Food & Wine Trails December 2022

TINHORN CREEK VINEYARDS IS HOSTING THE EVENTS OF THE SEASON

JENNA HICKMAN

This winter season, spend a cozy afternoon taking in the picturesque view of the snow-topped Southern Okanagan while sipping on a glass of Tinhorn Creek wine.

Located on the Golden Mile Bench in Oliver, BC, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards offers 180-degree views of the heart of the Okanagan’s wine country. With rows upon rows of snow-capped vineyards, you will think you’ve been transported to the set of a Hallmark film.

Plus, until temperatures really drop, Tinhorn Creek’s new heated patio will be open, so visitors can take in the fresh air while staying warm.

Since 1993, Tinhorn Creek has been a long-standing staple in the Okanagan’s winery repertoire. For almost three decades, the winery has focused on growing the best grapes and producing exceptional wines, all while respecting the land.

UPCOMING EVENTS

With many upcoming events at Tinhorn Creek, this season is the perfect time to explore the estate.

For instance, from December 3 to 5, the winery will be hosting Winter With Wine Country. Cozy up next to the Christmas tree with hot chocolate, mulled wine and delicious nibbles.

For more information about Tinhorn Creek’s upcoming events, please visit their website or follow them on social media.

TASTINGS AT TINHORN

If you’re unable to attend one of Tinhorn Creek’s events, you're always welcome at the estate for one of their signature tastings.

If you want to taste something a little different during your visit, you can try the Black Glass Tasting. This tasting includes four wines, each hidden inside opaque black glassware. If you’re able to correctly guess two out of the four wines, your tasting fee will be waived.

If guessing games aren’t quite up your alley, Tinhorn Creek also offers a classic stemware tasting where the winery teammates educate guests on the specific stemware most appropriate for each varietal. Pair your wine experience with a delectable charcuterie board that showcases the best local ingredients the Okanagan has to offer.

For those looking for a more intimate experience, you can join the winery’s Crush Club, and have your tasting in the Crush Club Lounge. In addition to complimentary tastings, wine club members receive exclusive access to new wine releases, and 15 per cent discounts on Tinhorn Creek wine and merchandise.

During your tasting, you might even be lucky enough to try one of the winery’s newest releases: their 2021 Pinot Noir or their Barrel Lot Cabernet Franc. These favourites won’t last long—visit the winery today to pick up a bottle or two!

Tinhorn Creek is also now offering daily features.

Merchandise Monday’s

Enjoy 10 per cent off select merchandise items and gift baskets.

Two for One Tuesdays

Guests can buy one tasting flight and receive the second for free!

Wine down Wednesdays

Tastings will be paired with a sweet treat.

Tapas Thursdays

When paired with a tasting, small bites will be 50 per cent off.

Vertical Fridays

Every week, the winery will change the line-up in the enomatic wine tasting system to offer a vertical tasting.

Somm Saturdays

Black glass tastings will be 50 per cent off.

Savvy Sundays

Wine lovers can enjoy 10 per cent off featured cases of wine (Crush Club members will also receive the additional member discount).

HOLIDAY GIFTS

While visiting the winery, why not do a little holiday shopping?

Tinhorn Creek has everything the wine lovers in your life could possibly dream of. From stemware, decanters and locally crafted candles to Tinhorn Creek Gewürztraminerand Merlot-flavoured wine jellies, the winery has something for everybody’s holiday stocking.

Tinhorn Creek is open seven days a week from 11 am until 5 pm in December, and 11 am until 4 pm in January.

For more information about the winery and the wine club, to book a wine tasting, or to inquire about the upcoming summer concert series, please contact 1-888-484-6467, visit tinhorn.com, follow @tinhorncreek on Instagram, or book a tasting through My Wine Country.

FIND YOUR HOLIDAY SPIRITS THIS YEAR AT URBAN DISTILLERY AND WINERY

BLAKE ALLEN

Dreaming of a White Christmas? Or maybe you’d prefer a Kringle Crantini instead? Either way you’ll find a glass of the season spirit all month long at West Kelowna’s Urban Distilleries and Winery. Conveniently located on Highway 97, this multi-award-winning distillery is putting a festive twist on the celebrated small batch spirits that they’ve been crafting here for ten years.

FESTIVE SPIRITS

Open year-round and well into the evening on most nights, guests are welcome to stop by the tasting bar for complimentary single tastings or $10 flights. Feel free to strike up a chat with the friendly and knowledgeable staff about the distilling process or just browse the shop for last minute gift ideas such as one of their cocktail kits, which include virtually all the ingredients (and recipe cards) necessary for you to recreate one of their original festive cocktails at home.

SIT AND ENJOY

But to really soak in the festive cheer, make your way over to Shakers Cocktail Lounge and Restaurant, a stylistically modern and newly renovated lounge inside the distillery where guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and delicious food. There’s always something going on here to help you warm up from the winter winds outside; be it live jazz and blues every Wednesday and open mic night on Tuesdays, NFL game days on Thursdays and Sundays, or their always popular eggs benny brunch held every Sunday. Hop online for more information on events and information on reservations for private events and office parties (www. urban-distilleries.com).

The tasting bar is open every day of the week; noon to 9 pm on Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10 am to 6 pm on Sundays, and noon to 6 pm on Mondays. Shakers Cocktail Lounge and Restaurant is open from 4 pm to 9 pm Tuesdays to Thursdays, Noon to 9 pm on Fridays to Saturdays, and 10 am to 6 pm on Sundays.

TOAST THE SEASON WITH SUMMERHILL CIPES SPARKLING

ROSLYNE BUCHANAN

Summerhill Pyramid Winery's multiple-internationalaward-winning Cipes line of sparkling wines are a cause for celebration. Summerhill’s winemaking approach and stewardship of the Okanagan’s incredible terroir, nurturing organic and biodynamic vineyards, has resulted in perpetual acclaim.

BLANC DE BLANC 2012

Wine writer and judge Natalie MacLean awarded 93 points to Summerhill’s Blanc de Blanc 2012, proclaiming: “Absolutely top-notch, premium sparkling wine made with 100 per cent Chardonnay grapes. This Blanc de Blanc is toasty, creamy, rich and refreshing.” Noting aromas of “freshly baked bread and golden apples., she deemed it a perfect chilled apéritif or companion to shellfish, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Okanagan Chardonnay grapes are carefully chosen for low sugar and naturally high acidity, then whole-cluster-pressed. Extended sur lie aging (7.5 years minimum) and disgorging in small batches reveals dazzling, complex sparkling wine with lemon, key lime, brioche, hazelnut and lime pith notes. Feel a delicate creamy mousse, medium body, refreshing acidity and a long, lingering finish.

TRADITIONAL METHOD REAPS REWARDS

Discover Summerhill’s winemaking methods and fruit selection at summerhill.bc.ca. Learn the composition of 2004 Traditional Cuvée, aged sur lie 18 years and emptied in small batches. Intense aromas of honeyed yellow apple, caramel, toasted nuts and earthy umami precede penetrating marmalade, ginger and key lime pie flavours. Seashell minerality, ultracreamy mousse and mouthwatering acidity refresh the palate. Pair with with confit chicken, mushroom terrine, roasted bone marrow, or even french fries!

Of the striking Premier Cuvée 2000 Ariel, British wine expert Steven Spurrier (Decanter magazine, and organizer of the 1976 “Judgement of Paris” competition) gave it 95 points saying, “This is a really, really good wine."

Complex and mature with vibrant primary fruit, creamy lemon custard, warm brioche, candied orange, lemon zest, ripe apple, dried apricot, walnut and ginger on the palate. This is attained through crafting in the traditional method and aging 17.5 years sur lie before disgorgement in small batches. Ariel pairs beautifully with baked oysters, Dungeness crab, and goat cheese in phyllo pastry.

photography by Shelby A Schmauder.

TOURISM KELOWNA OFFERS WAYS TO SUPPORT LOCAL, GET DEALS AND WIN

While Kelowna has a reputation as a summer destination, winter in the city can be just as stunning.

Snowy mountains frame the Okanagan Valley, and the peaceful, glassy water of Okanagan Lake instills an idyllic calm.

The mild climate and relaxed atmosphere make the winter months perfect for locals to explore the restaurants, wineries and attractions that make the Central Okanagan such a draw for visitors from all over the world.

REWARDS FOR EXPLORING THE KELOWNA AREA

Tourism Kelowna has made exploring at home fun and rewarding with two passes designed for locals: the #exploreKelowna Local Savings Pass and the #exploreKelowna Wine Trails Passport.

They are both easy to sign up for on tourismkelowna.com. There are no apps to download; instead, the passes are delivered through text and email and redeemed on mobile.

LOCAL SAVINGS ON FOOD, DRINKS AND FUN

The Local Savings Pass has exclusive discounts and offers for restaurants, attractions, accommodations and other local fun.

There are also some great cash prizes for redeeming at least five offers in a month, including monthly prizes worth $500, as well as a grand prize worth $2,500.

There are more than 60 participating businesses on the Local Savings Pass, including wineries, breweries and distilleries. Examples of deals to be had include:

• Complimentary upgrade to a small lot portfolio tasting at Sandhill Wines in downtown Kelowna

• 20 per cent off massage and esthetics at Eldorado Resort

• Complimentary wine tasting and 10 per cent off in-store purchases at Meadow Vista Honey Wines

• Free Rebel tasting at Forbidden Spirits Distilling Co.

• 2-for-1 admission at the Kelowna Art Gallery

• 20 per cent off Love for Kelowna and Kelowna Vibes products at the Kelowna Visitor Centre

• Complimentary tasting for two at Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery

• 2-for-1 experience at Peak Cellars

• 10 per cent off a tour with Moccasin Trails

• 20 per cent off the dining bill at OAK + CRU Social Kitchen & Wine Bar

• 10 per cent off tours from Okanagan Foodie Tours

• Free coffee at Sprout Bread

• 2-for-1 tastings and 5 per cent off wine purchases at Priest Creek Family Estate Winery

• 20 per cent off your order at WINGS Kelowna

Do keep in mind that when redeeming offers from the pass, businesses may need proof that you’re a resident of the Central Okanagan.

Everyone who redeems five offers in a month will be entered into the grand prize draw for $1,000 towards accommodation, $1,000 towards activities, attractions and tours, and $500 towards food and drink.

PASSPORT FOR TOURING WINERIES

The off-season is a great time to explore Central Okanagan wineries. It’s less crowded inside tasting rooms, and the vineyards are gorgeous with a light dusting of snow. Many wineries are open year-round.

The Central Okanagan has five different wine trails to check out: Lakeshore Wine Route, Westside Wine Trail, Lake Country's Scenic Sip, Downtown's Grapes to Grains, and Sip South East Kelowna.

To make the wine-hopping experience even more enjoyable (and affordable), Tourism Kelowna offers a Wine Trails Passport.

The passport, which features 15 top locations, is available to use until the end of 2022. Benefits range from complimentary tastings to discounts on drinks and bottles.

Those who check in at five different wineries to redeem the deals will have the chance to win two cases of wine.

EVEN MORE TO DO IN KELOWNA

There are lots of activities and experiences in Kelowna when the snow flies.

Stuart Park downtown is a popular winter attraction with a free outdoor rink— complete with a Zamboni to keep the ice pristine and a fire pit for warming up chilly fingers.

Knox Mountain Park, just north of downtown, makes for a beautiful winter hike with rewarding views of the city.

There are also lots of indoor activities to stay out of inclement weather. In downtown Kelowna’s Cultural District, there’s a museum and art gallery to check out, boutiques to browse, craft breweries to visit, restaurants to sample, and coffee shops to order a warm drink.

It’s easy to participate in Tourism Kelowna’s Local Savings Pass and Wine Trails Passport.

First, sign up on the Tourism Kelowna website (tourismkelowna.com). Once you’ve entered your information, you’ll receive a text message with a link to your Local Savings Pass or Wine Trails Passport.

To participate, pull up the location you’re visiting and click the offer or check in. An employee from the location can help you redeem the applicable offer.

Waterfront Park, Photo Credit: tourismkelowna.com – Shawn Talbot Photography

Hotel Eldorado, Photo Credit: tourismkelowna.com – Meghan Reading

Photo Credit: tourismkelowna.com

– Darren Hull Studios

Gift List

There were dozens of great gift ideas on our cover this issue. Look for these fun gifts for the wine lover and foody in your life at your favourite BC wineries.

Between Friends 2021 Riesling (National Wine Awards of Canada 2022 Silver Medal Winner) — The Gallery Winery

Introducing Ann 2018 Malbec — The Gallery Winery

2019 Single Vineyard Gewürztraminer — Volcanic Hills Estate Winery

2016 Eruption, a plush Bordeaux-style blend —Volcanic Hills Estate Winery

2020 Pinot Gris and 2019 Pinot Noir, Kissan Vineyards — Volcanic Hills Estate Winery

Evolve Gin, colour-changing gin with proceeds supporting gender equality — Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

Raspberry Liqueur, Prohibition edition — Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

Paul’s Tomb Gin, New Western Dry style — Urban Distilleries & Winery

The North Calls Dill Pickle Vodka, for the ultimate Caesar — Urban Distilleries & Winery

The BC Wine Lover’s Cookbook: Recipes & Stories from Wineries Across British Columbia — Jennifer Schell

Wine glasses — Riedel, The Wine Glass Company Julienas decanter — Oenophilia Raincoast Crisps — Lesley Stowe Hot Sauce — Mum’s Okanagan Sauce Co. Flake Sea Salt, hand-harvested from the Canadian Pacific — Vancouver Island Sea Salt

Multi-product gift pack — Taste of the Okanagan Bruschetta and Cranberry Jalapeño Jelly — Taste of the Okanagan Breaking Bland Chutney Gift Set — Luv the Grub Blueberry Vanilla Spread and Peachy Caramel Spread — Rad Jamz Neapolitan Herb Balsamic Vinegar and Wild Rosemary Olive Oil — Olivia’s Hellish Relish, “sweet, sassy and a little bad-assy” — She Devil Delights

Kringle Crantini

1 oz. Spirit Bear Cranberry Vodka

1 oz. Spirit Bear Gin

1/2 oz. Simple Syrup

1/2 oz. fresh lime juice

Shake all ingredients with ice, Garnish with cranberries.

RECIPE COURTESY OF URBAN DISTILLERIES

Nestled on Naramata Road in the Southern Okanagan region, Red Rooster Winery is a tucked-away gem for wine lovers.

As the leaves on the trees start to fall, and pillowy snow starts to blanket the hills, Red Rooster Winery is an idyllic place to cozy up with friends and family and sip on awardwinning wines.

Matching the freshly fallen snow, the white-painted estate is as much a landmark due to its longstanding presence as it is a landmark in the winemaking industry.

Established in 1990 by a European couple who settled in the area, the estate was built with salvaged wood from the original Naramata train dock. Seven years later, Red Rooster’s first vintage was released, and ever since, the winery has been representing the Okanagan Valley on a national level.

NEW RELEASES

To ring in the winter season, the winery is releasing some new and exciting wines that showcase the exceptional work of head winemaker Elaine Vickers.

Since joining Red Rooster in 2019, Vickers has been leading the team and producing remarkable wines. With a master’s degree in molecular biology from the University of Victoria and a graduate degree in oenology from the University of Adelaide in Australia, Vickers is a force to be reckoned with. Her extensive viticulture knowledge, particularly in the Okanagan region, translates to producing delicious and innovative wines.

This season, the winery is releasing its first 100 per cent Petit Verdot. This variety is one of Vickers’ favorites, and with this latest release, it’s no question why.

“She’s done such an amazing job with it. It’s an absolute triumph,” said Burke Ganton, Red Rooster’s assistant retail manager. “Its inky colour is really indicative of its taste: smooth, yet with a really nice tannin hit, and incredible legs on the finish.”

A perfect pairing for the holiday festivities, this wine is exclusively available at the winery. Additionally, Red Rooster is releasing their 100 per cent Semillon.

“This is a brand-new wine,” said Ganton. “The grapes were picked a bit early in order to keep the acid notes a bit higher. It’s a beautiful zesty wine with notes of chamomile, beeswax and a touch of citrus. We’re so lucky to have a winemaker of Elaine’s calibre, where we’re not only trying new things, but we’re hitting the mark.”

This season Red Rooster is also releasing their 100 per cent Malbec, 100 per cent Malbec Rosé and 100 per cent sparkling Malbec.

If you’re wondering what to give this holiday season, Red Rooster’s diverse portfolio of wines ensures there’s something that everyone will enjoy.

To stay up to date on all Red Rooster’s latest releases, and have first access to newly released wines, join their Wine Club. In addition to being the first to know about releases, you’ll receive complimentary in-house tastings for yourself and three guests, and a 15 per cent discount on Red Rooster wines and merchandise.

HOLIDAY WINE PAIRINGS

With the holidays come tables practically overflowing with mouthwatering morsels and decadent desserts. Sometimes it can be difficult to decipher which wines to pair with which foods. That’s where the experts at Red Rooster come in.

If you’re unsure of what wines to pair with your holiday feasts, you can call the winery and the knowledgeable staff will be happy to share their expertise.

For a lovely sipping wine, you can’t go wrong with the sparkling Malbec. A sparkling rosé, produced in the traditional method, the sparkling Malbec has beautiful berry notes, making it a Yuletide favorite.

If you’re looking for a wine to pair with your meal, Red Rooster’s Dry Riesling belongs on your holiday table. With bright acidity and tart apple notes, this wine is able to cut through the richness of most holiday meals.

For snuggling up by the fireplace, any one of Red Rooster’s bold, warm reds is the perfect match.

Red Rooster is also offering two festive Winter Wine Experiences from November 25 until December 23.

For those who love cocktails, the Wine Cocktail flight is for you. From a Syrah hot chocolate to a Pinot Gris cranberry spritzer, you’ll sip on five wine cocktails that are perfect accompaniments to your holiday parties. Recipes will be included so you can share the cocktails throughout the holidays.

Did you ever think to pair your favorite holiday cookies with a glass of wine? For example, a lemon sugar cookie alongside a glass of refreshing Viognier is a must try. If you want to learn more wine and cookie pairings, Red Rooster’s Cookies and Wine flight is for you. Tasters will get to try a flight of four wines deliciously paired with holiday cookies.

Red Rooster Winery is open 12 to 5 pm, seven days a week. For more information about the wine club, tastings, or the winery, visit redroosterwinery.com or call 250-492-2424.

BEYOND EXPECTATIONS

LocatedonthebeautifulNaramataBench,withunobstructedviewsof pristinelandscapesoverlookingOkanaganLake,weareopen year-roundtowelcomeyou.

Ourwineandfoodofferingschangethroughouttheyeartoreflecteach season.Joinusforatruewinecountryexperiencewithoneofour educational,seatedwinetastings.

Thisyear,introducingnewwinterwineexperiences: WineCocktailsflightsandCookies&Wineflight. AvailablefromNovember25thuntilDecember23rd.

Opendaily.Visitusonlineorcall1-888-505-5537 toreserveyourseattoday. www.redroosterwinery.com

WINTER IN OSOYOOS IS A WARM SNUGGLE

Taking a twist from the lyrics on Don Henley (of the Eagles), “after the boys of summer have gone,” Osoyoos continues to beckon with Canada’s warmest welcome. Sure, the beach scene has changed. Still, beautiful vistas remain and there is much to explore. Confirm the seasonal hours and details at destinationosoyoos.com before you embark on your adventures. Then, settle into a relaxed pace and delve deeply to reveal the region’s hidden gems.

GET INTO THE SPIRIT WITH BREWERIES, CIDERIES, DISTILLERIES AND WINERIES

Gazing out your window at snow-dusted vineyards, you may feel frosty at first. Chase away your chills in cozy tasting rooms with warm reds and whites and bubbly wines as crisp and cool as the fresh snow. Less pressed for time, folks at tasting rooms that remain open or welcome you by appointment can share their stories with you more personally.

Easy-to-find local wineries in Osoyoos include Lakeside Cellars, Nk’Mip Cellars, Bordertown, and Adega on 45th. Follow a winery map or get onboard with one of several tour companies that offer exceptional itineraries. Plus, you don’t have to travel far in the South Okanagan and Similkameen to visit more BC wineries. Explore breweries, cideries and distilleries, too. Tumbleweed Spirits Craft Distillery offers a variety of great spirits and a cocktail lounge where you can linger to enjoy craft cocktails and bites. North Basin Brewing Co., located in the heart of Osoyoos, presents mainstay and seasonal craft beer for your discerning palate. Support another local business by ordering or bringing in food to pair with your beer, or nosh on local snacks from suppliers such as The Lake Village Bakery or Rooster Mafia Foods.

STIR UP YOUR SENSES WITH FOOD, WINE, AND WINTER EVENTS

Each December, the spirit of the holiday season kicks off with the Osoyoos Lite-Up and Parade. With Main Street bedecked like a Hallmark card, it’s easy to get into festivities as you peruse the shops and culinary treasures. Osoyoos is known for its streetside boutiques with vintage to practical goods, and you’ll discover unique finds for everyone on your list—including yourself!

Refuel at Osoyoos’s cozy cafes and bakeries as you plan your next stops and be sure to check out the list of Christmas artisan markets, such as those at The Art Gallery Osoyoos or the District Wine Village in Oliver. Don’t miss the Osoyoos Artisan Christmas Market in downtown Osoyoos on December 2 and 3!

Nk’Mip Cellars pride themselves as “dedicated guardians of a proud legacy” and the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America. They celebrate their colourful history through award-winning wines and all they do.

Dip into the past and present to learn the perfect wine for holiday festivities with Nk’Mip Cellars’ Food and Wine Pairing Experience. Tantalize your senses with food bites by Chef Ian Stilborn, inspired by the holiday season and paired with Nk’Mip Cellars wine. Book options between 11 am to 3 pm, Friday to Sunday, December 2 to 18. Or, take in the Nk’Mip Afternoon Wine Lounge, presented 3 to 5:30 pm, December 2 to 18. Reserve your seat to enjoy wines by the glass as you nibble on some of the chef’s inspired small plates. The Nk’Mip Cellars Monthly Dinner Series and Vertical Tasting Series are also tasty winter options.

Miradoro Restaurant at Tinhorn Creek offers Short Table Dinners on Tuesday evenings to December 27. Manuel Ferreira, Executive Chef Jeff Van Geest, Miradoro crew and occasional guest chefs present themed menus that will leave your tastebuds singing.

Osoyoos Performing Arts presents a concert series running all winter long, including "Christmas for a King" by Steve Elliott, the David Gogo Band, and Jack Semple, to name a few.

EMBRACE WINTER WELLNESS

Inhale the crisp, fresh air and embrace winter wellness. Whether for a hike in the region’s lovely pathways, or ski, snowboard and snowshoe activities above the snowline at Baldy Mountain, it’s invigorating to get outdoors.

Find your balance and reward yourself with some pampering at the local spas or settle into a lakeside resort for relaxation.

Where will you snuggle in Osoyoos this season?

Destination Osoyoos (@osoyoosbc) and Lionel Trudel (@lionel_trudel)

Darcy Nybo

SEASONAL SHOPPING MADE EASY

It’s that time of year again. A time for cozying up inside with family and friends after a day out in the fresh air and sunshine. And it’s the holiday season.

Buying gifts for family and friends can be frustrating and stressful, but the winemakers of BC have great options for all you gift-buyers out there: simply shop at their wineries.

Not long ago, BC wineries sold only wine. Today, you can find a myriad of goodies to give to almost everyone on your gift list. From Osoyoos to Prince George, from the Kootenays to Vancouver Island, there are 370 licensed wineries for you to choose from. Of these, many are open year-round for your sipping and shopping enjoyment. Those that aren’t open will still ship your favourite wines to you with enough advance notice. It’s always nice to pick out a few bottles of vino for your friends. Then there are the many BC-made products available for purchase online and in person.

Cookbooks that incorporate different ethnic foods, and help you choose which wine to pair with what, are always a hit. Then there are all those delicious preserves

RECIPES

made with fresh BC fruits and vegetables. You can get everything from jams and marmalades to bacon and beer ketchup and olives. Perhaps you’d prefer some fig balsamic vinegar or lime-infused oil. And those are just some of the food items available.

BC is chock full of creative folks, and you can find cheese boards, charcuterie boards, wooden appetizer plates with wine glass holders, cheese knives, place card easels—the list goes on and on. How about a nice funky wine apron, or some hand-carved wine stoppers?

Whatever you do, don’t forget the chocolate! Many BC wineries carry BC-made chocolate infused with everything from hot peppers to wine. Add in some gorgeous wine glasses and a tasteful decanter and you’ve made someone’s holiday very special.

Let’s not forget the rest of the libations made right here in BC. There are several fabulous distilleries who create the basics as well as unique spirits. There are also mulled wines, craft beer and ciders, as well as tasty treats like mead and fruit liqueurs.

Can’t get out to do your shopping? Not a problem. Dozens and dozens of online shopping options are available, and many of them do not charge a fee if you are a wine club member, or if your order is over a certain amount. They’re just a Google search away.

It’s important you also take the time to pick up a little something just for you. You’ll be glad you did.

Whatever you celebrate, we wish you all a happy and safe holiday season.

Featured on our cover this month is Harpreet Gidda. When she’s not busy making her list and checking it twice, she’s being an integral part of the Volcanic Hills family. Like with most small family-run businesses, she wears many hats, including those of strategic leader, administrator, storyteller and talented artist.

Volcanic Hills Estate Winery is a family-run winery located on the side of Mt. Boucherie in West Kelowna. Owned and operated by the Gidda family, their wine shop boasts the BC Interior’s largest selection of fine gifts for foodies and wine lovers, alongside their extensive portfolio of terroir-driven wines. You can find dozens and dozens of gifts at their location (2845 Boucherie Road) or in their online store. See our gift list for gift ideas shown on the cover.

RECIPES COURTESY OF THE BEAR, THE FISH, THE ROOT & THE BERRY

Sunflower Seed Romesco

450 g roasted red peppers (peeled and drained)

3 cloves garlic

Juice of 1 lemon

100 g sunflower seeds, roasted

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tbsp “choppy chop” (chopped mix of your favourite fresh herbs, e.g., flat-leaf parsley)

1 tsp salt

50 ml grapeseed oil

Combine all ingredients except grapeseed oil in food processor. Slowly add grapeseed oil while processing.

White Bean Sumac Spread

1 litre cooked navy beans

2 tsp salt

¼ cup lemon juice

grapeseed oil (to taste)

1 tbsp ground sumac

Place beans and salt in bowl of food processor.

With food processor running, add lemon juice, then slowly add the grapeseed oil. Process until desired consistency is reached. Stir in the ground sumac.

JENNA HICKMAN

Located between the Southern Okanagan towns of Osoyoos and Oliver, in Canada’s only officially designated desert, Black Hills Estate Winery is aptly known for its remarkable wine. The estate’s industrial and sleek design makes the winery’s striking architecture a landmark in the southern valley.

Constructed to reflect the linear quality of the vineyards, Black Hills’ Wine Experience Centre deftly balances between modest sophistication and awe-inspiring grandeur—just like their wines.

Surrounded by rolling vineyards, the Wine Experience Centre offers panoramic views of the valley, providing guests with the quintessential winery experience.

HOLIDAY TASTING EXPERIENCES

This holiday season, from November to January, Black Hills is hosting a variety of wine tasting experiences. Each day, a different experience will be offered. From cellar door exclusive wines to an educational pairing class, there’s something for everyone each day of the week at Black Hills.

SUNDAY: THE SECRET SOMMELIER EXPERIENCE

This is the perfect opportunity to meet (if you haven’t already) Black Hills’ superstar sommelier Khazan. With over 12 years of international hospitality experience working with brands such as Anantara Hotels & Resorts in Dubai, Marriott International, St. Regis Resort in the Maldives, and Taj Hotels & Resorts, Khazan will deliver an elevated and captivating tasting experience. This experience is $20 plus tax per guest.

MONDAY: WINEMAKER’S SELECTION EXPERIENCE

This experience is a great re-introduction to Black Hills’ signature styles of wine. Enjoy a flight of four wines consisting of Brut, Rosé, plus a featured white and red wine from their portfolio. Throughout the tasting, you’ll gain insight into Black Hills’ head winemaker and Master of Wine Ross Wise’s unique winemaking style. This experience is $16 plus tax per guest.

TUESDAY: THE EDUCATED GUEST EXPERIENCE

For wine lovers who want to improve their ability to describe various varietals, this experience is arguably the most fun of all. Through education and encouragement, guests will leave with more confidence in their wine knowledge, plus the ability to sound like a wine aficionado. This experience is $20 plus tax per guest.

WEDNESDAY: WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS

There’s nothing better than enjoying the vineyard views from the Wine Experience Centre lounge while sipping a flight of wine; that’s why this is the best wine Wednesday in town. Indulge in a flight for only $16 plus tax per guest.

THURSDAY: YOU HAD ME AT BUBBLES

Every great day either starts or ends—or both— with bubbles. Enjoy a glass of Black Hills’ cellar door exclusive, inaugural vintage of Brut while perusing their wine shop for stocking stuffers. It’s a chance to taste and purchase this wine that is only offered at the estate or online. This experience is $20 plus tax per guest.

FRIDAY: THE VERTICAL FLIGHT EXPERIENCE

Looking to celebrate the end of the week? Every Friday, Black Hills will be opening exclusive library vintages for tasters to compare to a current vintage. Those taking part in this experience may even have the opportunity to purchase bottles from the library collection. This experience is $20 plus tax per guest.

SATURDAY: WHY SO PERFECT PAIRING

Do you ever wonder why chocolate pairs so perfectly with red wine? This experience will guide you through a red wine and chocolate pairing with a delectable array of chocolate from Daniel Chocolates. This experience is not only delicious, but educational.

The Why So Perfect Pairing experience starts at $25 plus tax per guest.

With so much to offer, Black Hills Estate Winery is the place to be any day of the week.

Black Hills Estate Winery is open seven days a week, with tastings from 11 am to 5 pm. Reservations are strongly recommended; however, the winery will do its best to accommodate walk-ins.

To book a tasting, or for more information about Black Hills, please visit blackhillswinery.com or call the tasting room at 1-888-565-8554. To stay up to date on all Black Hills news, follow them on Instagram at @blackhillswinery.