is created at Hester Creek.

An elegant wine, it offers scented notes of apple, pear and tropical fruit supported by a unique minerality.

Perfectly balanced, it tastes of grapefruit, with a bright acidity and a lovely crisp finish. It pairs wonderfully with goat and soft cheeses and is exceptionally well priced at $23.95.

The winery’s Block 3 Reserve Cabernet Franc is a classic example of how heritage vines enhance

the flavour of a wine through their consistency and boldness. Here the aromas are of autumn leaves, fresh dill and bright raspberry followed by flavours of red berry, earthy cocoa and spice. This is a wine destined to be enjoyed with seared duck, rich meats and intriguing conversations over dinner. It’s attractively priced at $28.95.

To mark this significant anniversary year, the winery is introducing a premium Bordeaux style red blend of five varietals: Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Malbec. It’s named Garland, for Hester Creek’s owner, Curt Garland.

The wine will be released Saturday May 12 for Bench Club Members at their annual Crush Pad Party. This commences an exceptional wine season jam-packed with amazing festivities such as live music, culinary events, a revival party weekend and much more.

Wine aficionados won’t want to miss senior winemaker Rob Summer’s old vines seminars. Offered during the Spring and Fall Okanagan Wine Festivals, these informative sessions will be highlighted by tastings of the original varietals as well as a chance to learn about the distinctive Golden Mile terroir and what makes these historic vines so unique.

A 50th anniversary is a tremendous milestone. A time for toasts to the future, reflection and celebration.

A chance to observe the past and appreciate one’s humble beginnings.

This is especially true for a winery that prides itself on “having roots that run deep.”

O UR ROOT S RUN DEEP This year we’re celebrating 50 years of our historic vineyard on the Golden Mile Bench. We invite you to join in the golden anniversary festivities including commemorative culinary classes, live music, barbeques, and much more!

W W W. H E S T E R C R E E K . C O M www.hestercreek.com

WWW.WINETRAILS.CA

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Enjoy the Good Old Days OLIVER TWIST ESTATE WINERY

OLIVER

JODI QUIBELL

GEHRINGER BROTHERS ESTATE WINERY

Forging Bonds Beyond Borders LESLEY BUXTON

Spring promises to be an exciting time for Rosé enthusiasts. Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery’s much anticipated Rosé is due to be released at the end of March. This new release features two varietals, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It’s intended to have a classic dry style that’s perfect for sipping, but it can also be enjoyed with everyday foods such as pastas, salads and light seafood. This delicate wine is designed to be enjoyed young.

Judging by the response to the winery’s sold-out 2016 Cabernet Franc Rosé, it’s bound to be delicious. This award-winning 2016 Rosé, along with the 2016 Dry Rock Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, the 2016 Ehrenfelser, the 2016 Private Reserve Dry Riesling, the 2015 Signature Series Cabernet Franc Icewine and the 2016 GewürztraminerSchönburger were all Platinum winners at the 2017 Wine Press Northwest Platinum Judging. This is a prestigious contest, created by Wine Press Northwest 18 years ago to determine who was making the best wines of the Pacific Northwest.

To accomplish this, the Wine Press independently follows 40 international wine competitions, tracking gold medals winners from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and British Columbia. The wines are categorized, then judged blind by three experts. Wine medals include: Double Platinum, Platinum, Double Gold and Best Buy. With seventy platinum medals, Gehringer Brothers are the reigning “King of Platinum.”

Indeed, wineries from British Columbia have become such a central part of the Pacific Northwest wine scene that Washington-state-based Yakima Enological Society — dedicated to “fostering interest in and appreciation of viticulture, enology, and proper use of wine” — now grants two scholarships to the Penticton Campus of Okanagan College viticulture program. This is a remarkable gift from an American-based society. This kind of commitment to creating excellence in winemaking impresses Walter Gehringer. Especially when it goes beyond borders to foster bonds rather than rivals.

There is no doubt Gehringer Brothers’ newest wine will continue this legacy.

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Award Winning Wines Breathtaking Patio Views Food Truck on site Gift Shop

There’s Nothing Quite as Seductive as Nostalgia.

les Bott

32 Years of Passionate Wine Crafting

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Come Enjoy our Spring Releases

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Oliver Twist hosts a hands-on cheese making and wine pairing workshop. Participants will learn how to make and take home the cheese, and discover recipes that pair with Oliver Twist wines. Enjoy a glass and appies, while listening to the stories from a modernday milkmaid. Limited spots are available, so book now. Tickets can be purchased at the winery or by calling 250-485-0227.

At both the Customer Appreciation Day and the Cheese Making Workshop, make sure you get your bottle of 2017 Pinot Gris before it sells out. This cool, crisp wine with notes of apple and pear will be a welcome flavour during the upcoming summer months. If a nice Rose is more to your liking, you’ll love the 2017 Pink Cadillac.

You’ll notice flavours of real strawberry and rhubarb dancing across your palate, along with major tropical flavours like passionfruit and guava. Not to be missed!

OLIVER TWIST

The most Platinum Awards in the Pacific Northwest

21 Wines Tasted Daily

Enjoy at trip back to the good old days at Oliver Twist Estate Winery.

A 1970s Airstream food truck is parked right outside. Throughout the tasting room, you’ll find retro luggage, nifty art work and other vintage items. You may even hear your favourite ‘50s or ‘60s songs playing in the background.

Plan a travel adventure on March 10, when the entertaining staff at Oliver Twist welcomes everyone to their Customer Appreciation Day. Gina Harfman, a fourth generation Osoyoos resident, is as local as it gets. During this Customer Appreciation Day, there will be wine specials, delicious snacks and lots of fun!

As part of Spring Wine Fest, on May 12,

Tasting Room Open Daily 10:00 to 5:30

Ask us about our Twist Club | www.olivertwistwinery.com 398 Lupine Lane (just off Road 9) | Oliver, BC | 250.485.0227

Easter Marks Daily Hours

OLIVER

FOR QUINTA FERREIRA ROSLYNE BUCHANAN

News FROM DESERT HILLS SUE HARPER

When Desert Hills Estate winery reopens its tasting bar this spring, visitors will discover two new special releases: a 2015 Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and a Family Reserve Gamay.

Winemaker Anthony Buchanan explains how blocks from two of the Toor family’s estate vineyards were identified as having the potential to produce extremely high quality grapes.

“From the beginning through to harvest, we treated these particular blocks differently.”

The Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon has been 16 months in 100 per cent new French oak and Buchanan said, “It is absolutely beautiful.”

Gamay is the most popular of Desert Hills’ wines, which led the team to a second exciting project: a Family Reserve Gamay from the 2016 vintage. They blended grapes from two vineyards and barrelled the wine for 10 months in a combination of second and third fill French and American oak, which adds a bit of complexity and a bit of sweetness to the wine.

On everyone’s mind this year is the effect of the 2017 fires on last fall’s harvest. So far, the Desert Hills’ winemaker believes the 2017 vintage has been good across the board. They’ve had a balanced crop, even though it was down a bit from the previous year.

According to Buchanan, the fires had some positive effects on the grapes.

Temperatures were more moderate as the smoke cooled down the valley sometimes five to 10 degrees. The grapes ripened more slowly and evenly. Obviously, there’s always the fear of smoke taint, but Buchanan says so far, he has not seen any volatile phenols associated with smoke taint.

“There are a number of techniques we can employ going through the fermentation process to help compensate.”

The winery, located in Oliver, reopens April 1 with several of its popular wines on offer at the tasting bar. If you’re interested in the Family Reserve Gamay and the Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, you should visit early, quantities are limited.

As Peter Cottontail comes hopping down the bunny trail, wine touring springs into action at Quinta Ferreira Estate Winery on Black Sage Road, now open daily for the season. In the tasting room at Quinta Ferreira, you’ll find the new vintages of whites are being released. Now’s the time to snare those favourite white wines that sold out last summer!

Make sure you also snap up tickets for the Bifanas, Wine & Live Music event, May 6, from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm — or until the bifanas run out. It features live music, the perennially popular Portuguese sandwich of pork in a bun, salad and glass of wine for $20 — always a cheerful way to welcome the season. Tickets available through the website, by phone or in the tasting room.

Update your Day-Timer to the save the dates for all the season’s popular festivities.

The Sunday Music Series returns from 1 to 4 pm, July 1 to September 2. Gather your friends and visitors to enjoy live music on the patio alongside Quinta Ferreira wine and picnic fare. Watch for the rotating schedule of talented performers.

July 15 is the date for the sixth Annual Paella Feast,

another crowd-pleasing event overlooking the scenic vineyards. Enjoy live music, 11:30 am to 3:30 pm, as you watch the famous Portuguese dish, paella, prepared over an open fire. ($25 per ticket includes a plate of paella and glass of wine.) The 11th Annual Winemaker’s Dinner returns 6:30 to 10:30 pm, September 29. Details to be announced soon.

So, dust off your best Easter bonnet and visit the tasting room to see what’s new. For all the latest news, follow Facebook.com/QintanaFerreira and @ QuintaFerreira on Twitter and Instagram.

If you haven’t explored The Wine Club, learn about its many benefits on www.quintaferreira.com.

Desert Hills Estate Winery is family owned & operated. The people that make up the Desert Hills team are innovative & passionate, working to bring their customers the award winning wines they have become known for.

2 Time Recipient of the Lieutenant Governor’s Award For Excellence in Winemaking, Winner of Canada’s Best Red & 2 Time Winner Overall Best Wine!

Winery Open April - October 10am - 5:30pm 7 days/week. Bistro Coming Soon!

4078 Black Sage Road, Oliver BC 250.498-6664

www.deserthills.ca WWW.WINETRAILS.CA

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A New Narrative FOR SPIRIT RIDGE Things are heating up in the desert this spring. Spirit Ridge, the iconic Okanagan resort, has entered into a franchise agreement with Hyatt Hotels Corporation, becoming the first Canadian property included in Hyatt’s Unbound Collection — a prestigious line of boutique-style hotels that specialize in offering guests the opportunity to stay at unique properties with distinctive narratives.

Anyone who has ever visited Spirit Ridge knows this is the perfect fit. Situated in Canada’s only desert, it is a place of great spiritual significance to the Osoyoos Indian Band who have lived here for thousands of years. It charms the senses with its dramatic views of Osoyoos Lake, the surrounding

LESLEY BUXTON

vineyards and the stately Okanagan Range.

From the resort’s charming adobe-style suites and villas, to the original metal sculptures by Smoker Marchand, every aspect of this resort celebrates its location’s powerful legacy.

There’s plenty of entertainment for guests as well. Along with the usual full range of amenities, there’s private beach access, two pools, hot tubs, a fitness centre and the nine-hole Sonora Dunes Golf Course. For those who prefer to relax there’s the resort’s spa. Fancy a treat? Try the desert hot stone massage.

For those interested in learning about local history and wildlife, there’s the Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre. Located on the resort

property, this wonderful museum is dedicated to the history of this land and its people.

For those who enjoy the Okanagan’s other specialty “viticulture,” Nk'Mip Cellars, the first Aboriginal-owned winery in North America, is on-site. Have a tasting or enjoy a glass of their award-winning Pinot Noir or Riesling.

The resort also features great dining options, including Mica Restaurant, the Patio at Nk’Mip Cellars, Spirit Beach Cantina and the Spirit Ridge Market. There’s no need to leave after an active day.

This winter, the resort started an extensive renovation designed to enrich its guests’ experiences. Guest suites and public areas are all refreshed. This first phase of renovations

is due to be completed by spring. During these changes, the resort will remain open for business as usual. Naturally, guests can be assured of the first rate service they’ve come to expect. Renovations at Spirit Ridge will embrace the culture of the South Okanagan Valley, its first people and the sacred land on which it sits.

The Unbound Collection at Hyatt is devoted to creating authentic travel experiences for guests. Spirit Ridge is the sixth property in the collection, making the resort part of the exclusive brand spanning North America, Latin America and Europe. It’s certain that with its rich legacy and history, it’s bound to become one of its most beloved.

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O S OYO O S

Destination Osoyoos presents FRESH APPROACH TO OYSTERS IN THE DESERT Destination Osoyoos is popping open new options in the seventh annual Osoyoos Oyster Festival, April 18-22, presenting the South Okanagan as a premier destination for everything oysters. Select first-class dining experiences, sample oysters from around the world and sip award-winning wine, cider, beer and spirits in this unique celebration.

Liz Dryer, project manager, explains, “As we grow, it’s important to respond to festival feedback, enhance events and develop ideas.”

Oysters and seafood are exclusively provided by the festival’s greatest supporters/ champions — Jon and Anne-Marie Crofts of Codfathers’ Seafood Market in Kelowna.

Destination Osoyoos hopes “Shucker Paddy” — Patrick McMurray, owner The Ceili Cottage Restaurant, Toronto, and former World Champion Oyster Shucker — will return.

ROSLYNE BUCHANAN

Last year’s hit, the Beach BBQ & Brews, moves to Walnut Beach, Friday evening, April 20. Leveraging the pool deck and beach, there’s tiki lighting with seating right on the beach. Sample oysters or other seafood creations prepared on deck barbecues by local chefs with tastings by local cideries, breweries and distillers. Irish and Canadian whiskeys are featured: Watch for Colin MacDougall, Canadian Whiskey Brand Ambassador for Western Canada, showcasing products such as J.P. Wisers, Lot 40, Gooderham & Worts and Pike Creek, along with Ciara Cannon, Jameson Brand Ambassador. (As part of the weekend, MacDougall and Cannon offer a whiskey and oyster master class with limited ticket availability.)

Sponsored in part by Oliver Osoyoos Winery Association, the Deep Sea Garden Party and Art of the Pearl Gala return. For the

three signature events, shuttle service by OK Wine Shuttle is included in the ticket price.

The Deep Sea Garden Party takes place Saturday afternoon, April 21, at Watermark Beach Resort. Amid a musical backdrop, local wineries, breweries and cideries are featured with fresh-shucked East and West Coast oysters. New last year is The Garden Market, where local vendors offer samples and products for sale, including a Pint o’ Prawns featuring BC spot prawns.

The Art of the Pearl Gala is at Spirit Ridge, Saturday night, April 21. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes to vie for prizes. The gala begins with light canapes and sparkling wine in the Conference Centre’s lovely courtyard. The main event spotlights 10 local chefs/restaurants’ seafood creations, and 20 wineries sharing samples, 7 to 9:30 pm, with live entertainment, plus awards for the

best dish and best wine pairing. Once again “grab bags” are offered for sale, with chances to win authentic pearl jewelry, cookbooks, gift certificates, wine and other goodies. After the wine and food service, festivities continue with dancing and a cash bar.

Confirmed partner events: The Miradoro Long Table Dinner, 6:30 pm, Wednesday, April 18, starts with freshly shucked oysters followed by a three-course meal; Under the Tuscan Sea, Terrafina at Hester Creek by RauDZ, 6:30 pm, Thursday, April 19, a stand-up reception to graze stations of oysters and pizza while sipping bubbly from Hester Creek and its neighbours.

For details and tickets, plus information on special Oysterfest packages offered

by Osoyoos hotels and resorts, visit destinationosoyoos.com/ooysterfest.

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TA PPE N O S OYO O S

A Touch of the Mediterranean IN THE MIDDLE OF THE OKANAGAN LESLEY BUXTON

Adega on 45th Estate Winery is the perfect combination of old world tradition and new world opportunity. The tasting room, housed in the façade of a terracotta, Mediterranean-style architecture, reflects the Portuguese heritage of the family who owns and operates it. The dramatic landscape surrounding it is distinctively Okanagan.

The family began its relationship with this land in the 1960s and it shows in the quality of the wine. Owners Alex Nunes and Fred

Farinha were orchardists until 2005 when they began to grow grapes.

They built the estate together, even paving the tiles on the tasting room floor and the patio. The other half of the team, wives Pamela and Maria, work the front of the house, running the tasting room and getting to know their clientele. This hands-on philosophy creates an intimacy that is often missing on larger estates. The day I visited, Alex was busy checking out a shipment of new French oak barrels.

The tasting room is comfortable with an inviting bar. Wine, local art, family photographs and memorabilia fill the shelves. I try the estate’s Portao (Port Style), made with Merlot grapes and spirits for fortification. It tastes of dark fruit, plum and blackcurrant — delicious.

During the season, the winery has prepared picnic lunches which can be enjoyed out on the patio with a glass of wine. This is the ideal place to relax with family and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Osoyoos.

Recline Ridge DAVID WYLIE

The Shuswap may be best known for house-boating, but Recline Ridge Vineyards & Winery in Tappen is helping showcase the region as a premier wine destination.

Located near Salmon Arm, the winery is Canada’s second-most northern winery.

“The Shuswap region, if you were to look at it from a scenic point of view, is quite green. It’s actually referred to sometimes as the Shuswap rainforest,” said Graydon Ratzlaff, who owns Recline Ridge with his wife, Maureen.

“We’re trying to promote the region and what we can do up here. It sets us apart.”

Recline Ridge is luring the adventurous wine tourist — “the ones who are willing

Recline Ridge Hwy #1Winery West to Kamloops

Recline Ridge Winery

Recline Ridge Winery

A SHUSWAP WINE DESTINATION to look in other directions than mainstream wines,” he said.

The winery has 13 wines in its portfolio, including whites, reds, a rose and dessert wines.

“People always ask me, ‘what’s my favourite wine?’ But they’re like kids — they’re all my favourite,” he laughed.

“To demonstrate the range that we have and the wonderful nature of these wines, I always love the Bacchus,” he said. “And certainly our Foch — it turns a lot of heads.”

Despite its northern location, Recline Ridge’s vineyards enjoy sun-drenched days and cool evenings that help the varietal characteristics pop, setting the stage for award-winning wines.

Hwy #1 West to Kamloops

Exit Trans-Canada Hwy. #1 at Tappen Valley Road

Exit Trans-Canada Hwy. #1 at Tappen Valley Road

Hwy #1 West to Kamloops

RECLINE RIDGE 2460 SKIMIKIN ROAD

Hwy #1 to Salmon Arm, Vernon, Kelowna

TAPPEN VALLEY ROAD

If you’re looking for an occasion to visit the estate, consider its upcoming annual Father’s Day event on Sunday, June 17.

This celebration is a catered event. Past highlights include tasting stations, wine pairing and lots of music.

Beginning in March, Adega is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Visit soon — you won’t be disappointed. There’s an appreciation of the good things in life here: fine wine, delicious food and family, making it a place you’ll want to return to again and again.

Hwy #1 to Salmon Arm, Vernon, Kelowna

HWY #1 TO KAMLOOPS

Exit Trans-Canada

Open 7 days a week 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Closed January and February unless otherwise posted.

Highway 3 (Osoyoos) turn on 45th St., East Osoyoos, BC

250 495 6243 www.adegaon45.com

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Hwy. #1 HWY #1 EXIT TRANSCANADA at Tappen Valley AT TAPPEN VALLEY RoadROAD

HWY #1 TO VERNON

OPENING HOURS: Hwy #1

12PM – 5 PM April, May & October 11AM – 5 PM June & September 10AM – 5 PM July & August to Salmon Arm, Vernon, Kelowna

S

avour the flavours of our unique, award-winning vintages, and experience the harmony of our wines and this peaceful setting in the beautiful Shuswap.

2640 Skimikin Rd., Tappen, B.C. Phone 250-835-2212

Visits between Nov. 1-March 31 are by appointment Visit our website at: www.reclineridgewinery.com

M AR KETPL ACE ARMSTRO N G SALM O N ARM

Go off the Beaten Path AND SEE WHERE THE OKANAGAN BEGINS! It’s perhaps an over-quoted phrase, but one that’s frankly often under-appreciated.

Quite simply put, “the best adventures to be had are off the beaten path.”

Now, here in the Okanagan it’s easy to think there’s little that could possibly be off the beaten path – but you might be surprised if you swing your car north from Kelowna and follow the mountains up past Vernon. Up here the road flattens out and the valley floor sinks into a vast expanse of picturesque rolling farmland. This is where you’ll find the dual communities of Armstrong and Spallumcheen.

This is the perfect place to start your

BLAKE ALLEN

Okanagan adventure because this is where the Okanagan Valley begins!

When travelling off the beaten path, one should seek out the locals first to learn the best places to explore. Fortunately, this step is easy up here. Right off Highway 97 on Bridge Street sits the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Centre. It’s a modest little building nestled behind a mighty maple tree that very well may be older than the town itself. The staff here are warm, welcoming and more than happy to offer visitors advice on where to discover one of their town’s hidden gems. You’re more than likely to hear a few town tales while you’re here too!

Those who visit the family-run winery are treated to a cosy family experience, said winery manager, Roman Manser.

“Any time somebody comes up here, they’ll be dealing with DAVID WYLIE somebody tied in family-wise. There’s always that one-on-one with people who are involved from start to finish.”

Larch Hills Former Alberta dairy farmer Jack Winery is on top of the world — at Manser bought the winery in 2005, and least it feels like it. his sons — Roman and Wayne — soon followed him Located in Salmon Arm, it’s the highest to the Okanagan to help. elevation winery in BC at 800 metres.

“This year we’re going to release a Cabernet Despite having a shorter growing season due to its northern location, the south-facing Sauvignon for the first time, so that’s something to look forward to,” he said, adding the grapes were slope manages to soak up the sunshine. sourced from the Similkameen.

Larch Hills specializes in Ortega, taking “This will be our first crack at it. So far the wine is advantage of European varietals that thrive coming along really nicely.” in the Shuswap region. They also grow It’s expected to be released in late summer.

Siegerrebe, Madeline Angevine and Agria.

AN ELEVATED

Experience

The wine scene up here is young, but already living up to the prestigious reputation of this valley. The cheese scene is significantly older, and among one of the best-known regions on the continent. Armstrong takes its cheese seriously, with the industry’s roots here dating back to 1902. At one point, this humble little city was the second largest cheese producer in Canada. There’s a Spring Market featuring local produce, among other events. The Visitor Centre here offers an online calendar of events for the area. So start planning your Okanagan adventure now, at the place where it all begins!

Strictly Cellars & Accessories Wine Care Specialists •Wine Cellars from 50 to 500 bottles • Wine Racking & Cooling Systems • Wine Accessories & Glassware

250-448-7225 or 1-866-396-7225

www.strictlycellars.com www.strictlYcellars.com

Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce

Visit Us In Armstrong & Spallumcheen

2018 Food & Wine Events Farmers’ Market OUTDOOR

APRIL - OCTOBER

INDOOR

NOVEMBER - MARCH

Jack Manser & Family 110 Timms Road, Salmon Arm, BC 250-832-0155

www.larchhillswinery.com

Save the Date Cheese...

It’s a natural!

November 3rd

Fruits and vegetables in season late April to late October.

Cheese, wine, chocolate and grains available year round.

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2017 Fruit Wine of The Year All Canadian Wine Championships

CASSIS DESSERT WINE Double Gold Winner Best Fruit Wine of the Year 6179 - 248th St Langley, BC 604-856-5757 KRAUSEBERRYFARMS.COM 26

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Get Away TO THE FARM DARCY NYBO

Make it an adventure and spend a day at Krause Berry Farms. Its picturesque 200 acres are good for the soul.

This is more than a farm. It’s also home to Krause Berry Farms Estate Winery and Restaurant. This oasis is open on weekends from now until May. After that, you can have the Krause Berry Farm experience any day of the week.

The restaurant and winery opened in 2012 as owners Alf and Sandee Krause looked for a way to show visitors the literal fruits of their labour.

“We are growers first,” said Sandee, “and this is a great way to showcase the products that are grown right here.”

The Estate Winery is the perfect place to bring family and friends to enjoy a farmgrown and farm-prepared dish and sample some delicious fruit wines.

“When we designed the place, we decided to put real saddles on stools at the bar for a total western experience,” said Sandee.

Saddle up and enjoy mouth-pleasing rhubarb, apple, blueberry, blackberry, strawberry, tayberry, cassis and raspberry table wines. If you come for dinner on a Friday night, try the blackberry portoe — a port-style fruit wine perfect for sipping after a meal. They also have sparkling and dessert wines to round out your fruit wine collection.

You can thank winemaker Sandra Lee for the delectable fruit wines created here. In the few years the winery has been open, it’s garnered numerous awards including the 2017 Best Fruit Wine in Canada at the Canadian Wine Championships in Niagara Falls.

LANGLEY Guests are encouraged to share plates or lunch with family and friends.

“The kids love coming here for waffles and pie,” said Sandee, “ and so do the adults. We’ve created a great family friendly experience here.”

Chef Jeremy creates a fresh sheet menu for Friday nights during the peak season.

He uses foods picked fresh from the Krause Berry Farm garden and other ingredients that are supplied by local farmers.

A must-try is the hot berry waffles or a slice of warm pie a’la mode from the farmto-table lunch menu. You can also enjoy grilled cheese sandwiches, roasted corn pizza, a delicious seasonal fruit and cheese board, as well as other signature doublecrust pies.

There’s really no need to wait to head to Krause Berry Farms. After you’ve sipped and savoured, enjoyed and eaten, make sure you take home a bit of the goodness found here. They have pies, soups and IQF berries, frozen and perfect to enjoy another day.

There’s also delicious jams, jellies and syrups made from the fruits of the farm.

Every season has something new to enjoy.

“In the summer months, we have everything from fudge and creamery ice cream to local vegetables, berries and baked goods,” said Sandee. “In the fall, there’s a living Barley Maze, u-pick pumpkin patch and festivals for the whole family. For the holidays, the farm becomes a winter wonderland with fresh trees, decorations and delicious baked goods.”

Krause Berry Farms is truly the place to visit for all the farm fresh flavours your whole family will love.

SU MMER L AN D

As Executive Winery Chef, JEREMY LUYPEN JOINS SUMMERHILL’S CULINARY REVOLUTION With a grin as quick as his wit, Jeremy Luypen enthusiastically digs into his role as Executive Winery Chef at Summerhill Pyramid Winery. It’s a pivotal post joining the Cipes family and Winemaker Eric von Krosigk in the quest for uncompromising quality.

CEO Ezra Cipes commented on Chef Luypen’s vision for Summerhill’s extensive culinary program, saying, “I can’t even express how excited our whole team is to work with Chef Luypen. Our little wine region is changing and growing so fast, and with Chef Luypen’s help, you are going to see major, creative evolution going on at Summerhill.”

Located for more than 25 years in Kelowna’s Lakeshore district, Summerhill is Canada’s largest certified organic winery and BC’s first Demeter-certified biodynamic vineyard. It is Canada’s foremost producer of sparkling wine, and home to the acclaimed Sunset Organic Bistro, a 200-seat restaurant with a panoramic view of Okanagan Lake.

The bistro serves food grown and raised by local organic producers, including Summerhill's own permaculture-style vegetable garden.

That onsite capacity of high-quality organic produce is where you’ll literally find Chef Luypen digging with Gabe Cipes, biodynamicist/permaculturist. Chef Luypen loves being a gardener and delights in seeing bees return to the property. He takes the key benefit in this prestigious position seriously in that he can leverage his culinary leadership with increased say in what’s grown and used in Summerhill’s cuisine.

His expertise in farm-to-table Okanagan cuisine is a bonus for Summerhill, as is his ability to oversee a complex food operation. Most recently in charge of five kitchen outlets at Predator Ridge Resort, a 1,000-home golf development, just south of Vernon, Chef Luypen is no stranger to juggling expectations. He’s done it all — from lavish weddings and celebrity charity golf tournaments to drop-in dining guests and golfers grabbing a quick bite between nines.

Chef Luypen and his family are pleased he is cooking in Kelowna again — something he hasn’t done since 2010. Without the long commute, he hopes to better balance his family and career commitments, plus continue as substitute instructor in Okanagan College’s culinary program. There and at work, Chef Luypen finds mentoring and

ROSLYNE BUCHANAN

teaching young cooks rewarding and strives to inspire the same love and encouragement that his culinary instructors imparted in him.

A basketball scholarship brought him to Kelowna from the Fraser Valley. With a year left to play ball and his pursuit of a Bachelor of Arts becoming less fulfilling, he switched into the culinary program. It was one of those moments that makes a parent smile as his mother reminded him he’d written in his Grade Seven yearbook that he wanted to be a chef. At a young age, he enjoyed cooking for family and friends and has now discovered a career suited to his passion.

Graduating top of his class, he then worked at the Chicago Chophouse in Calgary, The Eldorado Hotel in Kelowna and Passa Tempo at Spirit Ridge Resort in Osoyoos, before partnering with April Goldade in Terrafina Restaurant at Hester Creek Estate Winery. He sold that to pursue new challenges at Predator Ridge.

Despite his Dutch heritage, Chef Luypen favours Italian cuisine.

“I’m not a big pasta or risotto eater, rather I love the Italian flavour profile. Take the freshness of lemon juice, capers, olives and oils to enhance local produce. Find the best tomato, peach or greens and elevate the natural goodness instead of masking it.”

Chef Luypen continues, “Pairing with fine wine and crafting harmony on your palate is exciting. I love sparkling wine so I’m especially keen to design an all-sparkling five-course dinner.”

Impressed by Summerhill’s commitment to give guests an outstanding experience, Chef Luypen looks forward to developing its food program.

“I love Stephen Cipes’ vision of providing an international flair with the addition of a container kitchen by the outdoor tasting lounge. With a rotating menu offering unique cuisines, it’ll keep visitors and regulars enthused.”

Using the container kitchen and creating a food hall, Chef Luypen sees the flexibility of addressing emerging trends such as vegan, gluten-free, plant-based dishes that add protein and ocean-wise choices. Okanagan Chefs Association president, consummate volunteer and keen Chefs-in-the-Classroom advocate, Chef Luypen subscribes wholeheartedly to Summerhill’s culinary revolution.

With a track record of embracing community causes along with his wife, he is eager to explore Summerhill’s initiative to provide schools with a healthy options lunch program.

Stay tuned at summerhill.bc.ca

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www.summerhillpyramid.com