Winetrails summer 2013

Win e r ies

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Food &

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WineTrails w w w. w i n e t r a i l s . c a

British Columbia

Summer WINE FESTIVAL

Wine Diva’s Tips on How to Pair Wine Discover the Wine Islands Creative Okanagan ChefS

Special Food, WINE & Farm EVENTS Where to Eat, Drink & Play in Wine Country Summer Cocktail recipes

Visit new Adega on 45th Winery in Osoyoos

SUMMER 2013

Clean Slate Winery & Poplar Grove Cheese A Dynamic New Duo

Experience The Green Man’s Lavender Farm

Montakarn’s label emblem was derived from the horses that run wild on the mountainous desert expanse neighbouring the winery. One stormy night a pregnant mare found a soft place to foal; on a sheltered sand pile used for stuccoing our building.

In the morning the storm cleared and resting in the morning sunshine was a small white filly with black main and tail. Amusingly when she walked on her tiny black hoofs she shakingly was “tippy toeing”. The rituals of life remain a pleasing fascination.

5462 Black Sage Rd., Oliver B.C. VOH 1TO

250-498-7709

Page 2 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Kelowna

There’s a new view in town and it’s spectacular!

Welcome montakarn estate winery

L: Co-owner Gary Misson with his wife Montakarn

The Winery

ontakarn Estate Winery on Black Sage Road in Oliver will be a new winery that should not be missed. The view will have you clicking your camera throughout your stay in the wine shop.

While there are other wineries located on the same ridge above Oliver, Montakarn is the only one to make full use of the western view. You can see the valley from McIntyre Bluff to the south end of the Golden Mile, including right down to the Okanagan River.

“We purchased it in 2003. It had peaches and apricots,” says co-owner Gary Misson who, along with his wife Montakarn, began removing the trees in favour of vines that now include Merlot, Chardonnay, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. “I’ve made wine since I was 20,” says Misson. “I love the smell of the cellar.”

While the plans for a winery took shape slowly, the execution of the plans seemed

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www.winetrails.ca

almost overwhelming. “That was an eyeopener!” Misson exclaims, referring to all of the small details that go into building a new winery.

Most of the details, including the design of the winery building itself, were completed by Misson, who earned a degree in architecture technology as part of a career change. Misson had spent many years at sea on ice breakers in the north and in BC’c coastal waters hauling log booms before buying the property that would become Montakarn Estate.

“Everything is grown here, picked here, and fermented here,” explains Misson.

“The vineyard that you walk through is the wine that you drink.” For their debut vintages, those wines will be hand-crafted blends rather than a large collection of single varieties. “We just find that blends seem to be the trick to this valley,” says Misson. The white blend, Tippy Toe, is composed of 70% un-oaked Chardonnay, 22% Sauvignon Blanc, and

8% Viognier. All were blended at crush and fermented in stainless steel tanks.

“The Sauvignon Blanc is really snappy here. It’s the clay and silt that does it.”

Having Daniel Bontorin as a consulting winemaker, and who is familiar with the terroir from working multiple vintages at other nearby wineries, is definitely an asset.

The terroir variations on the property also help explain why the Malbec ripens significantly earlier than the Merlot. “Our Merlot is in a low clay pocket, like a pond that had dried out,” Misson explains.

“It’s a little cooler there and the Merlot takes a little longer to come about. The Malbec is up on a sandy knoll and it gets a little more heat there, which the Malbec likes. You can almost split the vineyard down the driveway. On the north side is a little more clay and the south side is more rocky.” A red blend of Syrah, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot will also be available this season. ~ Luke Whitall B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 3

◆ Feature

Fabulous Food and Wine Fundraiser to Support The Nature Trust of BC antalize your taste buds with superb Okanagan food, wine and beer, experience outstanding entertainment, bid at exciting auctions and support The Nature Trust of BC at its 5th gala fundraiser Earth Wind Fire 2013 on Friday, June 21.

Taking place at the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort & Conference Center in Kelowna, the fundraiser promises to be a sensational event, net proceeds to aid The Nature Trust of BC’s Okanagan conservation efforts. Individual tickets are $175 and accommodation is available at the Delta Grand.

This non-profit non-advocacy land conservation organization has been acquiring and managing ecologically significant land in BC since 1971. The Nature Trust owns 11,000 acres in the Okanagan; as well, the group manages 115,000 acres of grazing licenses associated with its biodiversity ranches.

“Our latest acquisition was Twin Lakes - a beautiful 2,000 acres of grasslands near Penticton,” says Deb Kennedy of The Nature Trust.

“This property was identified as a top priority for conservation.

Twin Lakes is adjacent to The Nature Trust White Lake Biodiversity Ranch and will be conserved as part of this total complex.”

In particular, the proceeds from this event will support Conservation Youth Crews hired by The Nature Trust of BC each summer to tackle conservation activities on properties across the province and prepare them for future employment.

Earth Wind Fire starts at 5:30 with a sparkling reception, silent auction and the vocal stylings of jazz singer Anna Jacyszyn. As guests take their seats, they will be treated to a performance by Kelowna Secondary Vocal Jazz Ensemble, followed by dining and drinking at amazing food and beverage stations. Culinary creations are prepared by the Okanagan’s top chefs and members of Culinary Team BC; wines and beers provided by select Valley wineries and breweries. After a short presentation and live auction, the band Cover to Cover will rock the dance floor.

“Earth Wind Fire is a wonderful expression of Okanagan community spirit,” says Deb Kennedy. “We are very grateful for all the people

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Page 4 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

who share The Nature Trust’s passion for BC and contribute to this special fundraising event.” ~ Dona Sturmanis

Join us on June 21st for Earth Wind Fire 2013 at the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna.

Proceeds from this event featuring outstanding food prepared by chefs, sensational wine and live music will benefit the land conservation work of The Nature Trust of BC in the Okanagan. $175 per person. Contact details below

www.naturetrust.bc.ca

1-866-288-7878 www.winetrails.ca

◆ Contents

◆ Features/Events

◆ Editor’s

Artist Leanne Laine..................................................................................55 Confessions From The Vineyard.............................................................54 Creative Okanagan Chefs.......................................................................46 Feast of Fields.........................................................................................13 Feel the Love - Summer Wine Pairings...................................................35 Foodie Postcards from India...................................................................12 Okanagan Food, Wine, Food Festival....................................................15 Summer Cocktails....................................................................................52 The Jam Goddess...................................................................................17 The Nature Trust........................................................................................4 WAM! Wine, Art, Music...........................................................................14 Wine Country, Island Style........................................................................6

◆ Wine,

Beer & Spirits

3 Mile......................................... 27 Adega......................................... 54 Ancient Hill................................... 9 Burrowing Owl............................ 48 Cannery Brewing........................ 55 Clean Slate................................. 31 Church & State........................... 49 Clos Du Soleil............................. 42 D’Angelo.................................... 30 Desert Hills................................. 45 Dirty Laundry.............................. 22 Eau Vivre.................................... 41 Forbidden Fruit.......................... 41 Gehringer Brothers..................... 50 Gray Monk.................................... 8 Hillside Winery & Bistro............. 32 Kalala.......................................... 18 Kraze Legz.................................. 36 LaFrenz....................................... 31 Larch Hills..................................... 7 Meyer Family Vineyards............. 38 Misconduct................................. 55 Moraine...................................... 30 Montakarn.................................... 3 Mt.Boucherie.............................. 20 Naramata Bench Winery Assc.... 27

OK Falls Winery Association...... 37 Okanagan Crush Pad................. 23 Oliver Twist................................. 48 Orofino....................................... 43 Perseus....................................... 25 Poplar Grove.............................. 28 Quails’ Gate............................... 21 Quinta Ferreira........................... 51 Recline Ridge............................... 7 River Stone................................. 45 Rustic Roots................................ 42 Serendipity................................. 33 Seven Stones.............................. 43 Silver Sage.................................. 50 Similkameen Wineries Assc........ 40 Sonoran...................................... 21 Spierhead................................... 17 Stag’s Hollow.............................. 36 Summerhill.................................. 16 Therapy...................................... 34 The View..................................... 13 Tinhorn Creek............................. 44 Upper Bench.............................. 26 Volcanic Hills.............................. 19 West Side Wine Trails................. 18 Wild Goose................................ 39

◆ Restaurants/Catering

T

Note

he Okanagan’s hedonistic s u m m e r sunshine arrived early this year with our trademark hot summer days beginning in May. Warm nights, swimming in Okanagan Lake, glasses of chilled wine on patios – this is the lifestyle we are known for in the valley. Life is definitely good here in the summer and we know how to celebrate it!

We have a line up of incredible events to attend this season. Our 1st official Okanagan Diner en Blanc is happening on July 4th along with our 1st Food Wine Film Festival early September.

The magical Similkameen Valley’s super fun BBQ King competition is on July 13th and Feast of Fields is back and happening in Kelowna this year on August 18th.

The Nature’s Trust charity event Earth, Wind & Fire is one not to missed on June 21st. The Rotary Centre for the Arts is hosting their annual WAM! (wine, art, music) event on June 15th and are featuring the amazing people in my cookbook, The Butcher, The Baker, The Wine & Cheese Maker this year! Make sure to check out the delicious speaker series preceding the event on page 14.

Cheers to you enjoying your best Okanagan summer yet! Don’t forget to visit our beautiful farmer’s markets - shop local and say hello to the amazing people who grow and raise our delicious food. The summer in the Okanagan is delicious.

Jennifer Schell

Editor-in-Chief

◆ Contributing

Writers/Photographers

Writers: Cassandra Anderton, Sharon Bonney, Michael Botner, Natasha Chuydk, Lorne Eckersley, Allison Fader, Courtney Fossett, Kristin Peturson-Laprise, Mike Lee, Allison Markin, Deanna Merrick, Dee Newman, Barry Potyondi, Rhys Pender, Janina Stajic, Terry Meyer-Stone, Dona Sturmanis, Luke Whittall, Sarah Willard.

Photography: Jasmin Dosanj, Brenda Maunders, Moda Photography, Graham Osborne and Spatula Media. View bios of our wonderful team at www.winetrails.ca

◆ On

The Cover

Our Summer cover features Artist Leanne Laine. See page 55 for her story.

Bonfire Grill........................................................................................................... 19 Poppadoms........................................................................................................... 12 RauDZ Regional Table.......................................................................................... 15 The Bench Market................................................................................................. 24 The Kitchen........................................................................................................... 26

WineTrails

◆ Wine

Published quarterly at the beginning of March, June, Subscription rate Canada $16.00 per year (HST Incl.)

September and December by

Country Services

Artisan Beer and Wine Jellies...........55 Basket Case Picnics...........................10 Codfathers........................................10 Cormier’s Studio................................24 De Bakker’s Kitchen............................9 DeLong Studio..................................22 Discover Wines.................................11 EZ Rock.............................................17 Forest Green Man Lavender.............32 www.winetrails.ca

Grape Escapes Wine Tours...............51 Harkers Organics...............................42 Naramata Heritage Inn & Spa..........29 Shades of Linen................................33 Smack Dab........................................11 Strictly Cellars....................................55 The Food Angel................................55 Valentinos..........................................55 Vineyard for Sale...............................13

Food &

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Publisher: Don Kendall Editor-In-Chief: Jennifer Schell Creative Director: Kirk Myltoft Circulation: Mark Oleksyn

2250 Camrose Street, Penticton, B.C. V2A 8R1 Tel: (250) 492-6036 Fax: (250) 492-9843 Email: winetrails@blackpress.ca

U.S. $18.00 U.S. per year International $20.00 Can. per year Check the B.C. Food & Wine Trails website on the Internet: www.winetrails.ca ISSN 1188 - 1348 Publications Mail Registration No. 10195

BC 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.

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 5

◆ Feature

Starling Lane Winery (pictured here), located on the Saanich Pennisula, offers 8 wines, many of them award-winning, including their Pinot Noir, Ortega and the Célébration Brut sparkling wine. www.starlinglanewinery.com

Wine Country A warm summer’s day is best accompanied by a crisp, fruity white wine or a light, easydrinking red. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in such an experience then on Vancouver Island, with its spectacular scenery, foodie culture and fabulous award-winning wines.

Here you can explore a variety of wine regions, meandering along country lanes, past farm stands bursting with local products, before coming upon a winery tucked away in a lush valley, or perched atop a rolling hill.

How did this happen in a region some have described as “clinging to the climatic fringe of the wine world”? There’s something about a creative island spirit that doesn’t allow issues like location to get in the way.

As early as the 1920s intrepid farmers used what they had in abundance - loganberries - to create an island wine: a sweet, port-like wine, but wine nevertheless.

Not content with their loganberry brew, islanders began experimenting with different types of grapes to find out which would respond best to the island’s wet winters and not-so-hot summers. Then in the early 80s the provincial government, with the help of Italian immigrant Dennis Dionisio Zanatta, tested 100 different grape varieties to see which could thrive on the island.

Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Ortega and hybrids like Marechal Foch were singled out. In 1992 Zanatta opened the island’s first winery, popping the cork on a bottle of Ortega

Page 6 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

Island S tyle

made with grapes from his own vineyard.

Today his daughter Loretta continues his legacy managing the vineyard - the island’s largest - the winery restaurant, Vinoteca, and producing wines including Ortega as well as sparkling wines and a Pinot Nero.

Many of the island’s wineries are family owned which lends a relaxed, personal touch to the wine culture. For example, in tasting rooms you’ll often find vintners on hand, happy to discuss their wines and how they’ve coaxed island notes like cedar and blackberry into traditional varieties to produce distinctive wines.

So where to start your tour of the island’s wine regions? It’s hard to decide, as many wineries have one-of-a-kind features that make them worth a visit. Averill Creek Vineyard, a 40-acre estate winery in the heart of the Cowichan Valley, has a garden patio where visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch accompanied by spectacular views of the valley and one of the excellent wines - such as the Pinot Noir Reserve* -- created by doctor-turned-vintner, Andy Johnston.

Thirty minutes south at Cherry Point Estate Wines, owners Xavier and Maria Clara Bonilla welcome visitors to their rustic bistro, where it’s easy to while away an afternoon, soaking in the sunshine, eating dishes made with local ingredients and sipping their fruity Ortega, Coastal Red or indulging in their famous blackberry dessert wine.

Even further south on the Saanich Peninsula, you can sample easy-drinking wines in

the de Vine Vineyard’s tasting room, arguably one of the most beautiful in BC with breath-taking ocean and mountain views.

Owned by the Windsor family, this island winery also grows its grapes organically.

There are wineries on Salt Spring Island or go north, to Nanaimo, Port Alberni or the island’s newest wine region - the Comox Valley. Here, the Beaufort Vineyard and Estate Winery, owned by Susan and Jeff Vandermolen, is already turning heads with distinctive wines such as the Blanc de Noir Rosé, and the Beauhemian, a flavourful blend that includes their estate grown Marechal Foch and Leon Millet. Nearby, at the almost-oceanside 40 Knots Winery, you can enjoy a picnic lunch accompanied by their earthy Pinot Noir and the sound of sea lions - a true island winery experience.

The island wine culture is complemented by a fabulous foodie culture - where talented chefs create gourmet meals with island grown products - everything from organic meats, just-caught seafood, local cheeses, and condiments like wasabi and sea salt.

It’s clear there’s a lot to take in and the best way to appreciate the island’s wine culture is on a road trip. That way you have the time and freedom to visit each region and, more importantly sip as many original island vintages as possible. ~ Janina Stajic www.winetrails.ca

◆ North

Cool Climate Wines + Warm Hearts at Recline Ridge

W

e are who we are,” Recline Ridge owner Graydon Ratzlaff says, “a cool climate vineyard that makes the best of what our region has to offer.”

And the Salmon Arm area has plenty to offer – for winemakers who can bring out the flavours and aromas of grapes like Kerner, Siegerrebe, Ortega and Marechal Foch.

Judging by a tasting of the full lineup at Recline Ridge, the winery has this cool climate thing nailed.

Clear, crisp and wonderfully aromatic, the white, red and rosé wines are consistently well-made expressions of their varietals.

Visitors to the wonderful wine shop (perhaps BC’s only log

building that has been to Japan and back!) will find an excellent selection of wines to choose from – 6 whites, 1 rosé, 3 reds and 2 dessert wines.

Among the favourites are: ''Shuswap Serenade A blend of Madeleine Angevine and Madeleine Sylvaner grapes.

Versatile, pairing nicely with seafoods, poultry, most cheeses or perfectly lovely on its own. ''Siegerrebe A Gewürz/Mad Angie cross.

Creamy and well balanced with a long finish. Pairs with seafood, cheeses and curries, and a nice patio sipper, too.

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Opening hours:

By appointment

r our new Vintage Releases November to April site at www.recline-ridge.bc.ca

#1, S12, C16, 0E 2X0 5-2212

Skimikin Rd.

Shuswap Lake

Tappen Valley Rd.

RECLINE RIDGE WINERY

Hwy #1 west of Salmon Arm

Salmon Arm

''Ridgeport Made from Foch, this fortified sipper is meant for evenings. With chocolate!

And don’t miss out on the new Kerner. The last two vintages have sold out quickly.

“We are friendly and approachable,” Graydon says. “My wife Maureen and I love what we are doing and hopefully that shows.” It most certainly does! ~ Lorne Eckersley

Larch Hills Winery... Vistas and Vines

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

an Smith invite you to visit 10-5 July - September and enjoy the award winning 12-5 May, June & October es of the Shuswap!

aily in Sept. in Oct.

''Make Me Blush Rosé A Pinot Noir/Marechal Foch blend. Cries out for a hot summer day.

2640 Skimikin Rd., Tappen, B.C. V0E 2X3 Phone 250-835-2212 Visit our website at:

www.reclineridgewinery.com N

he trip to Larch Hills Winery is the start of a fine wine experience, with beautiful vistas everywhere. Upon arrival, you’ll see that Larch Hills is framed by Salmon Arm, Deep Creek Valley and Enderby.

The grapes grown at the high elevation here have a very limited growing season so they have to be early ripeners, and the Ortega is a perfect example of this. Proprietor Hazel Manser says it is a very popular selection.

“Ortega is our signature wine.

The 2011 is a great sipper.

Everyone likes it as it’s easy to drink. The Ortega has a crisp, citrusy finish and pairs very well with Thai or spicy foods.”

Siegerrebe is another example of the early ripeners. Hazel says it took seven years to promote it and it is now selling exceptionally well.

“We sold out the last two vintages in less than three months.” she says, “This is an outcross of Gewürztraminer and Madeleine Angevine plants.

The Siegerrebe has tropical tones, with intense floral and fruit flavours, such as lychee nuts and passion fruit. Because

we do not irrigate our vineyards, our wines are very flavourful. “ The 2010 Rosé is another perennial favourite in the summer. It is light, refreshing and fruity. And in reds, the Lemberger is a great summer wine if you like something light and fruity. Hazel compares it to a Pinot Noir.

“We sell excellent products for a very good value. All wines are hand crafted. And we love to welcome everybody, including seniors, children and pets to Larch Hills.” ~ Deanna Rainey

1_6 Horizontal * enlarged size 4c Winter 2011/2012 issue

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

www.winetrails.ca

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 7

◆ Kelowna

Gray Monk Estate Winery... Sumptuous Scenery and Winning Wines n a valley full of spectacular summer scenery, Gray Monk Estate Winery takes breathtaking beauty to a whole new level. Vineyards have begun to show signs of life, the beautiful hues of green that bear witness to the vintage that is yet to come.

Overlooking Okanagan Lake, Gray Monk Estate Winery is one of the busiest and most successful wineries in the Okanagan. They have a huge and loyal following, and their popular wines sell out very quickly. Aficionados know to purchase their Gray Monk wines fast to avoid disappointment!

Proprietor Trudy Heiss says their 2012 Pinot Gris is one of the more popular vintages released this year.

“The Pinot Gris has lots of fruit...it is a typical profile wine. And we’ve released our 2012 Ehrenfelser as well. They’re both selling like hotcakes.” Trudy said.

Gray Monk’s Grapevine Restaurant, now open for lunch and dinner, is a perennial favorite amongst Okanagan residents and their out-of-town guests. Surrounded

by Trudy’s (self-professed flower-holic) signature hanging pots filled with bold, colorful geraniums and petunias, the patio overlooks lush vineyards leading down to Okanagan Lake. The menu is specifically designed to showcase local growers, pairing their foods with just the right wines.

Last year, Gray Monk launched a wine club for their loyal customers. With over 400 members already, it has been wildly successful. Every three months, members receive special offers for wines that are personally selected by the Heiss family. They also have first priority with new releases, last call wines and award winners. Wine club members also have first access to events held at Gray Monk.

Gray Monk was one of the first estate wineries established in British Columbia.

They have come a long way in the past four decades, and now produce 81,000 cases of wine each year. And even that is not enough to meet the demand.

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Page 8 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

“Our most popular red is the Estate Merlot. Most of our reds are in the Odyssey line, which features smaller lots. We also produce great white and rosé sparkling wines. Our top white is our Pinot Gris, which is our signature wine,” she says.

A drive to Gray Monk Estate Winery takes you through the hills overlooking Okanagan Lake in Lake Country. From the drive itself to the great wines and food, a visit to Gray Monk is an ideal way to while away a summers day. ~ Deanna Rainey

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Kelowna

Ancient Hill Soon to release a Rosé

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reat wines, panoramic views of a beautiful rural setting and an eclectic, antique-filled tasting room are all hallmarks of Ancient Hill

Estate Winery. Architect Robert Mackenzie’s design features slate, stone and reclaimed fir, reflecting proprietors’ Richard and Jitske Kamphuys’ attachment

Planning a Special Event or Corporate Event?

Entertain your guests in our European Style Winery!

Contact us for details.

4918 Anderson Rd, Kelowna. 250 491 2766 www.ancienthillwinery.com

• Daily Hand Made Breads •Wood-Fired Pizzas Nightly • Gourmet Sandwiches, soups, salads made with the best local organic ingredients.

VISIT DE BAKKER’S

Now Open 7 Days A Week: Sunday Brunch: 10am-3pm Mon.: 5pm-9pm Tues. - Sat.: 11am-9pm Phone: 778-478-0622 www.debakkerskitchen.com 101-1014 Glenmore Drive ( at Mountain Ave.), Kelowna BC www.winetrails.ca

to the environment. The elegant graphic on their labels, linking earth, air and water also embodies their wines’ affinity to the terroir.

Now into its second full year of operation, the winery has already garnered numerous awards.

The 2009 Gewürztraminer ($16.99), a Gold Medal winner (BC), shows typical spicy, tropical fruit and floral notes on the nose and palate. The 2010 Pinot Gris ($17.99) won a Bronze Medal (Canadian); peach/apricot notes, dry and well-balanced, with a lovely clean finish. The winery’s ‘summer sipping’ portfolio will be expanded this year with the release of a rosé made from Pinot Noir grapes.

Building on their success with cool climate white grape varieties, Ancient Hill also takes advantage of red varieties that are wellsuited to the Okanagan. Their 2009 Pinot Noir was a finalist in last year’s Okanagan Wine

Festival. 2009 was an excellent year for reds, and this beautifully balanced, elegant Pinot Noir ($21.99) shows excellent varietal characteristics.

For a hearty red blend, try the 2010 Lazerus ($16.99) which is predominantly Zweigelt, with Lemberger, Pinot Noir and Baco Noir blended in to yield a great food wine with peppery notes and a long finish. If you’re in the market for a blockbuster red, the 2010 Baco Noir ($24.99) has to be your choice. Flavours of cherry, plum and blackberry are balanced with nicely integrated tannins. Sure to be a favourite with barbequed meats this summer!

Ancient Hill provides a beautiful patio and picnic area where you can enjoy a glass or bottle of their fine wines, as well as a private tasting room for small functions.

A beautiful venue for a wedding or other special event! ~ Allison Fader

De Bakker’s Delights Diners

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hether you’ve been hiking, sun-bathing or you’re just trying to beat the heat of your own kitchen this summer, De Bakker’s Kitchen offers great homemade meals at an affordable price. Choose to dine on the garden terrace or in the cool of the restaurant.

Owners Mary de Bakker and Sandi Lukic source local produce for almost everything they make.

And they do make just about everything they serve on site “Except,” Mary says, “for the sausages and the cheese.” They even smoke salmon and culture buttermilk.

Lunches always include a variety of soups, salads and sandwiches.

De Bakker’s Gnocci Bolognese is made with local russet potatoes and ricotta cheese. Real woodfired pizzas are served after 5pm. Try the Roast (wood fired) Chicken sandwich with pesto, red onion, grilled zucchini, roasted red pepper, provolone cheese and rosemary. There are gluten free, vegetarian and vegan meal

Enjoy their delicious Niçoise Salad a perfect lunch on a summer day.

options at both lunch and dinner and plenty of chalkboard specials.

For beer lovers, De Bakkers serves Crannóg Ales, brewed in the Irish tradition on Crannóg’s Organic microbrewery in Sorrento, BC. The wine list boasts whites and reds, both local and international.

On a hot day, there’s nothing more refreshing than De Bakker’s homemade lemonades – traditional and wild blueberry.

After your meal, don’t forget dessert. De Bakker’s Crème Brulée and Dark Callebaut chocolate pudding are perfect with coffee or organic loose leaf tea. ~ Sue Harper

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 9

◆ Kelowna

Basket Case Picnics Offers Farm to Fork Fare with Flair

F

ollowing two years anchored around local Farmers Markets, this year we will have a full time presence with our trailer at the revitalized Corbin’s Corner in North Glenmore,” says Kelsey Galt of Basket Case Picnics. “Here we will be serving our tantalizing and ever evolving fresh sheet of a la carte specialties featuring the freshest seasonal bounty. Plans Kelsey Galt of Basket Case Picnics are also in the works for a series of Glenmore Gatherings on-site as special events on summer evenings, with live music and Okanagan food and beverage.”

Basket Case Picnics are sustainability-focused caterers who embrace the Slow Food movement and work in close partnership with a wide range of local growers, farmers, ranchers and producers. Their highly recognizable trailer can be found serving up fresh Okanagan fare at a wide variety of events, attractions and especially working in partnership with picniclicensed wineries. Basket Case Picnics also offers full service catering for weddings and private and corporate functions.

“Our food offers fresh twists on rustic, old-fashioned favourites,” says Kelsey. “It’s good, clean, fair food, carefully tended from farm to fork, and presented with flare.”

One of Basket Case Picnics’ unique offerings is its selection of gourmet four-course picnics for two or more. “They’re carefully and creatively designed to fuel your enjoyment of the region and take any day of Okanagan activities over the top!” enthuses Kelsey.

All food is packaged in compostable containers in re-usable eco-friendly coolers with biodegradable garbage bags included to take care of the environment while dining al fresco.

Kelsey and her team are thrilled to be the “Preferred Food Suppliers” to the Okanagan Diner en Blanc July 4 and the Summer Theatre Festival in downtown Kelowna July 18 through August 13.

Codfathers’ Outlandish Partnership

C

odfathers Seafood Market welcomes each season and the ever changing fresh seafood that comes along with them. The summer ushers Dungeness crab, salmon, halibut, and We Wai Kai scallops from Quadra Island, just to mention a few highlights that could be hitting your pots or barbeques. Codfathers works with local fisherman to the extent that you can trace many of their products right back to the boat or farm from where they came.

Your fish may have been caught the morning you are purchasing it!

The market also offers international seafood for those looking for something more exotic.

The store carries many top quality products to complete your shopping experience. Be sure to look out for the unique olive oils that are now available from The Olive Oil Merchant. You can catch Codfathers at the Okanagan Feast of Fields and sample the arctic char coming on Sunday, August 18, 2013.

The new Basket Case Picnics website will be launched in June with on-line ordering.

“Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest special event updates and daily a la carte throw downs,” invites Kelsey. ~ Dona Sturmanis

Basket Case Picnics puts 100% heart & health into your hunger!

From farm to fork, your gloriously good 4 course picnic is made fresh and full of flavor.

You can also enjoy Basket Case Picnics: • Street Food Style at Corbin’s Corner in N. Glenmore, Kelowna (525 Snowsell Rd.) • On Location with Partnering Wineries • Wedding, Corporate, and Event Catering Follow Us On Twitter • Check out our always changing calendar 778 214 EATZ (3289/3286) and add us to yours!

Like Us on Facebook basketcasepicnics.com LOCAL

ORGANIC

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CREATIONS

This summer enjoy Wild Chinook Salmon!

The Crofts boys hard at work at the OOOyster Festival.

Halibut Ceviche 1 lb halibut sliced into cubes ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice ½ cup lime juice 2 Tbsp Asian fish sauce 3 finely chopped garlic cloves 3 finely chopped green onions 2 Tbsp chopped mint 1 Tbsp chopped cilantro 1 Tbsp sesame oil In a glass container toss the halibut chunks into the lemon and lime juice. Leave for 2-3hrs and then pour out the juice and add all the other ingredients. Mix well and return it to the fridge for another 1-2 hours.

Serve in lettuce cups or atop tortillas. ~ Cassandra Anderton

Page 10 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

We are proud to offer beautiful Wild Chinook Salmon this summer.

Line caught, Wild Chinook Salmon (King or Spring Salmon) is a ish lovers favourite with it’s rich salmon lavour and irm lesh A healthy source of protein and omega 3s, salmon is an alternative to the hot dog & hamburger BBQ menu.

Fresh, locally sourced, sustainable seafood.

Real seafood. Real simple.

www.codfathers.ca 2355 Gordon Drive, Kelowna

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Kelowna

Have Anything You Want At Smack Dab Restaurant

S

mid-March. “Our guests are very impressed with the spaciousness, the decor, our new casual menu... our ‘vibe.’. The View Room, our

mack Dab has been very busy since we opened,” says Heather Schroeter, general manager at Kelowna’s Manteo Resort, about its smash hit eatery that opened in

SAY HELLO TO YOUR TASTE BUDS. ONE AT A TIME.

private dining room, seating up to 36, has been very popular.”

Smack Dab is definitely what Kelowna needs. With all the incredible restaurants and talented chefs developing unique cuisine to complement Okanagan wines, Manteo saw the opportunity to do something unexpected and spent $1.5 million renovating the former Wild Apple Restaurant. The result was Smack Dab, a casual and fun gathering place for locals as well as hotel guests, offering a spectacular, spacious lakeside environment.

Smack Dab boasts the largest outdoor patio in Kelowna, with 150 seats, sure to be a favourite venue in the summer. “We will also have 30 seats with lounge seating, comfortable couches and chairs and an additional 120 seats at tables – a combination of 4’s and 6’s, gas lanterns and white lights,” says Heather.

Smack Dab’s extensive, creative menu offers everything from appies to entrees and breakfast to late night snacks. You can sit in a booth and watch the chefs prepare your favourite item. Heather says that so far, the bestsellers are Fish Tacones,

the Crispy Chicken Sandwich, and Forno Oven Pizzas. There’s even a special menus for kids under 10.

Besides an impressive offering of wines and cocktails, Smack Dab offers Kelowna’s largest selection of craft beer from BC and the Pacific Northwest.

“The craft beers have been very popular,” says Heather. “We have a flight of 5 4-ounce tasters and you can choose from any of our 12 taps. We also have a 5-wine flight which has been very popular as well.”

Whether you want a family-friendly breakfast, a beer after work, or an elegant multi-course dinner, you’ll find it at Smack Dab, where you say hello to your taste buds. One at a time. ~ Dona Sturmanis

Kamloops Customers Welcome Discover Wines

File: 12-MAN-0521_Smack_Dab_ads Trim: 4" x 4.875" Docket: 12-MER-0521 Client: Manteo / Smack Dab

The Best Selection Of BC Wines, Cheeses and Local Proof: Date: Feb 7 2013 – Time: 7:26 PM Artisan Foods!

1

File Created:

Kelowna, BC Operator: Rhoddy 2080-C Colour: Springfi 4C eld Rd. PR: AD: Orchard Plaza CW: AE: 250.868.3990 Job: AD

Kamloops, BC 416-500 Notre Dame Dr. CD: Columbia Square OP: RML

Opening Spring 2013

Suite 730 - 1201 W Pender Street • Vancouver, BC, Canada V6E 2V2 • Tel: 604.639.2266 • Fax: 604.639.2447

www.discoverwines.com

Open Monday - Saturday

Voted Best Wine Store by EAT Magazine Readers 2012 Voted Best Local Wine Shop by Okanagan Life Magazine readers 2009 created by LittleIdiot.be

www.winetrails.ca

D

iscover Wines Kamloops has been embraced by the community!” says owner Tracy Gray. “There have been two full page articles in the local papers, two radio interviews and lots of media attention.”

On Monday, May 6, the sister store to Discover Wines Kelowna had its grand opening in Kamloops to much acclaim. “People are flocking in droves to check out the new store in town and the response has been phenomenal,” says Tracy.

Although the grand opening for Discover Wine Kamloops was May 6, it officially opened its doors April 24. Visitors are apparently giving hugs to the staff. They’re also enjoying the new wine tasting counter, a unique concept to the Thompson area where there are so few wineries in close proximity.

“Kamloops has been such an underserviced market for BC wine, BC cheese and wine-related

home entertainment items that visitors are really loving it,” says Tracy.

Many people have already joined the Discover Wines Kamloops Wine Club and in such a short time, the store already has regulars!

The award-winning Discover Wines Kelowna has been the #1 VQA wine store in terms of sales in British Columbia since it opened July 22, 2003. The one-stop-shop offers wine sampling, and acts as a wine information centre for locals and visitors. Upwards of 600 BC wines are featured at any given time.

Discover Wines Kelowna will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this summer with lots of activities.

Like Discover Wines on Facebook, join their quarterly newsletter, or follow them on Twitter for new releases, staff picks and news. ~ Dona Sturmanis

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 11

◆ Feature

FOODIE Postcards from

INDIA Continued DAYS 13-14: FORT KOCHI

Hello Kerala! We got off the plane wrapped in all these layers and straight into 32 degree heat! The next day Mum experienced her first Keralan cooking class with a local housewife.

She made four dishes using a single coconut - from Coconut Chicken Masala and Cabbage Thoran, to a Mixed Vegetable Avial and Channa Kadala. Plus this layered ground rice and coconut flour cylinder called Puttu, which is gluten-free too. With exception of the Thoran, I haven’t tried any of these before. It was a nice light change from the rich dishes in Rajasthan. Mum really liked the fact that the dishes didn’t use much oil or salt too. Plus, Jasmin learnt how to eat rice and dishes the traditional way by hand. At last our food journey in Kerala has begun!

Later that day the temperature rose to 36 degrees, so we went down to the beach to check out the Chinese Fishing Nets in action. The nets were a present to help the fishermen with their catch. The problem is there is a lot of by-catch and definitely no sustainable practices. Kerala is located in the south of India and is known as ‘God’s Own Country’. It is beautiful with lush green rice fields, sky high coconut trees and surrounded by lake, as well as the Arabian Sea. With all that luscious scenery you can tell why Kerala has more of a laid-back feel to it. The only downside is the amount of rubbish, especially on the beaches.

DAY 15-16: ‘VENICE OF THE EAST’

The next day we headed to Alleppey, a small town on the backwaters of Kerala that is also dubbed ‘Venice of the East’. Through the homestay we booked an all day canoe ride on the backwaters for the next day.

The locals had the ultimate seasonal and local philosophy. They cook whatever fish they happen to catch and other ingredients are plucked from trees or plants. For lunch we had a Keralan Thali on a banana leaf ‘plate’. Ours had small portions of many items including chutney (1 beetroot and 1 coconut/mango), Keralan rice, Thoran (dry cabbage dish tempered with mustard seeds and grated coconut), a yellow daal with potato (which was like a porridge), dry spice rub fish, and raw mango pickle). On the rice they poured some raw mango sauce too.

We ate it with our right hand using the technique we learnt from Mum’s cooking class. The goal is to have a clean palm and not have anything dripping from your fingers or on your fingernails. We’re still practicing!

After visiting some of the local villages and waving to the kids we tried some Toddy. This is Kerala’s local coconut beer from the fermented sap of the coconut. Usually there’s a clay pot positioned in the coconut tree too collect the sap, a ‘Toddy Tapper’ then climbs the tree twice a day too ‘tap’. The morning extract has a lower alcohol content than the later one.

They were trying to sell a 1/2 litre to us, but we ended up going halves with the other couple to try the taste.

It was disgusting, or shall I say an acquired yeasty taste. All I could taste was a warm yeast favour followed by a slight taste of coconut. It was only later that we were told by Biju that we were probably given old Toddy and it should be served cold - doh!

from food & wine trails spring 2013 We follow the ladies of poppadoms on their journey through india

Keralan T hai

Boat restaurant inside the swanky Taj Malabar hotel.

Like the name suggests the restaurant is shaped and designed to feel like a rice boat that Kerala and its backwaters is known for. Rice boats are crafted using locally harvested jack wood planks called ‘aanjii’, these planks are firmly secured with handmade coir rope. During the entire assembly of the boat, not a single nail is used! It’s then coated with black resin made from boiled cashew kernels. We decided to share 3 fish dishes - the signature Meen Pollicathu (a delicious fish fillet encased with an aromatic spice blend and wrapped in a banana leaf to poach), Moilee (a light, mild coconut milk and ginger sauce), and the Meen Roast (with spice rub that’s been shallow fried). This was hands down the best seafood I’ve eaten in my life! The Rice Boat has a simple approach to their cooking, showing the dishes eaten in villages across Kerala. For dessert we ordered the fresh Coconut Soufflé (it was more like a mousse or no-bake cheesecake minus the cracker base) and the Cardamon Trilogy sent by the Chef.

We cannot wait to eat here again

and try another set of new dishes. The Chef was so passionate about his food and we chatted for ages talking food and comparing locations.

DAYS 25-26: AND… RELAX

From our 15 days in Kerala we learnt that Kerala is a melting pot of cultures, with 60% being Hindu, 20% Christian, and 20% Muslim. Not only has that influenced the food of Kerala but there has been an international influence too with Chinese and Portuguese techniques, as Cochin was the main hub for trading spices.

As well as the open Tamil Nadu border.

Even though there are many different religions, everyone is united through the Onam festival, for the harvest in the middle of August. A special 25-36 item ‘Sadya’ menu is created and served on a banana leaf. And even though all of the items will have coconut in them, each will be unique in flavour.

Finally, when I asked the chef to describe the food of Kerala he replied ‘Kerala is ‘God’s own country, and the food is ‘God’s own food”.

DAYS 17-19: BACK TO COCHIN

The next day we decided to pamper ourselves and check out The Rice L-R Mum Jas with daughters Aman & Jasmin ready for their canoe trip.

Page 12 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

www.winetrails.ca

Pinotage

LOVE

In the early 1920s, just around the time that Pinotage was being created in South Africa, my Great Grandfather George Ward was cultivating this rich and fruitful Okanagan land that has become a beloved home to our sprawling vineyards of Pinotage.

Why Pinotage? Why the Red Shoe?

We’ll share our authentic wine country story when you visit The View!

It’s easy to find us...just look for the red shoe.

- Jennifer Turton-Molgat

Open Year Round April-Oct | Daily | 11:30 am – 5:30 pm Nov-March | Weekdays | Noon – 5 pm www.theviewwinery.com The View Winery 1-2287 Ward Rd., Kelowna, BC (p) 250 860.0742 or (c) 250 215.1331

5th Annual Okanagan

Sunday, August 18, 2013. Little Church Organics, Kelowna Experience the Harvest, Gourmet Style.

TICKETS & INFO: FARMFOLKCITYFOLK.CA www.winetrails.ca

◆

Kelowna

Fall in love with Bling at The View

T

he famous ‘red shoe winery’ is again demonstrating leading-edge innovation in its product line. The View Winery is releasing the first BC wine in a can! This sparkling 100% Gewürztraminer – marketed as Bling - is clean and crisp with a 7.5% alcohol content. Sure to be a crowd-pleaser for summer sipping, it’ll be sold at the winery and possibly a few other select locations.

This unique winery is noted not only for its fun, sexy, sparkling atmosphere, but for its support for charity through its The View Cares: Red Shoe Campaign.

Proceeds from the tasting room and Bling sales will support the Heart and Stroke Foundation, which has previously benefitted from president and Head Diva Jennifer Molgat’s philanthropic vision.

As part of the FAB Five W i n e r i e s , The View is developing a loyal following.

Their wines, along with the ‘Blue City Trio’ will again by featured on June 15 at the second Flip Flop on the Hill Top event at the East Kelowna Hall. Tickets are $15, with proceeds going to support this heritage building.

New releases this spring include: the 2012 Gewürztraminer Reserve

Meet the other Bling!

The View’s new winery cat

(dry, medium bodied with a lovely floral nose and lychee notes), the 2012 Pinotage Rosé (strawberry on the nose, with a clean, dry finish), and the 2010 Pinotage which shows a lighter style, austere red wine with cherry on the nose and palate…great paired with venison or lamb.

Into its second year, the expanded tasting room also features Ward’s Hard Apple Cider (named after GreatGrandfather George Ward who settled the land in 1922). Made from European cider apples, this cider’s dry, crisp finish pairs well with ribs, pork or burgers; the fact that it is gluten-free appeals to many.

You don’t have to dress like a diva to visit, but be sure to look for the red shoe on your next tasting tour and get your Bling on! ~ Allison Fader

Potential Vineyard

10450 Matner Lane, Coldstream, B.C.

15.96 acres of prime irrigated agricultural land (formerly orchard), panoramic view overlooking the beautiful Coldstream Valley. Ideal for variety of grape growing with a gentle southern slope and valley air flow. Magnificent residential setting, full services, private location minutes from Vernon, near world class skiing, lakes , other amenities. $786,000. MLS® 10061325

contact:Lynn Webster, 604 925 4214 or Lyall Webster, 250 545 0955

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 13

16 Food Stations • 10 Wineries • 8 Chefs • Live Music • Visual Art • Performance Art ROTA RY C E N T R E F OR T H E A RT S P R E SE N T S

WAM! WINE, ART & MUSIC

Explore the Arts & Tastes of Your Okanagan (SAT) JUNE 15 / 2013, 7 - 10 PM Creative Cocktail Attire WINE BC Wine Museum & VQA Wine Shop • CedarCreek Estate Winery • Double Cross Cidery • Hester Creek Estate Winery • Hillside Estate Winery • Intersection Winery • Nk’Mip Cellars • Orofino Winery • Quails’ Gate Winery • Rustic Roots Winery • Tantalus Vineyards • Tree Brewing Co • Upper Bench Estate Winery ART Angela Bonten • Tony Koenan • Angel Jutzi • Livessence Figurative Society • HeART Fit MUSIC/PERFORMANCE Ari Neufeld • Cover2Cover • Tanya Lipscomb of the Dharma Dolls • Kinshira Performance Troupe • Mission Dance • Okanagan Photo Star FARM Arlo’s Honey • Codfathers Seafood Market • ender • Olive Oil Merchant • Sunshine Farm • The Village Harker’s Organics • Okanagan Lavender Cheese Company FOOD Terrace Restaurant (at CedarCreek) • Delta Grand Okanagan Resort olci Restaurant and Catering • Hillside Winery Bistro • Nk’Mip Patio & Conference Centre • Dolci Restaurant • Okanagan Grocery Artisan Breads • Terrafina Restaurant at Hester Creek • DeBakker’s Kitchen • Poplar Grove Cheese • Sandrine French Pastry and Chocolate

Meet

ED a t rink

C e le b r a t e

This year’s WAM! showcases the Chefs, Farmers & Champions as seen in Jennifer Schell’s, An Okanagan Cookbook.

The Cookbook Speaker Series

Three evenings of

delicious Conversations

Farmers: Growing Our Food - May 27 Champions: Protecting Our Food - June 3 Chefs: Creating Our Food - June 10

Food &

WineTrails British Columbia

Safe Ride Home provided by

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

Page 14 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

RotaryCentrefortheArts.com

TICKETS: $15/each

Available at Rotary Centre for the Arts 250-717-5304 or SelectYourTickets.com

TICKETS to WAM! $89/each | Groups of 10: $80/each Available at Rotary Centre for the Arts 421 Cawston Ave. Kelowna BC 250-717-5304 or SelectYourTickets.com

@RotaryArtCentre

WineArtMusic

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Feature/Kelowna

Super staff at raudz

I

f you talk to RauDZ Regional Table owners Rod Butters and Audrey Surrao about the success of their restaurant they are quick to remind you that it is largely due to their amazing management team. Unless you sit kitchenside you may miss meeting Evelynn Takoff who is the co-chef de cuisine and has been at RauDZ for over four years. Takoff has won the prestigious Les Dames d’Escoffier scholarship twice. Sharing the chef de cuisine role is the

LIFE’S TOO SHORT TO DRINK BAD WINE. - unknown

talented Tyler Leeson who recently placed second in the BC Chef of the Year Competition and is a certified chef de cuisine.

The front of house at RauDZ flows smoothly in the capable hands of assistant manager Amy Laird who is both brilliant and gorgeous with amazing presence and poise. Laird trained with Earls group of restaurants. Danielle Hutton is the newest member of the management team and joined as assistant manager after her time with Top Table Group at Araxi, West, and as the manager at Blue Water Cafe in Vancouver. Behind the bar you’ll find bar manager Micah Jenson who is the creative force behind the amazing cocktail list with an almost encyclopedic knowledge of spirits and cocktails. Jenson will be quick to pour you a drink you won’t soon forget.

A big congratulation to owners Surrao and Butters for attracting, training and holding on to such great talent. ~ Cassandra Anderton

With over 200 wineries in the Okanagan Valley and probably hundreds of award winning wines - we don’t have bad wine but we do have wine for every tastebud and occasion imaginable. Some prefer more minerality, some love the essence of chocolate and others can’t get enough of the fresh scent of strawberries. At RauDZ, we taste our local wine all year round, looking for the best wines to not only pair with Chef Butters’ dishes but to also discover some new favourites from passionate winemakers. Enjoy life & drink Okanagan wine!

- Chef Rod Butters and Audrey Surrao

Open 7 days a week from 5 p.m.

1560 Water Street, Kelowna

RauDZ

250•868•8805

www.raudz.com

RauDZ Super Staff

Taking dinner & a movie to a whole new level

Enjoy films about food and/or wine and then eat & drink what you saw on the screen September 13 - 15, 2013 Rotary Centre for the Arts, Kelowna www.okfoodwinefilmfest.com

okfoodwinefilm

okfoodwinefilmfest

Thanks to Brodo, Cherryhill Coffee, Codfathers Seafood Market, Grapevine Restaurant, Mission Hill Terrace Restaurant, Mission Hill Winery, Okanagan Chefs Association, Poppadoms, Quinta Ferriera, RauDZ Regional Table, Sandrine French Pastry & Chocolate, Squeezed Wines and more for their support. www.winetrails.ca

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 15

◆ Kelowna

The Ladies of Summerhill Pyramid Winery

nternational, diverse, organic, sustainable, elegant... these words describe the worldclass experience of Kelowna’s Summerhill Pyramid Winery and the Sunset Organic Bistro. Over 20 years of award-winning winemaking at Canada’s largest organic winery has placed Summerhill in a class unto itself. Its success is composed of many factors, one of which is the effect of the influential ladies of Summerhill.

A busy winery like Summerhill requires an intense team effort. During peak season, Summerhill employs over 100 people, many of whom are women. In fact, most of the key positions are filled by ladies. This interesting demographic led me to a great discussion about the important role women play in the theatre of Summerhill with Ruth Hanbury, Director of Consumer Wine Sales.

Like many team members, Hanbury started her Summerhill experience working in the wine shop and cellar, believing that it’s important for anyone in the wine industry to be a part of the cellar work. It makes you look

I

Page 16 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

at a bottle of wine a little differently – where it came from, what work went into it.”

Hanbury describes Summerhill as a supportive winery that encourages staff “to further themselves. It’s a very empowered workplace: we care about each other and Summerhill. There is freedom to explore here: from working in different aspects of the winery, to being able to create and implement new ideas, like our wine club.”

Hanbury says, “We wouldn’t be here without the award-winning wines – above and beyond that is the family aspect – Summerhill is my Canadian family. It comes down to the people, to the team at the end of the day. We all have different stresses and there is lots to do, but we have a team around us that truly supports us, so Summerhill can move forward and keep delivering.”

In addition to the empowered work environment, Summerhill boasts a true international flavour. People from all over the world come here to work, and the effect is unmistakable. Summerhill welcomes the world to its doors every step of the way,

producing an authenticity felt by its visitors and employees.

In order to really experience the magic of Summerhill, Hanbury feels taking one of it’s daily tours (available at 12, 2, 4 & 6pm) is a must-do.

“Learn about organic, bio-dynamic farming, how sparkling wines are made and experience the pyramid. It’s fun, friendly, and unlike any other wine tour in the Okanagan!” says Hanbury.

“Summerhill has so much here – the wines, the tour, the bistro and restaurant, the heritage house, the kekuli and the licensed picnic area. There are things for families with kids to do. Spend the afternoon, enjoy the vineyard, spend a couple of hours or more.

You can easily spend the whole day here – we do. Every day! We’re the winery that welcomes everyone – we let people walk in the vineyard, look at the gardens – we’re open to everyone. You really aren’t just coming to a winery, you come to an experience of the Okanagan.” ~ Sarah Willard www.winetrails.ca

◆ Kelowna/Feature

SpierHead – Best New Winery 2012

S

pierHead - named Best New Winery at the 2012 BC Wine Awards - continues to handcraft its small lot wines in order to maintain the highest quality.

This means that their new wine

club is increasingly important to oenophiles who want to buy wines that aren’t available to the public, such as its Gold Medal winning 2010 Pinot Noir (Wine Access Canadian Wine Awards) and 2011 Pinot Noir.

Best New Winery ~ 2012 BC Wine Awards

The club provides four shipments per year of customer-selected red and/or white wines; members receive a 10% discount on these and subsequent purchases. The club may also be releasing some library wines to members only.

Two new wines have just been released - their first Pinot Noir Rosé and a Pinot Gris. Also new are colorenhanced labels and the plan to vinify two levels of Pinot Noir from the 2012 vintage. The 2012 Pinot Gris ($18.90) shows pineapple and lychee on the nose, which follows through with lovely fruit flavours and a crisp, clean finish. The 2012 Rosé ($18.90) has a lively strawberry color and aroma, cherry/raspberry flavours and is soft and dry on the palate – the favourite of one of the proprietors (and winner of a Best of Varietal Award at the Spring Wine

Two Cups of Rhubarb Jam with Honey & Rosemary

the

Linger over a glass of one of our award winning wines and

enjoy the view from our picnic area.

Open for tastings and sales from 11am to 5:30pm: Weekends in June and daily July through October.

Located in south east Kelowna and member of the Fab Five Wine Trail.”

3950 Spiers Rd., Kelowna 250.763.7777 info@spierheadwinery.com spierheadwinery.com

Celebrating Andy & Tj’s

10-Year

On-Air Anniversary!

Festival)! It will only be available at the winery.

Veteran winemaker Bill Pierson will also be releasing the 2011 Vanguard, 2011 Pursuit and 2012 Chardonnay in July. Come out to the “Fab 5’s” Flip Flop on the Hilltop on June 15 to taste their new releases and enjoy live music and appies. Mark your calendars now to ensure your chance to win one of five mixed cases of wine by getting your “Fab 5” Passport stamped October 4th to 14th at the participating wineries! ~ Allison Fader

Jam Goddess Irene Ens

W

ho does not remember sitting on the porch on summer evenings, dipping a stalk of rhubarb into a bowl of sugar? I suppose there are people who don’t like rhubarb, but I don’t know any. The tart flavor seems universally loved.

This jam is one of my favourites.

There is something about the honey and rosemary that adds a huge depth of flavour to the jam. I love it on bread but also stirred into plain yogurt. You can also eat it as a condiment with chicken or pork. And, if you want to bake a matrimonial cake but aren’t nuts about dates, this makes a great filling.

Ingredients

1 pound chopped rhubarb (1/2 kilo) 1 ½ cups sugar (300 g) 3 ½ ounces honey (100 gm) Juice 1 small lemon 5 sprigs rosemary

the juice of one lemon overnight.

The next day, sieve and pour juice into a saucepan. Add the rest of the lemon juice, the honey and the rosemary. Cook to 214 degrees (at Calgary altitude) – reduced volume by about half if you don’t have a thermometer. I take the rosemary out at this point because if it’s not really fresh, the spears will come off the stalk and you’ll spend a lot of time fishing them out of the jam.

Now, add the diced rhubarb and cook gently till set. It will be quite thick with little liquid and bubble like molten lava. Do not stop stirring – it burns easily. Fish out the Rosemary before jarring. Place in a jar that you have washed in hot, soapy water and put in the oven for 10 minutes at 250º F. Let cool on the counter, then refrigerate.

Method

Cut rhubarb into small dice.

Macerate the rhubarb, the sugar and www.winetrails.ca

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 17

◆ West

Kelowna

Westside Wine Trail – A Delicious Destination

J

ust across the bridge from Kelowna, the new community of West Kelowna is a wine aficionado’s dream destination, and all nine of the area’s wineries have joined forces to provide an experience that is second to none.

Enter the Westside Wine Trail, an idea which began to be formulated four years ago. Since then, the Westside Wine Trail concept has become a strong, alluring tourism product.

Participating wineries include Mission Hill Family Estate, Quails’ Gate Estate Winery, Little Straw Vineyards, Volcanic Hills Estate Winery, Mt. Boucherie Family Estate Winery, Rollingdale Winery, Kalala Organic Estate Winery, Meadow Vista Honey Wines and Beaumont Family Estate Winery.

The driving force behind the Westside Wine Trail is the nine families who own these wineries, and their common desire to create and leave a legacy for decades to

come. This group of wineries offer a common experience with unique elements.

Most wineries are located within 2 km of each other, and overlook Okanagan Lake. Volcanic Hills, Quails’ Gate, Mission Hill and Little Straw feature on-site restaurants, and several offer licensed picnic or patio areas.

The Westside Wine Trail’s representative, Salina Petschulat Curtis, explains the role of the wine trail.

“We are creating the quintessential wine touring destination in the Okanagan,” she says. “You can find anything from a tiny winery to the largest in the area. The Westside Wine Trail can be described as the area where rural and sophistication meet in the Okanagan. Some of them have been growing grapes since the 1950’s and 1960’s. They are here for the long term.”

3 award-winning organic ‘wineries’ at one amazing location – Kalala, 3 Cru & Dostana

W

est Kelowna is home to some of the biggest names in Okanagan’s wine industry. Some are known to many outside the ‘industry’, while some, like Karnail Singh Sidhu, are best known to those ‘in the know’.

Held in high regard by the Okanagan wineries and beyond, Sidhu truly is “the viticulturist’s” viticulturist. The Kalala Organic Estate Winery proprietor’s kind and humble nature belies the fact that he is one of the most esteemed names in organic farming throughout North America. Sidhu’s award-winning Organic Estates wineries of Kalala, 3 Cru and Dostana are a testament to his expertise.

With three wine labels available at one convenient location, a visit to Kalala is an opportunity suitable for any palate, or budget! As of the 2012 vintage, the grapes used in every bottle of wine comes

The real beauty of the Westside Wine Trail, aside from the stunning scenery and delectable wines, is the elements which make this such a desirable tourism experience. It

W E S T

is a blend of wine, culture, food, art, events and music...all served up in fine fashion to visitors near and far. ~ Deanna Rainey

K E L O W N A

•

W E S T B A N K

Rolling hills of vineyards, picturesque lake views and world-class winemakers and chefs

from Certified Organic vineyards.

The Kalala brand represents the largest production – winemaker Tibor Erdelyi creates nearly a dozen reds, whites and icewines produced primarily off the Sidhu family’s 17-acre vineyards located on site, with 80 additional acres in the Okanagan and Similkameen valleys. 3 Cru is a fun, costconscious brand offering two selections of blended wines: Nomad (white) and Traveller (red). Dostana represents the smallest lot production, and its single vineyard, terroir-driven, quality wines will entice any wine connoisseur. Recently, Dostana’s Chardonnay and Kalala’s Riesling were picked ‘runner-up’ for best of varietal at the Canadian Oyster Wine Competition.

Step off the beaten trail and make tracks to Kalala. Discover their well-earned reputation for yourself: you’ll always want to return. ~ Sarah Willard

Page 18 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

www.winetrails.ca

◆ West

Indulge in Farm to Table Cuisine Lakeside at The Cove

T

he Cove Lakeside Resort in West Kelowna is home to one of the area’s prime dining venues, The Bonfire Restaurant.

Located on the waterfront in the heartland of Okanagan wine country, The Cove has become a premier culinary destination.

The Cove Resort’s suites allow guests to indulge in luxury features like stainless steel appliances and wine coolers, wall-mounted HD televisions, fireplaces and more.

Just minutes from The Cove, guests are treated to endless attractions including championship golf, world-class wineries and beautiful Okanagan Lake on where the property is situated. The City of Kelowna is also just minutes away across the William R. Bennett bridge.

Out boating on the lake this summer and looking for a place to stop and eat? The Cove Resort offers complementary docking for visitors with their “dock and dine” program at the marina as well as long-term moorage in Gellatly Bay. Pull up and enjoy use of their shoreline fire pits, or call ahead or order online

to order food for pick up. The full Bonfire Restaurant menu is also now available for service to those lounging pool and lake side. Live music from various local musicians and dancing on both Friday and Saturday nights make The Cove a great local hang out as well.

Chef Grant De Montreuil’s summer garden will soon be in full swing with his tomatoes, basil, fancy lettuces, rainbow chard and kale ready to be incorporated into the Bonfire Restaurant’s new summer menu. Always sourcing locally when possible, De Montreuil works with suppliers such as Outlandish Shellfish for oysters and fresh seafood, Two Rivers Meats for their heritage beef and Peace River lamb, Yarrow Meadows for duck and Sloping Hills for BC pork. Little Creek Farm, Ravens View and Roger Borrett’s East Kelowna Farm supplement his garden with berries and seasonal produce allowing the kitchen the luxury to produce the farm to table cuisine they are known for. ~ Cassandra Anderton

Kelowna

Lazeez Indian Restaurant to open soon at Volcanic Hills Estate Winery

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amily owned and operated Volcanic Hills Estate Winery of West Kelowna continues to gain devoted fans and accolades through the Gidda family’s hard work and dedication to producing high quality wines.

Voted Best New Winery of 2011, it continues to display strength in its broad portfolio of wines.

At the Spring Okanagan Wine Festival (May 2013) it won Best of Varietal Awards for its 2010 Pinot Noir and its 2012 Rosé.

Proprietor Bobby Gidda is pleased that they have been able to increase their production from 7,000 to 10,000 cases while maintaining high quality across their portfolio of wines.

Spring has seen the release of their 2011 Magma Red (predominantly Zweigelt blend), 2012 Pinot Gris (no oak, refreshing citrus finish) and two 2012 Gewürztraminers.

The silver label Gewürztraminer ($18.90) shows a floral nose,

citrus and peach on the palate, good balance and a clean, crisp finish. The Single-Vineyard Gewürztraminer (gold label) shows more complexity and varietal character, with a bit more residual sugar. My favourite for pairing with Asian dishes!

Speaking of Asian dishes, the winery’s new restaurant, Lazeez, is expected to open this year.

Lazeez, which means ‘delicious’ in Urdu will offer indoor and outdoor dining featuring East Indian cuisine. The restaurant will start with 40 seats, eventually expanding to as many as 140 seats. It is expected to be open seven days a week for lunch service until mid-October.

Be sure to stop by soon and see the lovely new merchandise, enjoy a tasting with the professional and knowledgeable staff, and stock up on your favourites before they sell out! ~Allison Fader

e g l u d In

Y OUR P ALATE.

EXCEPTIONAL WATERFRONT DINING IN WEST KELOWNA 4205 GELLATLY ROAD, WEST KELOWNA • 250.707.1810 WWW.BONFIREGRILLATTHECOVE.COM www.winetrails.ca

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B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 19

◆ West

Kelowna Mt. Boucherie Family Estate Winery...

Tasty Tranquillity

Wine Country, Your Way Winemaker Jim Faulkner

im Faulkner, winemaker at Mt. Boucherie Family Estate Winery was busy the day I visited with bottling, labelling and preparing for the Okanagan Wine Festival. Visitors are tasting new releases and snapping photos from the outdoor deck. But the feeling when you enter Mt. Boucherie, and sit on the patio overlooking Okanagan Lake, is one of peace and tranquillity.

It is time to celebrate the release of some fabulous new wines, and Jim says the 2012 vintage is one of the best he’s experienced.

“We’re releasing our 2012 Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer and Ehrenfelser,” he says. “The Pinot Gris is our largest seller, our most popular wine, and we can’t keep up with the demand.

We’ve bottled 2,500 cases this year, up from 2,000 last year and we ran short.”

The 2012 Pinot Gris is a refreshing, fruit-forward white with aromas and flavours of pear, golden delicious apple and a hint of honey, lime and starfruit.

It pairs perfectly with tuna tartare, ceviche, poultry or light pasta dishes. The perennially popular Gewürztraminer is well balanced and dry, with notes of lychee, rose petals and a hint of spice. Enjoy it

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with oysters Parmesan or a truffle omelette. The 2012 Ehrenfelser is described as a great summer sipper! It offers intense aromas and flavours of oranges, lemon and lime. Pair it with grilled jerk chicken or red Thai curry.

The new reds are also making their debut, including a first-ever Mt. Boucherie Family Reserve 2012 Gamay Noir with aromas of mocha, cherry pie and vanilla. It is structured on the palate with elements of red currant, black raspberries and a hint of ground black pepper. The Gamay Noir is a great compliment to roast duck, toasted quinoa and beet salad or grilled spicy sausages.

Mt. Boucherie’s new 2011 Pinot Noir is medium bodied with aromas of berries and cherry. It works ideally with grilled tuna, duck dishes or mushroom risotto.

And finally, be sure to try the 2011 Gamay Noir, a lighter-bodied red with flavours of cranberry and strawberry. Pair it with with veggies and quinoa, pizza or tapas.

Mt. Boucherie’s owners have been growing grapes in the Okanagan since 1968, and opened the current winery in 2000. And as Jim Faulkner says, “From vineyard to bottle, we do it all.”

Page 20 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

~ Deanna Rainey

Join us on the West Kelowna Wine Trail, where our welcoming staff offers daily wine tastings.

Bring your picnic basket and stay awhile on the patio or the winery grounds, and do it all at your own pace.

No timeline, no formality, just a chance to unwind and taste great wines.

WINE SHOP OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

May 1 – October 30, 10am – 6pm November 1 – April 30, 11am – 5pm MT. BOUCHERIE FAMILY ESTATE WINERY 829 DOUGLAS ROAD, WEST KELOWNA BC V1Z 1N9 250-769-8803 • TOLL FREE 1-877-684-2748

Talk to us on Twitter @mtboucheriewine Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/mtboucheriewine

www.mtboucheriewinery.com www.winetrails.ca

t ◆ West

Kelowna/Summerland

Quails’ Gate Winery Opens Stewart Family Room

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isitors to Quails’ Gate Winery have always enjoyed the Old Vines Restaurant and Wine Bar run by the capable hands of Chef Roger Sleiman, but there is now have a second option at this scenic winery. The winery has opened up the Stewart Family Room to guests and is serving daily tapas, light bites and wine flights. They’ll be a few different salads, charcuterie and cheese;

food for sharing alongside wines to match. A bit more casual than the restaurant, drop in and relax after your tour.

Chef Sleiman continues to focus on farm to table cuisine using the bounty of the Okanagan and his own estate herb gardens to craft menu items for both the Old Vines Wine Bar and the new Stewart Family Room. During the summer the “Dinner in the Vineyard” series continues with

Cellar Door Club exclusive events on July 25 and August 24, 2013 and a dinner open to the general public on July 13 and August 8, 2013. The evening begins with wine and canapés in the vineyard where you’re introduced to the Quails’ Gate Winery Team and then continues with a winery tour and a multi-course wine paired dinner amongst the vines.

Spring releases at Quails’ Gate Winery included the great summer sippers the winery is known for – Chasselas/Pinot Blanc/Pinot Gris, Chenin Blanc and Rosé. The fall will see the 2012 reds making an appearance.

Chef Roger Sleiman (L) with farmer Tony Cetinski from Suncatcher Farm.

''Quails’ Gate Chenin Blanc 2012 $18.99

This wine is a lively, crisp number with lots of citrus aromas as well as hints of tropical fruit and some floral notes. On the palate again the citrus predominates as well as some peach and stone fruit flavours. There’s a bit of a minerality to this wine and a dry finish. Great with oysters, scallops and barbequed pork. ~ Cassandra Anderton

Diversity key to Sonoran Estate Winery Success

C

PROUD SPONSOR OF

Sonoran • Winery • Bistro • B&B

Enjoy a delicious lunch on our patio. The Full Moon Bistro is open from 11.30am to 2.30pm every day.

5716 Gartrell Rd., Summerland www.winetrails.ca

250-494-9323 SonoranWinery.com

entrally located on Summerland’s popular wine route, The Bottleneck Drive, Sonoran Estate winery epitomizes the family-friendly farmgate atmosphere, where one can indulge in a diverse collection of quality wines, all without the tasting fee. Whether your preference leans to crisp, austere whites, fruitforward blends, rich reds, sparkling or icewine – Sonoran has got it all!

May through October, Sonoran’s ‘Full Moon Bistro’ is open daily for lunches (11:30 – 2:30). Take in the spectacular views on their 2000 square-foot lake-view patio and enjoy delicious homemade fare like paninis, wraps, soups, salads, or their famous Baked Brie.

Reservations recommended for parties of six or more.

''Golfer Series Riesling Gewürztraminer $12.90 Sonoran’s refreshing, price-savvy white continues to be their most popular offering. This year’s labelling features the same “Golfer Series” painting by Summerland artist, Will Enns (www.willenns.com), but now on a brown-glass bottle. ''2012 Ehrenfelser $17.90 A crisp, fruit-forward white with a citrus-floral finish. Great with light BBQ fare such as veggie kabobs, grilled prawns, pork tenderloin and veggie burgers. ''Fire on Ice $19.90 Rich in flavour, colour and aroma, Sonoran’s newest dessert wine is a blend of Merlot and Ehrenfelser late harvest and icewine. Featuring irresistible maple, orange-zest and dried fruit elements. Excellent alone or in a Bellini. ~ Sarah Willard

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 21

◆ Summerland

Dirty Laundry Vineyard’s Gewürztraminer wins “Best of Varietal”

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ales and marketing manager Judi Skinner gazes out her Marilyn Monroe-bedecked office to Dirty Laundry Vineyard’s (DLV) spectacular views below. “It’s going to be another great lineup of free entertainment on our gorgeous patio,” she says with a smile.

Every summer weekend, DLV features live music. Stop in, taste the newest vintages and then pick out a wine or something from their deli counter before heading to the patio to soak in the sounds, sun and ambiance of this popular Summerland destination.

Alberta fans will be excited to find their coveted wines more easily as DLV welcomes the Gold Medal Marketing (GMM) team. GMM president Andy Dunn says they are “extremely proud to be the Alberta agency for Dirty Laundry Vineyard.

We’ve been looking for the right BC winery to represent for a long time – to get a winery of this quality is a testament to our staff and the winery.”

DLV’s hot new website is up and running. Sign up to be a VIP (no charge) and get 10% off

your first purchase. The Bordello Wine Club has been completely overhauled and with basic “Peek-aboo” memberships as low as $85, almost anybody can afford to join.

Looking for gifts that aren’t bottleshaped? Visit www.dirtylaundry.ca for shopping ideas ranging from sexy underwear to coquettish bottle stoppers, and shop till you drop! ''2012 ‘Threadbare Vines’ Gewürztraminer $19.99

“Best of Varietal” winner at the 2013 Okanagan Spring Wine Festival, the least-known sister of DLV’s three Gewürztraminer ‘siblings,’ Threadbare is getting rave reviews – particularly from chefs seeking the food friendly drier style rarely found in Gewürz. Exhibiting the varietal’s classic aromas of rose petal, lychee and spice. DLV attributes “Threadbare’s” lack of notoriety to her name, and has issued a call for something sexier. Email ideas to: themadam@dirtylaundry.ca by September 15th. Winning name and prizes will be announced in October! ~ Sarah Willard

From ‘Mine-to-Bling’ at DeLong Studio

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hile many involved in the Okanagan’s wine and tourism industries spend their winter months rejuvenating, DeLong Studio proprietors Anita & John DeLong are busy on a grand adventure – hunting down and creating one-of-a-kind treasures and jewellery that will grace their Summerland boutique.

Summer is the biggest season at DeLong Studio, revealing the greatest variety of hand-crafted silversmith jewellery, accessories, and more.

Silver remains DeLong Studio’s focalpoint, paired handsomely with sidedishes of hand-tooled leather purses, exquisite pottery, hand-blown dichoic glass pieces, hand-woven raw-silk Kashaya scarves, and gemstone specimens.

Spending time perusing their aesthetically-pleasing boutique is to jewellery what a 9-course fine-dining experience is to food. A leisurely pace is the best way to appreciate the intimate knowledge of everything the DeLong’s have to offer.

DeLong Studios parallels the trend in the food-to-fork ‘Slow-Food’ movement, what John calls their ‘mine-to-bling’ experience. With

every ring, bracelet or necklace, the DeLongs can trace it’s ancestry: where the gems were mined, the worldclass artisans who made or co-created them. A story in authenticity unfolds as you find yourself admiring the particular piece that ‘speaks’ to you or for someone you love.

In women’s fashion, Anita sees a return to the art-nouveau retroFrench looks adored by Jackie-O and recently, Adele. Pearls, like Baroque and Tahitian, are trending along with big, signature pieces. For men, understated yet impressive elements, like gemstone cuff-links and turquoise-set leather-worked bracelets, are an impeccable choice.

New to the studio are retro-Russian pieces of classic art (such as Gustav Klimt’s ‘The Kiss’) hand-painted on mother-of-pearl. A signature necklace like one of these can transform any attire into a sensation.

Whatever your style, DeLong Studio is sure to have something that will capture your heart. As the ephemeral taste of Okanagan wines fade away, a piece from DeLong Studio will allow your Okanagan memories to endure.

Page 22 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

~ Sarah Willard

Fine Silver Jewellery U ni q u e H a n d cra f t ed D es ig n s • Op e n D a ily 1 0 -5

250.494.5155

Visit DeLong Studio: Turn off Hwy 97 at Travel Land, onto Wharf St., Right on Nixon, Right on Williams. 4420 Williams Ave., Summerland (in Trout Creek)

w w w. d el o n g s t u dio . c o m www.winetrails.ca

◆ Summerland

Visit okanagan crush pad – An Award-Winning Wine Country Visit

f you want to have a rare glance into the art of winemaking, then you’ll want to visit Okanagan Crush Pad in Summerland this summer.

Open June 15 to September 30, this combination winery/custom crush facility is popular with visitors because it makes its own wines as well making wine for an ever-changing line up of clients.

At Okanagan Crush Pad, you’ll get to watch the cellar team and discover why they make wine in their six egg-shaped concrete tanks. The winery’s Italian consulting winemaker, Alberto Antonini, strongly believes in concrete tanks, used by European vintners long ago, because they accentuate grape characters to bring out the natural attributes of a wine. Chief winemaker Michael Bartier has worked concrete into his regime, and the winery’s first “Raised in Concrete™” Haywire Switchback Vineyard Pinot Gris 2011 was just released to great acclaim.

You’ll also be able to taste the limited release house wines Haywire and Bartier Scholefield along with a unique range of

I

in Summerland

www.winetrails.ca

wines from other BC vintners in the tasting room. This is in the heart of the cellar, which is where the action takes place. Wander Switchback Vineyard for a peek at how Okanagan Crush Pad is making the transition to organic farming. Bring a picnic and take in some sun while you relax on the patio.

Okanagan Crush Pad has been very successful since its inception.

It was just named a top innovator for 2013 by both BC Business Magazine and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association.

One of the reasons for this success is the expert Crush Pad team. Owner Christina Coletta, for example, has been in the wine industry since 1990 and among many achievements, was instrumental in the establishment of the VQA program.

“Wine starts in the vineyard, which must be planted with precision, farmed using natural techniques, and closely monitored throughout the growing year,” says Christine. “We treat each lot of wine differently, with the goal of crafting vineyard-specific wines.” ~ Dona Sturmanis

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 23

◆ Penticton

The Bench Market Presses all the right buttons

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awn Lennie, owner of the Bench Market in Penticton loves the summer. And this summer both locals and visitors will have new things to look forward to.

Barista extraordinaire, Dan Gauthier and his team are introducing an international coffee menu. Blending two types of beans from Summerland’s Backyard Beans, they’ll be creating Cafecitos (Cuban coffee), Greek, and Iced Vietnamese coffees as well as reprising the Bench Café’s Mohitos. For tea lovers, they’ll be brewing up Thai tea with Turmeric.

The summer menu will feature lighter fare for the hot Okanagan weather. Eating in or taking away, you’ll find a deli case filled with freshly made salads incorporating kale and healthy grains like black barley and quinoa. Of course there will be a variety of “grab and go”

sandwiches. In response to customer requests, Chef Stewart Glynes is increasing the range of gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options.

Planning a picnic? Fresh organic bread from Farmersdotter in Cawston will be delivered Saturdays to The Bench. Add some cheese, dips, deli meat, cold drinks and salad and you’re ready to go.

The Bench Market is a popular place for triathletes and cyclists, especially during the summer. This year Dawn has expanded bicycle parking outside the café to ensure easy and safe parking for her two (or three) wheeled patrons.

It may not be new, but the Bench’s famous Eggs Benny will still be served weekends and holidays. Dawn and her staff also provide catering for reunions and other special occasions. Call the Bench Market or drop in for further information. ~ Sue Harper

Cultural Tourism Feast at Cormier’s Studio

“I

f art and food are your passion, then ‘you gotta be here”!” says owner/artist Kena Cumming Cormier. Both artists, Kena and husband Lawrence have fully integrated their art into their beautiful lakeview B&B/art gallery with whimsical, colourful art found adorning walls to metal sculptures in the garden, it is a celebration of art and culture. Kena also notes, “Our artwork can be found in collections through out the world”.

Those interested in the art of gastronomy will be delighted with their locavorian-focused cuisine.

Breakfasts are created with fresh from the market fare and locally roasted coffee is served. After breakfast guests can wander the garden or walk down to the lake for

a stroll. Of course, the B&B is also located in the middle of one of the most beautiful wine regions, so the art of winemaking is also included in the artistic theme at Cormier’s Studio.

This recent Trip Advisor review says it all: “Great Location, walk to downtown and waterfront. Beautiful rooms, comfortable, clean, well laid out and full of artwork. The whole home and gardens outside are full of artwork. It was such a pleasure to stay here. Kena and Lawrence are friendly and helpful. The breakfasts were incredible. We would highly recommend this B&B.” The gallery is open most days from 11am – 5pm. ~ Jennifer Schell

ART STUDIO TOURBC

Follow the purple signs & venture out on your self-guided driving tour, you will be ever so delighted that you did! Boasting 12 artisan studios, your tour begins on Vancouver Avenue & meanders along the Naramta Bench to the quaint and picturesque village of Naramata.

During your tour you will meet artists who have chosen to live & work in the unique setting that is the Naramata Bench. Offering a tremendous variety in studio sites, you’ll see places you didn’t know existed and you might discover your new, favourite artist.

A cultural tourism feast!

Indulge yourself in our luxurious B&Bluxurious and enjoyB&B A cultural tourism feast!

Indulge yourself in our enjoy a yummy in theoverlooking art gallery Okanagan overlooking Okanagan Lake. aand yummy breakfast inbreakfast the art gallery Lake.

Lawrence andcreates Kena creates Open most days 11-5.

Lawrence sculptssculpts and Kena mixed mixed media media wallart!wallart!

Open most days 11-5.

A map & brochure can be downloaded off Lawrence & Kena Cormier 495 Vancouver Ave.,Penticton BC V2A 1A4 our website at www.naramataartstudios.comA cultural tourism feast! Indulge yourself in our B&B Lawrence & luxurious Kena Cormier or pick one up from any of our participating 250-493-3273 and enjoy a yummy breakfast in the art gallerywww.cormierstudio.com overlooking Okanagan Lake. lkcormier@shaw.ca 495wallart!

Vancouver Ave., studios. With your map in hand, we hope that sculpts and Kena creates mixed media Lawrence Open most days 11-5. by touring our multiple and diverse studios you Penticton, BC V2A 1A4 Lawrence & Kena Cormier 495 Vancouver 250-493-3273 Ave.,Penticton BC V2A 1A4 will experience the artistic spirit that exemplifies www.cormierstudio.com lkcormier@shaw.ca the Naramata Bench. Start or expand an250-493-3273 art www.cormierstudio.com collection through personal connections....... lkcormier@shaw.ca the adventure begins with you!

A cultural tourism feast! Indulge yourself in our luxurious B&B and enjoy a yummy breakfast in the art gallery overlooking Okanagan Lake.

Lawrence sculpts and Kena creates mixed media wallart! Open most days 11-5.

Page 24 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 Lawrence & Kena Cormier

495 Vancouver Ave.,Penticton BC V2A 1A4 250-493-3273 www.cormierstudio.com lkcormier@shaw.ca

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Penticton

Perseus Winery, Where vision meets passion ust in time for summer, Perseus Winery unveils their new tasting room in Penticton. Perched on the entrance to the Naramata Bench, tucked into a residential area, they realized they needed to revamp the tasting room to attract attention to the scope of their winery. It’s unique – the only winery that you can walk to from Penticton, making it your first stop on the way out or the last stop on your way back from a Naramata Bench tour. To aid you in your wine tour planning, Perseus will be providing a wine info centre to let you know what other wineries on the Bench are doing. It’s all part of their ‘savvy sipper’ program to help educate and provide information – especially for first time wine tourists – to know just what to do when they visit a winery. Watch also for a bistro to open later in the summer and their new deck to enjoy a relaxing glass of wine.

In 2011 the Terrabella group was formed by three long time friends: Rob Ingram, Sam Elia and Bob

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Hole and together they established Perseus Winery. “I was excited about moving to the Okanagan and fascinated by the business aspect of this burgeoning industry, “ says Partner Rob Ingram, “it’s thrilling to create a thriving urban wine centre, where people at all levels of wine knowledge and appreciation can come and embrace the art of wine.”

Their main focus at Perseus is quality, and quality at a reasonable price with wines that reflect the distinctive terroir of each of their Okanagan and Similkameen vineyards. While their flagship wine is definitely their fabulous Bordeaux-style blend ‘Invictus’ (Latin for “unconquerable”) you’ll want to try their gorgeous summer release, Gewürztraminer, just perfect for enjoying on the patio. ''Perseus 2012 Gewürztraminer Ambrosia apple nectar and allspice flavours with floral cherry blossom notes. An excellent table mate for spicy foods or to be enjoyed on its own. ~ Terry Meyer-Stone

Present this code and receive 10% off your purchase online or in our tasting room on all regular priced wines: WTS2013 Expiry date: September 30, 2013

Named for a hero‘s constellation, we are Penticton‘s in-town winery.

Taste and experience our quality wines in our bistro and info centre.

Perseus_8-25x4-875_WTS_p.indd www.winetrails.ca

1

134 Lower Bench Rd., Penticton, BC | wine@perseuswinery.com Toll free: 1.888.880.6605 | Phone: 250.490.8829 facebook.com/perseuswine @perseuswine See WWW.PERSEuSWiNERy.Com to order online and to join our wine club.

17.04.13 12:0225 B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page

◆ Penticton

A Celebration of Excellence at Upper Bench Winery & Creamery

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here are plenty of things to celebrate at Upper Bench Winery & Creamery this summer.

Cheesemaker Shana Miller has been selected from over a hundred applicants to take part in ACE Bakery’s Artisan Incubator. In June, Shana will travel to Toronto where she will meet successful chefs, publishers and food entrepreneurs eager to share their knowledge of the artisan food industry. Not only will Shana attend seminars and workshops, she will have the opportunity to introduce her cheese to a national audience.

What better way to enjoy Shana’s cheese than by pairing it with her husband, Gavin’s new release red

wines? He’s particularly proud of his Cabernet Sauvignon ($35.00). The first year they owned the winery2011- was a cold year. “We’re right on the edge of where it’s hot enough to ripen the grapes. They shouldn’t have ripened, but they did.” Gavin describes the wine as elegant. Black cherry, cassis, cedar, mint and cigar box with a kind of tarry-ness to it. He recommends

Party in The Kitchen this summer

A

unique fusion food restaurant has come to the Naramata Bench. The Kitchen at Misconduct Wine Co. brings a taste of Mexico infused with Portuguese and local Okanagan flavours. Mexican born Chef Abul Adame has teamed up with Portuguese, Misconduct winery co-owner, Richard da Silva, to bring an exciting new taste to Okanagan diners.

The restaurant is located just off of the winery’s tasting room and features a striking sprawled deck with a panoramic view. The tapas menu features tapas from $5 or $10 with exquisite dishes such as shrimp and octopus ceviche, grilled chorizo with braised cabbage, toasted walnut and chickpea roasted garlic spread, and mussels and clams in the winery’s own Massacre Rosé sauce. For $24, two guests can dine on Misconduct’s signature paella.

Chef Abul also offers a fabulous Chef’s Selection dinner, where, as he puts it, “I take care of them, anything they like, I cook until the table is

full”. These unique Chef Selection dinners range in price from $47-$56 per person. Diners are welcome to come anytime as no reservations are required. Simply order the Chef’s Selection and Chef Abul will create signature food sharing plates based on the diners’ food preferences. All menu items pair exquisitely with Misconduct’s wines.

On July 21st The Kitchen at Misconduct will be hosting an evening of music called Solstice Music. There will be a DJ, drinks and a red and white dress theme.

For tickets to the event please call toll free: 1-800-851-0903 or visit the website: www.misconductwineco. com/kitchen ~ Natasha Chudyk

Page 26 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

pairing it with Shana’s Grey Baby or King Cole blue cheeses.

Upper Bench is also releasing a new Zweigelt ($23.00), which is not grown widely on the Bench. It has big fruit flavor – black current, cassis and chocolate. An easy to drink wine, it goes well with Shana’s Okanagan Sun2.

With their staple Pinot Noir, the new release Merlot ($29.00) completes the quartet of reds. Less fruity, the Merlot has a darkness to it with quite

a lot of barrel influence. King Cole or Sun2 are Shana’s recommended pairings. Enjoy Upper Bench’s wine and cheese year round by joining the Wine and Cheese Club. You can choose “Wine Only” or “Wine and Cheese.” Each shipment of “Wine Only” includes 3 wines (2 bottles each). If you opt for “Wine and Cheese” you get the same wine options along with 3 pieces of Artisan cheese. ~ Sue Harper

THe “big cHeese”

Open daily frOm 10am tO 6pm 170 Upper Bench rOad SOUth, pentictOn t. 250 770 1733 www.UpperBench.ca

The Red Light’s on, code for knock twice to come in.

Clandestine by nature, come enjoy the food and atmosphere people are whispering about!

Culinary creations by Executive Chef Abul Adame.

Reservations are highly recommended... tel: 1-800-851-0903 www.thekitchen-mwco.com email: thechef@misconductwineco.com

L-R Chef Abul, Richard & Twylla da Silva

Located at Miconduct Wine Co. on the Naramata Bench at 375 Upper Bench Road North, Penticton, BC

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Naramata

Naramata Bench - A story in every bottle

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here’s a story in every bottle” is the tagline of the Naramata Bench Wineries Association.

It’s true too; when you bring a bottle of their wine home with you, the memories from your visit come

pouring out along with the wine. The Association members are committed to not only offering quality wines, but also to being fun and accessible to their visitors. Visiting the Naramata Bench is about more than just tasting

wine; it is about enjoying the unique experiences that this group of wineries offers.

Twenty-four member wineries stretch from one end of the Naramata Bench to the other and include: Kettle Valley Winery, Therapy Vineyards, Serendipity Winery, Van Westen Vineyards, Elephant Island Orchard Wines, Lake Breeze Vineyards, Lang Vineyards, Terravista Vineyards, Moraine Estate Winery, Bench 1775 at Paradise Beach Vineyards, Black Widow Winery, Laughing Stock Vineyards, 3 Mile Estate Winery, Howling Bluff Estate Winery, Hillside Estate Winery & Bistro, D’Angelo Estate Winery, Red Rooster Winery, La Frenz Winery, Poplar Grove Winery, Monster Vineyards, Perseus Winery, Township 7 Winery, Misconduct Wine Co. & Upper Bench Winery & Creamery. Keep your eye on all of these producers and purveyors of fine

wines, their events and experiences, and fabulous restaurants, to find out what’s coming next.

Individual wineries offer a variety of winery events throughout this season, many of which are free. There are art events, live theatre, music events and behind the scenes experiences and more. The concept of getting into the vineyards and the cellars and experiencing winemaking close up has proven very popular. In addition to the individual events, this Association is presenting their party of the season, the much anticipated Annual Tailgate Party, on September 7th. Last year’s event sold out with 500 attendees. Check out the website at www.naramatabench.com for Tailgate info and tickets and check the calendar of events on the website regularly for continual event updates. ~ Courtney Fossett

3 mile winery - a family affair

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Great Things Happen When Family Comes Together 3 Mile Estate Winery Estate Grown Single Vineyard Wines ~ Guest Rooms ~ ~ Art Gallery ~ Open Daily 11:00 - 6:oo 1465 Naramata Rd., Penticton, BC www.3milewinery.com 778.476.5918 www.winetrails.ca

Mile Estate Winery is a family affair located on the Naramata Bench between Hillside Estate Winery and Laughing Stock Winery.

Sisters Gayle and Colleen share all the hats in the Tickle Trunk of winery operations with help from their husbands, their children and their (retired) father. Consulting winemaker Kelly Symonds gives Colleen a hand in the cellar to create their lineup of unique, small production wines made from grapes that are primarily grown on their reunited historical site.

The winery opened in 2010, overcoming the challenging growing conditions with amazing alacrity.

Their 2011 vintage went just as well, in spite of limited cooperation from Mother Nature.

The wines are fantastic and can be found, among other places, on the by-the-glass list at the Smack Dab - Manteo Resort in Kelowna. Gayle and Colleen are particularly excited about the upcoming 2012 vintage.

The 2012 Gewürztraminer is stunning, with classic notes of spice, lychee and roses.

The palate is exactly as a Gewürztraminer should be, with lychee, rose petals and a hint of honey and apple blossoms all balanced out with fantastic acidity, which will make this wine a great partner

for a variety of dishes. The 2010 Trio is a blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah with a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon for good measure. The nose delights with ripe black cherry, vanilla and spice. On the palate fine tannins support more black cherry with hints of tobacco, cedar, cloves and black pepper.

3 Mile Winery has a total production of roughly 1400 cases, so there isn’t much to go around. If you really want to try their wines, the best thing to do is visit their tasting room which also doubles as a guest house, an antique furniture boutique and an art gallery featuring local artist Janice Blyth. ~ Courtney Fossett

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 27

◆ Naramata

Poplar Grove Cabernet Franc - Best in Class

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oplar Grove Winery is celebrating its third season in their stunning new winery building on the Naramata Bench.

Focused on producing top quality wines from 100% Estate fruit, owner Tony Holler takes the business of wine making seriously and knows that the vast majority of the work takes place in the vineyards. Holler noted that “In 2010 the season was challenging, but we avoided a poor vintage by taking the yields down from 250 tons to 80 tons to ensure ripeness.”

The winery is known for its Cabernet Franc grown in a vineyard up against the United States border. The vineyard sees warm summers and in 2009 the fall was long with some cooler night temperatures resulting in good acidity in this bottle full of flavours of plum, cassis, sage, chocolate and dark cherry. The wine just received the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for the 2009 vintage and the 2010 Cabernet Franc Best in Class award at the 28th Pacific Rim International Wine competition.

Poplar Grove Winery delays release of their wines until they are ready to drink. This is especially important for the Legacy, a combination of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon and now Malbec added in recent years. The winery tastes hundreds of barrels and picks only the best for the blend. The recent release is 2007 which is predominately Merlot-based with some Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine saw 21 months in French oak and 24 months in the bottle resulting in a powerful, complex wine with flavours of cassis, ripe plum, leather, vanilla and spice.

Drinking well now, but could be cellared for 10 years plus.

Page 28 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

The spring releases at Poplar Grove included the 2012 Pinot Gris, a celebrated and popular wine with consumers. In 2012 this wine showed lots of tropical, citrus, grapefruit, peach and apricot notes due to a warmer season. The previous two vintages were more austere with more mineral and citrus flavours.

If you join Poplar Grove’s Wine Club now you’ll receive discounts on direct wine purchases, access to member-only wines and be just in time for the summer wine club shipment and events. Look out for them in July and August. ~ Cassandra Anderton

L-R: Owners Ian Sutherland, Tony Holler, Barrie Sali

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Naramata

Naramata Heritage Inn – A Local Treasure he 105-year-old Naramata Heritage Inn is undergoing a renaissance, guided by new owners Toni and Julius Bloomfield. The Triple E couple—Energetic, Experienced and Enthusiastic—is committed to making the Inn an attraction for local residents and visitors alike.

“It’s such a lovely building,” Julius says.

“We’ve admired it for many years. The previous owners did a marvelous job of renovating, so it’s in great condition.”

The well-known Naramata residents bring years of hospitality industry experience to their new venture. Julius spent 15 years in the pub and restaurant business in England before going into real estate. Toni, whose first job was busing at a restaurant in the Lower Mainland worked in Vancouver Island restaurants and hotels before moving to Naramata, where she was a part of starting Howling Bluff Estate Winery and managed the Poplar Grove wine and cheese shop.

With chef Thomas Render back in the kitchen, guests can be confident of quality, with a major focus on local.

“90% of our wine and food will come from within 100 miles of here,” Julius

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says. “The rest is the fish, all taken off the BC coast.”

With the cozy Cobblestone Wine Bar on the lower level, a newly renovated End of the Road Bistro on the main, a dozen gorgeous and oh-so-comfortable rooms and the full-service Aveda Concept Heirloom Spa, Naramata Heritage Inn is the perfect destination for a night or a week, and the Bloomfield’s plans are to make it a year-round operation where locals feel as welcome as tourists.

Family-friendly and brimming with character, the Inn will be partnering with local businesses – from wineries to a kayak company – to create special events with a wide appeal, all with quality at the forefront.

“We won’t be serving fast food here,” Julius says. “There are no deep-fat fryers and we won’t be getting any.”

What customers will find are two eating areas that offer different wine-and-dine experiences. Sangria and Margarita nights, and men’s and women’s kayakand-dine nights will be featured in the End of the Road Bistro. Wine lists include only BC wines.

“What else would we need?” Toni laughs. What else, indeed! ~ Lorne Eckersley

L-R – Chef Thomas Render, Toni & Julius Bloomfield

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP/MANAGEMENT

Families can dine in the New

End Of The Road Bistro Phone: 250.496.6808

Ph.

250.496.6808

3625 1st Street, Naramata, BC In the ♥ of the village

www.naramatainn.com • innkeeper@naramatainn.com www.winetrails.ca

New Owners/Managers Julius & Toni Bloomfield Many people know Julius and Toni from their vast background in real estate and the wine and hospitality industries on the Naramata Bench. Together they are committed to making your stay a truly memorable experience!

Go to naramatainn.com to sign up for our ‘Facebook’ page and follow us on ‘Twitter’

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 29

◆ Naramata

D’Angelo Releases Two New Fortified Wines this Summer

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self-described “simple man with year to year as Sal does his magic in simple tastes”, Sal D’Angelo the winery. knows that making great wine is This summer will see the release of Sal’s all about the farming. Rarely a day goes two new babies—iced wines fortified by when he can’t be found out in his with brandy made from D’Angelo wines! vineyards.

Dolce Vita Bianco, made from Viognier, Sal is a firm believer, too, that his wines and Dolce Vita Rosso, from Tempranillo, shouldn’t be released until he knows are rich and luscious, judging by barrel they are ready to drink at their best. The Proprietor Sal D’Angelo samples.

2011 Viognier, the only D’Angelo white, “They aren’t as sweet as icewine,” Sal is the youngest product on the shelf. Pinot Noir lovers says of the wines he has created for post-dinner sipping. will enjoy the 2009 version with its rich colour, intense The Dolce Vita twins will be sold in 200ml bottles at prices raspberry and black pepper aromas, soft tannins and that guarantee they won’t be around for long! lingering caramel finish.

D’Angelo Estate Winery offers visitors a great experience.

2009 Tempranillo, 2009 Merlot-Cab Sauv (73% Merlot) Complimentary tastings, a picnic area (snacks are available) and 2007 Sette Coppa Riserva unfiltered are all drinking and the popular bed and breakfast, all with gorgeous beautifully right now. The D’Angelo Sette Coppa is a views of Okanagan Lake, encourage visitors to settle in popular Bordeaux blend using the five traditional “noble” and enjoy the Naramata Bench experience. grape varietals. The percentages of each grape vary from ~ Lorne Eckersley

Moraine Introduces a New Wine Club (& it’s free!)

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n a Friday in April Oleg Aristarkhov and winemaker Jacq Kemp tasted from each barrel of Malbec from Moraine Estate Winery’s 2012 harvest.

Jacq’s smile grew wider with each sample, her eyes glistening with approval.

Owner and winemaker have been smiling a lot these days, pleased with the prospect of opening the newlyrenovated tasting room and offering a fine lineup of ten wines from 2011 and 2012 vintages.

“We are also introducing our new Wine Club this spring,” Oleg said.

Free membership in the Moraine Wine Club includes exciting benefits like free tastings of new releases, free shipping of wine in BC and Alberta, free invitations to winery events that will include barrel sampling and vertical tastings, free private vineyard and winery tours and a 15% discount on wine purchases. Oh, and did we mention it’s free!

Back to the wine that Aristarkhov and Kemp have been smiling about.

''Viognier 2012 An outstanding example of why this grape is increasing in popularity, and a hot topic among consumers. ''Rosé 2012 A true patio sipping and dining treat, this Malbec-Merlot blend is a fruit basket of aromas, including raspberry, strawberry and plum with a hint of rhubarb. ''Cliffhanger Red 2012 Merlot and Malbec aged four months in French oak. Match with rib-eye steak, prosciutto and pizza. ''Cliffhanger Red 2011 A blend of Gamay and Shiraz. Spicy with raspberry and blackberry notes.

Serve with barbecue favourites, game birds and spicy Asian cuisine.

Cab Franc-Malbec Bourdeaux blend that cries for Cornish game hen, lamb shanks or chocolate soufflé.

And, finally, Jacq Kemp’s “sticky”-Late Harvest Merlot 2012.

Dark and dried fruit flavours with a hint of cinnamon. Serve with fruit salad, chocolate and cheesecake. ~ Lorne Eckersley

Vineyard View Bed & Breakfast Family owned and operated winery D’Angelo is 100% estate grown

Tasting Room Open Daily 10 - 6 Naramata Bench Estate Wines 250-493-1364 www.dangelowinery.com

ESTATE WINERY

Come get a taste of our view, it will leave you breathless.

Rounding up the wine lineup are 2012 releases of Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Viognier and Red Mountain 2011, a classic Merlot-

Open 10am-6pm Daily May - October

The Aristarkov Family Oleg & Svetlana with daughters Anastasia (far right) and Sophia.

Page 30 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

Find Our Wines At VQA Liquor Stores & Online www.morainewinery.com 1865 Naramata Road, Penticton, BC T: 250 460 1836

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Naramata

Complex Biodiversity + Big Love at La Frenz

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visit with Jeff Martin of La Frenz is a whirlwind tour into the passion of farming and winemaking. Within minutes of arrival I was whisked across

the road to his new Freedom 75 vineyard, sniffing handfuls of dirt.

His enthusiasm for biodiversity is contagious. “Look at these beautiful plants: pink, white, yellow purple,

Okanagan’s Best Varietals 2013 Sauvignon Blanc & Reserve Pinot Noir

high, low. In this way we mimic the natural cycle for health and fertility.”

He explained how he first reshaped the land to optimize air flow and soil moisture, then grazed cattle for a year to establish Jeff Martin bacteria in the soil, and put in both overhead sprinklers to water the cover crop and drip to focus on the vines. Rye grass was planted to anchor the soil and increase organic matter, but by year two indigenous plants of all varieties had now made their appearance.

98% of the new vines have reached the fruiting wire in the first year and look amazingly strong and healthy .

“They can feel the love,” quips Jeff.

He will graze a cow or two, some sheep and move his mobile chicken pen through the vineyard – all to

support a complex biodiversity within the soil to yield the highest quality wines. A process already reflected in the awards garnered by their winery. La Frenz consistently wins Platinum, Double Gold and Gold for their wines. ''Semillon 2012 $22.00 One of my favorites (always hard to pick from the stellar line-up) was this newly released Semillon. Gorgeous summer wine with crisp fruit wrapped around a complex core.

Hints of grapefruit and gooseberry and great mouth feel from the barrel fermented portion. Buy several, some to drink now (you won’t be able to resist) and some to cellar up to five years to see the tremendous aging potential of this variety. ~ Terry Meyer-Stone

A Merger of Good Taste – Poplar Grove Cheese & Clean Slate Wines LA FRENZ WINERY 1525 Randolph Road ph: 250-492-6690

Wineshop Open 10am-5pm Daily

Wine & Cheese Together - Both Located Just Off Naramata Rd., Penticton

poplargrovecheese.ca • Delicious Handcrafted cheeses • Wine & Cheese Tastings • Cheese Making Classes Open 7 Days A Week June to October 11 to 5

Find Us At : 1060 Poplar Grove. Rd. 250-492-4575 www.winetrails.ca

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ine and cheese make an obvious perfect pairing, so when long-time friends Gitta Pedersen of Poplar Grove Cheese and Ross Hackworth of Nichol Vineyard - both seeking a new business partnership – sat down one day to chat, they had a serious AHA! moment.

Gitta’s beautiful cheese is renowned for its high quality and has become a favorite for BC Chefs and restaurants.

A similar relationship stands with the industry-loving Nichol Winery brand created by Ross – both for its high quality as well as for his pioneering Ross Hackworth & Gitta Pedersen effort in launching wine on tap here The property, now housed with a in the valley. Gitta has been farming the beautiful lakeview vineyard around cheese shop and winery, offers a her property (herself!), and decided glamorous, one-of-a-kind view over that it was time to fill the former Naramata onto sparkling Okanagan winery space of Poplar Grove Winery. Lake. Gitta has added picnic tables, It was a perfect fit for Ross who was some with cover, so that her guests can interested in creating a new label and linger over lunch, glass of Clean Slate in one hand, cracker slathered with expanding his portfolio.

This year Clean Slate Winery will be luxurious cheese in the other, and stay making 1200 cases and five wines a while. Poplar Grove cheese maker including their popular blend White Louise Pearson has been offering Slate as well as two rosés made in the amazing cheese making classes in bone-dry Provence style. Hackworth the cheese shop on the vineyard this describes he and his business partner, year. If you are interested in learning Matthew Sherlock, as sharing the - hands on - about the exciting and same vision as well as the same “old delicious world of cheese making school, euro-centric palates”. That email: cheese@poplargrovecheese.ca with the high quality fruit on the or call 250-492-4575. ~ Jennifer Schell property is a recipe for great wines.

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 31

◆ Naramata

Pleasures on the Palate at Hillside Winery & Bistro

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here’s nothing like a tasting room electric with the excitement of new releases – and that’s how I’m greeted on my visit to Hillside Winery and Bistro.

I’m taken with the deep rich colour as the new Syrah is poured into my glass. It’s a fruit forward wine with black raspberry and a little spice on the finish. Charlotte Sherriff, wine shop co-ordinator believes the Syrah “shows off the bench terroir that little bit of minerality, dust after a rainstorm, a forest floor.” Duncan McCowan, president, explains how the heat sink of the Hidden Valley Vineyard creates the depth of flavor.

“It has wonderful tannin structure; it’ll just keep getting better.”

In the Bistro, executive chef, Robert Cordonier recommends pairing the Syrah with his Braised Fraser Valley Pork Cheeks, with maple butter roasted pears, Belgian endive, blue cheese, potato and pecans.

for pump over,” McCowan says.

It spent 72 hours “on skin” before going into stainless vats, resulting in a beautiful finish unaffected by tannins. For McCowan, he loves this wine with mussels and frites, but it

The new release Gewürztraminer makes me think of summer picnics.

Grab a blanket, a bottle of this light aromatic wine, some artisan bread, cheese, fruit and head to your favourite look-out over the lake. Just off-dry with a gingery finish, the new Gewürztraminer also complements spicy foods like Thai or Indian.

Sherriff describes this year’s Rosé as “cotton candy and caramel.”

The blending of 70% Merlot with equal amounts of Gamay Noir, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon produces the layers in this wine. “There was so much fruit last year we didn’t have enough room in our tanks

Forest Green Man’s Lavender Harvest Festival

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ach July a verdant green farm overlooking Naramata transforms, almost magically, into lush purple, a signal that the lavender harvest is about to begin! Owners Karolina BornTschuemperlin and Doug Mathias then recruit staff to help out with the harvest and set about making a sensory delight of culinary and personal care products.

Part art, part handicraft and part the magic of the “Green Man”, the Celtic spirit of nature, the lavender products have qualities that are as easy to detect as they are difficult to describe.

“In general, we sell all of our own products, and we make them all ourselves,” Karolina says. Made-onsite creations include hand-made soaps, essential oils, distilled in a beautiful copper pot still, bath salts, lotion, linen water and sachets, all made with fragrant lavender that grows hip high prior to harvest.

Bulk dried lavender flowers are also available.

For the kitchen, Karolina and Doug make white lavender tea, flavoured sugar, pepper and sea salt blended

pairs wonderfully with Caesar Salad and even cheese.

An unoaked Pinot Gris and the Muscat Ottonel round out the new releases. ~ Sue Harper

Located on the beautiful Naramata Bench, experience exceptional and unique wines, creative, locally-inspired cuisine and striking views.

Wine Shop: Open Daily from 10-6!

Bistro: Open Daily for lunch and dinner!

Contact us to book your corporate meeting, company dinner, family reunion, wedding or any special event!

Phone: 250 493.6274 Bistro Phone: 250 487 1350 Toll Free: 1 888 923 9463 e. info@hillsidewinery.ca

hillsidewinery.ca with Herbs de Provence, jelly, vinegar and even lavender-infused honey.

Other organically grown herbs are turned into products, too, but on July 14 this year all attention turns to the fragrant flower. The annual Lavender Harvest Festival is an invitation to enjoy a day of live music and delicious crêpes, wander among the gardens and visit the tootoo-tempting shop, which abounds with farm products, paintings, table cloths imported from France and authentic silk Kashmir Pashminas.

Want to stay longer? Ask about to the two beautiful guest cabins available to visitors.

Can’t visit? Thank your lucky stars (and the Green Man) for email orders.

Visit www.forestgreenman.com for a price list and order information. ~ Lorne Eckersley

Page 32 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

• Lavender farm and retail shop • Farm stay vacation rentals • Fruits & vegetables in season

www.forestgreenman.com 620 Boothe Rd., Naramata 250 488 8365 or 250.496.4304 www.winetrails.ca

◆ Naramata

Serendipity’s Devil’s Advocate wins John Schreiner’s Top Wine Pick

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ollowing a wine holiday tour to the Okanagan in 2005, Judy Kingston found her own piece of paradise and moved from Ontario to British Columbia to pursue her dreams. She converted a 12-acre

orchard in Naramata into a flourishing vineyard and winery, fittingly named, Serendipity. The winery’s success has been a family affair with the help of her two children. Judy’s daughter Katie serves as the winery’s official

Introducing our Best of Varietal Winners 2012 Sauvignon Blanc & 2009 Private Reserve Estate Cabernet Franc

‘Second in Command’ working as the On August 17th Serendipity is marketing director, Judy’s assistant planning a romantic movie night and proud mama of the winery’s under the stars. Attendees are resident husky dog, Toby. Katie invited to bring their own blanket does all of this while finding the and lay between the vineyard rows time to take a winemaking program while enjoying an outdoor movie. online via UC Davis California. The The screening is free to attend with mother and daughter duo have been the purchase of a bottle of wine, or busy building a fantastic team at $5 per person. There will be glasses Serendipity for the 2013 season. The of wine and snacks available for team includes vineyard manager purchase. ~ Natasha Chudyk Craig McKenzie, June Stewart in the wine shop, winemaker Jason Parkes and proprietor Judy at the Judy Kingston (R) with helm as ‘Jill-Of-All-Trades’. daughter Katie Recently at the 2013 Spring Wine Festival, Serendipity’s Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc were both awarded ‘Best Varietal’.

This April at the Naramata Bench Spring Wine Release in Vancouver, noted wine writer John Schreiner hand picked Serendipity’s Devil’s Advocate as his top choice for red wine, which was an honour as many wineries were in attendance.

On August 3rd, Serendipity will be hosting the 2nd Annual Naughty or Nice Party. Guests are invited to wear their best ‘naughty or nice’ attire to this free event which includes food and wine pairings from 12-4pm.

The Allure of Linen: Clothing Crafted for Comfort

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Shades of Linen offers a never ending collection of clothing that Hours: Mid Oct. through May: caters to the needs and desires of active, comfort-seeking women Tues-Sat 11-6. Closed Sunday, Monday and Closed all of January. who appreciate quality and style.

May through Mid Oct.: Located in the heart of Narmata Monday - Saturday: 11-6 village, come see why women for Sunday and Holidays: 12-4 miles around often make the trip to Naramata just 156 Robinson Ave. to shop at Shades!

250.496.4083

www.ShadesOfLinenClothing.com www.winetrails.ca

don’t want my clothes wearing me; I want to wear my clothes,” says Diane Jensen, who’s owned Shades of Linen Clothing in Naramata since 2001. “This inspiration for my designs is comfort!” Diane creates easy living, stylish linen garments for women and has developed a loyal regional following. She also sells to Wine Festival visitors, especially in the fall.

Diane started creating fashions from linen in the Lower Mainland, before she moved to the Okanagan in 2001. Why linen? “It’s one of the oldest fibres, older even than cotton.

I like breathable fabrics.” Diane creates her own styles, washes and preshrinks her linen, which comes from Italy, and works with a talented group of seamstresses to create her clothing line.

Shades of Linen has always carried garments in black, white,

cream and beige: “They go with anyone’s wardrobe, anything in the closet,” she says. This year, Diane has added items in deep purple, lime, pink and gray. Oh, yes, and then there are pieces with prints.

What’s really popular right now are flowered jean jackets. “They’re a must for every wardrobe, all 100% pre-shrunk linen, all patterned with black buttons.”

Does linen wrinkle? Yes, it does, but that’s part of the organic look. And although the fabric is pre-shrunk, it still stretches. “Just spray it with water, and it will come back to the way it was,” says Diane.

What Diane really likes about her simple, classic linen designs is how versatile they are. “If you have a social occasion to go to, you don’t have to change clothes. Just put on some bling and go!” ~ Dona Sturmanis

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 33

◆ Naramata

A Little Therapy is good for the Wild SouL ocated on the Naramata Bench, Therapy Vineyards and Guesthouse offer one of the most spectacular settings for a wine tasting, and guest house stay. It’s so popular that likely the Guesthouse is booked for the summer, but now is the time to reserve for the Fall Wine Festival and your own therapeutic getaway. Along with their award winning wines, they have a lot of fun with their labels.

Playing on the theme of Freud and friends, you can enjoy the popular “Freudian Sip”, “Super Ego, “Fizzio Therapy” and more in their Rorchach, Freudian and Ego series. One of the most popular series of wines from Therapy is their Artist Series Design. A contest is run each year to choose the artist for these exclusive releases and this year there are two labels by Canadian artist Benjamin Dunstan.

The first Artist Series label by Dunstan is the Riesling-Kerner, just released in May. The second is coming in August. Winemaker Steven Latchford is introducing a brand new Wild Ferment Pinot Noir with all the grapes sourced from the Naramata Bench – something he’s wanted to try for awhile. He’s

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Page 34 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

excited about bringing something new and interesting to this release. Music lovers will want to drop into Therapy on August 17th for a little Music Therapy from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The concert is free and features the Colonel Angus band from Kamloops – a perfect time to try the new Wild Ferment Pinot!

New release just in time for summer: ''2012 Gewürztraminer $24.00

Therapy Vineyards is pretty excited about this release because there was no 2011 Gewürztraminer due to a small animal problem - the bears, birds and deer ate all of the grapes! This year with better fencing, they thwarted the critters and have a fabulous Estate Vineyard Gewürztraminer to enjoy.

Highly aromatic with aromas of rose petal, mango and lychee with hints of lime and fruit salad on the palate, this wine has a great mouth feel and a racy acidity to be enjoyed on its own on the patio, or paired with spicy foods. ~ Terry Meyer-Stone

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Feature

Feel the Love Summer Wine & Food Pairings

by Vancouver’s celebrated Wine Diva, Daenna Van Mulligan

orget about decking the halls; for many of us summer truly is the best time of the year. Long sunny days and warm sultry nights have us dreaming of dining al fresco, it is a time of bountiful produce and simple yet flavorful dishes.

Summer is also the perfect time to experiment with wine and food pairings. Meals are more casual and everyone is relaxed, ergo, no one is going to complain if the pairings aren’t perfection.

Vegetarian dishes are commonplace in the summer; it’s not difficult to get your daily requirements of healthy veggies right now.

Grilling is the other major component of summer dining; it adds depth and intensity to foods.

Don’t panic, have fun with your pairings.

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''Sauvignon Blanc This vibrant white generally offers crisp fruit, citrus and herbal notes. A mixed bean salad with vinaigrette, goat cheese and herb quiche or asparagus all shine with a tangy savvy. Sushi and white fish also have an affinity for this verdant variety. www.winetrails.ca

''Riesling One of the world’s great white grapes, Riesling is an absolute dream with summer dishes. It vibrates with acidity and is often rounded out with a gentle sweetness, which loves to be partnered with spicier dishes. Asian cuisines such as curries or chili-spiked noodle stir-fries are outstanding. It is also great with German potato salad or creamy sauces such as aioli and hollandaise. ''Chardonnay Love it or hate it, oaked Chardonnay can be an epiphany when paired with the right fare. Corn is gastronomic delight with Chardonnay. Sweet and buttery, it is a complimentary marriage, be it corn chowder, corn bread or simply on the cob. You’ll also feel the love with lobster dipped in butter sauce, grilled chicken or smoked cheeses. ''Pinot Noir Fragrant, silky and lighter in body than many red wines, Pinot Noir is your go-to wine for creamy

mushroom pastas and fresh salmon but it’s also fast friends with fattier meats, pork belly or pork tenderloin. ''Cabernet Cabernet Franc is a wonderful red for food.

Spicy grilled sausage, duck or game meats will frolic with it, as will blue cheese. Somewhat darker and more intense, Cabernet Franc’s son, Cabernet Sauvignon will boldly suit grilled steaks, lamb shank or a juicy burger dripping with wild mushrooms and sharp cheddar. ''The great equalizer: Rosé A beautiful rosé - dry or with just a kiss of residual sweetness is arguably the perfect food wine.

From salads or gazpacho, tomato based dishes, gourmet thin-crust pizza, grilled vegetables or ratatouille to salmon, pork or chicken rosé is the ultimate companion. It has the acidity of a white with a structure similar to a light-bodied red. In addition, it’s demands to be chilled and is attractive in the glass. You’ll never go wrong pouring pink.

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 35

◆ Kaleden/Okanagan

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Enjoy an Okanagan summer sunset at Kraze Legz Winery

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s spring turns to summer, Kraze Legz winery is extending its hours and will be opening Tuesday evenings until dusk throughout July and August. This is good news for the campgrounds and resorts in the area as it gives vacationers, as well as locals, some options for evening wine shopping and entertainment. Relax and enjoy an Okanagan sunset with a stellar glass of wine overlooking a spectacular valley vineyard and lake view from the picnic area. Picnic snacks are available at the winery or you can bring your own.

Check out their website for summer events and activities.

You will find listings for events featuring jazz musicians, local talent, 1920’s dance lessons, pizza or rib nights and, of course, the wines will be open for tasting and bottles for sale.

While visiting the winey be sure to sample the Kraze Legz 2012 Pinot Blanc that was recently named best Canadian Pinot Blanc for oysters at the 2013 Canadian Oyster Wine Competition. The wine is full of crisp apple, tropical notes, kiwi, lime

and has a lively acidity and lingering finish. The previous vintage, some still available, also won best in medium white wines in the 2013 Vancouver Magazine Awards.

Kraze Legz is mixing it up a bit and instead of producing the standard dog calendar they are working on a vineyard cat calendar! Look for the calendar this summer; winery visitors will be sure to recognize a cat or two. Partial proceeds of the calendar with go to Critter Aid.

aromas of cherry candy, melon and apple. On the palate there is lots of cranberry, Macintosh apple, strawberry and a refreshing acidity.

Great with seared scallops, grilled prawns or as a summer sipper solo. ~ Cassandra Anderton

''Kraze Legz Speakeasy 2012 Rosé $19.95

Just in time for patio season this Merlot Rosé is delicious with

Proprietors Sue and Gerry Thygesen

Thinking of the Future at Stag’s Hollow

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or Stag’s Hollow in Okanagan Falls, the future is where it’s at.

They are looking ahead in more ways than one, and the excitement about what will be happening soon is evident throughout the winery and the wine shop.

They have purchased and planted a new vineyard site, Shuttleworth Vineyard, which will see a few new additions to the portfolio.

“It’s looking really good,” says winemaker Dwight Sick. “There’s Pinot, Gamay, Dolcetto and Tempranillo.” Experimenting with grapes like Dolcetto that are new to the Okanagan has paid off well

for Stag’s Hollow. Their previous experiments with the Spanish variety Tempranillo has led them to plant Albarino to create an accompanying Spanish-style white. “It’s going to be the next Sauvignon Blanc”, says Sick.

Futures of the Renaissance Merlot 2011 and Pinot Noir 2011 which are released in early September, are available now online or in the wine shop. “Futures” allow you to purchase by the case at a discount prior to release. They are available until August 31or until they sell out. If you can’t wait until September, the current 2010 vintages of both wines are still available and drinking beautifully.

New releases this summer include the 2012 Viognier and 2012 Viognier-Marsanne, which was “barrel fermented in neutral wood and stayed on full lees for 10 months,” explains Sick. Tank samples of these richly-textured wines reveal luscious tropical flavours with long finishes that are sure to develop beautifully once in the bottle. ~ Luke Whittall

Page 36 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

Experience Our Finest Wines

Drop By For A Tasting or Join Our Wine Club Drop by the wineshop this summer and enjoy a tasting of our award winning wines. Wines for tasting each day may include Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Viognier, GVM and our Renaissance Wines.

Find out how you can have a selection of all these fine wines delivered directly to your door 3 times a year!

Open 11am - 5pm daily

• 2237 Sunvalley Way, Okanagan Falls • 250-497-6162

www.winetrails.ca

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.

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

www.ofwa.ca

Blue Mountain Vineyard & Cellar 2385 Allendale Rd., OK Falls 250.497.8244 www.bluemountainwinery.com Kraze Legz Vineyard & Winery 141 Fir Ave., Kaleden 250.497.6957 www.krazelegz.com Liquidity Vineyards 4720 Allendale Rd., OK Falls 778.515.5550 www.liquiditywines.com Meyer Family Vineyards 4287 McLean Creek Rd., OK Falls 250.497.8553 www.MFVwines.com Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery 2320 Oliver Ranch Rd. ,OK Falls 250.497.7945 www.nobleridge.com Painted Rock Estate Winery 400 Smythe Dr., Penticton 250.493.6809 www.paintedrock.ca See Ya Later Ranch 2575 Green Lake Rd., OK Falls 250.497.8267 www.sylranch.com Stag’s Hollow Winery 2237 Sun Valley Way, OK Falls 250.497.6162 www.stagshollowwinery.com Synchromesh Wines 4220 McLean Creek Rd., OK Falls 250.535.1558 www.synchromeshwines.ca Topshelf Winery 236 Linden Ave., Kaleden 778.515.0099 www.topshelfwine.ca Wild Goose Vineyards & Winery 2145 Sun Valley Way, OK Falls 250.497.8919 www.wildgoosewinery.com

Call for wine shop hours & look for our wines in your favorite liquor stores!

2013 Events

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

Fri., July 12 5:00pm - 9:00pm Party in the Park at Kenyon Park, Okanagan Falls Everyone welcome!

Tickets and info: www.ofwa.ca

Fri., Oct. 4 - Mon., Oct. 14 Fall Okanagan Wine Festival info: www.thewinefestivals.ca and www.ofwa.ca

Sat., Nov. 30 & Sun., Dec. 1 11am-4pm Holiday Cheer Open House

Wineries of the Okanagan Falls Winery Association www.winetrails.ca

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 37

◆ Okanagan

Falls

MFV Wines – Locally Grown – Internationally Loved

M

eyer Family Vineyards has one of the best “non-views” of any winery in BC. Visiting the wine shop is like being hugged by a vineyard. But that doesn’t mean that it’s secluded or difficult to find. “We’re literally between Penticton and Oliver,” says Sharon Misselbrook, wine shop manager. “We’re right under Peach Cliff Bluff on McLean Creek Road.” In less than 2 minutes from Highway 97 in Okanagan Falls, you can begin your decent through the vineyards into a serene vineyard experience like no other in BC. It’s no wonder that owners Jak Meyer and Janice Stevens decided to move their family to the house on the property and are now enjoying being more involved in the community.

That appreciation of place is important when you are crafting single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The two main sources for their grapes come from their vineyard surrounding the winery, the McLean Creek vineyard, and the Old Main Road Vineyard located in Naramata. These two locations are the focus of their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay portfolios, which have been garnering accolades and awards. The 2010 Tribute Series Sonja Gaudet Chardonnay, grown exclusively on the Old Main Road vineyard, took home the Top Oaked Chardonnay in Canada, and was the number one BC wine at the 2012 Canadian Wine Awards.

With that many high-profile awards, international clients will surely be taking notice. In fact, British importer Ellis of Richmond has recently added them to their extensive portfolio of international wines. They are the first winery from Canada to be imported by Ellis, a family-run company that has been in business since 1822. For their first shipment, they have selected the 2011 Reimer Pinot Noir, 2011 McLean Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir and the 2010

JAK Meyer with daughter Sydney and winery dog Bruce Meyer

McLean Creek Vineyard Chardonnay. These wines will no doubt make a splash on British restaurant wine lists.

Back in OK Falls, there is lots to look forward to this summer, including new wine releases - Gewürztraminer and Rosé - a new picnic area, and a new festival in September called the “Celebration of BC Pinot Noir” which will bring together a convivium of wineries that focus on Pinot Noir. ~ Luke Whittall

M e y e r Fa M i ly V i n e ya r d s

“Crafting Single Vineyard Wines Of Excellence” Top Oaked Chardonnay in Canada Top BC Wine of 2012 number Three Pinot noir in Canada - Canadian Wine awards 2012

Join us for a

Celebration of BC Pinot Noirs & Salmon Bake - September 1st Catered by Joy Road Catering

Call for Info or buy tickets online

Visit our Tasting room & Wine shop • Open daily 10-5 • 250.497.8553 www.MFVwines.com Become a part of the family ~ Join our wine club Page 38 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Okanagan

Falls

New Digs, New Wines at Wild Goose Vineyards fter a record-breaking bottling session of six weeks straight (2012 was their largest vintage to date), Wild Goose Vineyards (WGV) GM Roland Kruger takes a well-deserved moment to admire the winery’s new building. Completed last summer, this represents the first full season visitors can enjoy the beautiful new premises, complete with a private function room and generously sized deck overlooking the vineyards. Currently WGV is in the process for applying for their lounge endorsement, thus enabling a food element attached to the winery.

The new facilities have enough room for both the winery’s first on-site weddings, as well as their tasting room ‘marketplace’ of winerelated items.

“We used to sell lots of accessories in the beginning, but cut down on it due to lack of space,” says Kruger.

The overall increase in building space, wine production and fun,

A

new products demonstrates the healthy growth of this well-known Okanagan Falls winery. Since 1984, WGV has been family run, with family maintaining a huge role in all aspects of the business.

“We’re still very much a family winery,” explains Kruger. “Along with our tremendous staff, we’re the ones in the tasting room. For us, it’s all about the people. We love people so much. We have people that have been coming here for 20 years. You can win all the medals, but when people keep coming back – it’s the best feeling in the world.”

WGV’s 2012 whites were released mid-spring including their previously sold-out and extremely popular “Autumn Gold” (aromatic, fruitforward blend of Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc and Riesling that just won Best White Blend at the Spring Okanagan Wine Festival) and Pinot Gris. The 2011 reds will be released mid-summer, including a new Bordeaux-style blend called Horizon.

The wine shop is open daily 10 – 5. Visitors are welcome to picnic in the licensed picnic area.

Private tours of the winery are also offered throughout the summer –

interested parties (minimum four people) should contact the winery to book ahead. ~ Sarah Willard

Brothers Roland (L) and Hagen Kruger

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wildgoosewinery.com www.winetrails.ca

@wildgoosewines

10th AVENUE

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WILD GOOSE WINERY

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HWY. #97 To Oliver

2145 Sun Valley Way, Okanagan Falls, B.C. 250-497-8919 info@wildgoosewinery.com

To Penticton

OKANAGAN FALLS

MAPLE STREET

Visit Our Newly Expanded Winery & Tasting Room • Wine tasting accessories and gifts • Licensed lounge serving light fare (coming soon) • Private function room for meetings, dinners, seminars • Tasting room only “release” wines • Weddings, Private wine tours,Library wine sales

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B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 39

The tranquil Similkameen Valley is yours to discover.

CERELIA VINEYARDS & ESTATE WINERY 2235 Ferko Rd. Cawston, BC 250.499.8000 www.Cerelia.ca CLOS DU SOLEIL WINERY 2568 Upper Bench Rd. Keremeos, BC 250.499.2831 www.ClosduSoleil.ca EAU VIVRE WINERY 716 Lowe Dr. Cawston, BC 250.499.2655 www.EauVivreWinery.ca

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Page 40 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

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SEVEN STONES WINERY 1143 Hwy. 3 Cawston, BC 250.499.2144 www.SevenStones.ca

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FORBIDDEN FRUIT WINERY 620 Sumac Rd. Cawston, BC 250.499.2649 www.ForbiddenFruitWines.com

Penticton 30 min.

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Similkameen

Big flavours from small lots at Eau Vivre

H

ands in the dirt, that’s the key to making great wine,” says winemaker Anthony Buchanan from the Eau Vivre Winery and Vineyards.

“I like to be involved directly in every aspect of the process, from spreading compost on the vines in the spring to putting in 15-hour days while punching down the grapes

Recipient of a 2012 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in British Columbia Wines.

Wine shop open daily 10:30-5:30.

Our wines are available at BC VQA and other fine liquor stores and restaurants.

716 Lowe Drive, Cawston, BC

250.499.2655 www.EauVivreWinery.ca

Come Flirt With Us And Find Out Why...

Ranked #1 Winery To Visit

- OkanaganWines.ca, Online Peoples’ Choice A Must Stop Through The World Of Temptation ART GALLERY • RIVERSIDE PICNIC AREA • ORGANIC Open April 1-Oct.31. daily 10am-6pm 620 Sumac Rd., Cawston, B.C. 250.499.2649 forbiddenfruitwines.com www.winetrails.ca

in the tank to get will age well for at least the extraction I’m another year or two. looking for.”

And keep an eye out for Situated in the Eau Vivre’s first reserve town of Cawston, Pinot Noir, which will the fruit-packing likely be released this centre of the fall.

Similkameen If you prefer something Valley, Eau Vivre with more body and has been in operdeeper fruit aromas, Eau Vivre also produces ation only since a 100% Similkameen 2009. Production Cabernet Franc, a is limited to robust Malbec, and a about 1,200 silky Bordeaux blend cases per year. called Buddhaful.

That suits owners Anthony Buchanan Their white wines Dale Wright and Jeraldine Estin just fine, as their include a well-balanced, buttery intention was always to produce Chardonnay, a lush Gewürztraminer, small lots of well-crafted wines. and a refreshing Riesling. All are “Wines that people love to savour,” well priced.

Eau Vivre recently introduced as Buchanan says.

Last year Eau Vivre caught the its Cinq Blanc, the perfect patio attention of the industry when sipper. A delicious blend of its sold-out 2009 Pinot Noir won Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, the Lieutenant-Governor’s Award Muscat, Chardonnay and Riesling, for Excellence in BC Wines. The this is summer in a bottle. Available 2008 bottling, which you can still only at the Eau Vivre tasting room, buy, exhibits the earthiness and Cinq Blanc alone will make your trip austerity you expect from the fin- worthwhile. ~ Barry Potyondi est Burgundies. Well-structured, it

Forbidden Fruit offers temptation in a bottle

W

Playful names ild horses like Plumiscuous, drinking at Impearfection and the river’s edge. Row upon maniCrushed Innocence — cured row of organic often dreamt up in the apples, pears, peaches, hot tub after a hard day’s apricots, cherries and work — mask a very serigrapes maturing on ous dedication to the the gentle hillsides. vintner’s craft. The off-dry An inviting picnic area Pearsuasion, for examoverlooking the treed Steve Venables ple, is slightly smoky valley bottom. An intibeneath its subtle pear mate sales shop with handcrafted and vanilla top notes. Speachless, jewellery and original art. And rack the winery’s newly released “mystery after rack of sophisticated wines wine,” is an extraordinary confection made with a master’s touch. of lingering white peach and pasThis is Forbidden Fruit Winery, the sionfruit flavours. most recent component of a pristine The Earth Series, which supports sev52-hectare orchard, vineyard and eral conservation causes, employs nature preserve now celebrating 36 only grapes — what Steve calls “the years of sustainable development. other fruit.” For something truly Owners Steve Venables and Kim different, try the Sauvidal, a crisp, Brind’Amour have dedicated their intriguing blend of Sauvignon Blanc lives to responsible use of the land. and Vidal.

Their environmental stewardship and Stop by for wine tastings and off-sale dedication to craft has been reward- fruit sales all summer long. Like the ed with hundreds of awards and flavours of these gorgeous wines, the honour of being voted the best you’ll find yourself lingering. winery to visit in the Interior. ~ Barry Potyondi B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 41

◆ Similkameen

Organic food and wine from a Similkameen heritage farm

S

trong on family values, sustainable production and pride of place, Rustic Roots Winery and Harker’s Organics provide a relaxing oasis in the heart of Cawston.

The Harker (neé Manery) family put its roots down in the Similkameen Valley more than 125 years ago.

Today, 4th generation Bruce and Kathy Harker work alongside the 5th generation in operating the multi-faceted business.

Visit the finest restaurants in the Okanagan or the Similkameen, and you are sure to spot Harker’s Organics on the menu. Top chefs swear by them.

At Rustic Roots Winery, Sara Harker produces an eclectic portfolio based solely on Certified Organic fruit from the Similkameen Valley.

This successful venture is one reason why Sara and her husband

Troy are BC’s Outstanding Young Farmers for 2013.

These wines are complex on the palate with a dry or off-dry finish. This allows them to pair with everything from appetizers to dessert.

Start your meal off right with a flute of the 2011 Pippin, a dry aromatic sparkling wine of green apples and sweet nectarines. This is the perfect complement to a plate of tangy oysters. Got chocolate for dessert? Enjoy it even more with a glass of the always popular Santa Rosa Plum, which is bursting with coffee and cocoa notes.

With its casual bistro and newly licensed picnic area, Rustic Roots Winery and Harker’s Organics is one wine, food and agri-tourism destination you won’t want to miss! ~ Barry Potyondi

Clos du Soleil: where Bordeaux meets the Similkameen

A

t Clos du Soleil, passion, patience and perfectionism blend seamlessly to yield a truly delightful portfolio of Bordeaux-style wines.

Founding partner Spencer Massie says the goal of the fiveyear-old winery is to embrace the great traditions of Bordeaux while expressing the very best qualities of the Similkameen terroir. Michael Clark, Jean-Felix Boulais and Managing Director Spencer Massie Michael Clark adds, balanced Graves-like Capella, and “our wines are elegantly structured with good acidity. This the deep, honeycomb perfection makes them food-friendly and of their Saturn, a late-harvest gives them great aging potential.” Sauvignon Blanc. Regrettably, the Production at Clos du Soleil has Saturn is sold out. ramped up slowly, in step with Clos du Soleil also bottles a the lessons learned each season Grower’s Series to honour from the bio-dynamically farmed exceptional local grape growing. vineyard. The result is one stellar This summer’s releases are a Chegwin & Baessler Pinot Blanc release after another.

Their well-structured $25.00 and a Makepeace Merlot.

Célestiale, for example, is a If you aren’t able to visit the gloriously plummy mix of the five charming tasting room in the customary Bordeaux red grapes vineyard just outside Keremeos, that delights the nose, strokes the then consider joining Soleil 160, palate and lingers on the senses. Clos du Soleil’s wine club. It may Everyone should have a case in be your best bet for assured access to these exquisite, limited their cellar.

Bordeaux’s white traditions can release wines. ~ Barry Potyondi be sampled in the beautifully

Organic Farming..Creative Winemaking..Award Winning Results

Harker’s Organics & Rustic Roots Winery 2238 Hwy 3, Cawston B.C 250.499.2751

www.rusticrootswinery.com www.harkersorganics.com

Awarded 2013 BC Outstanding Young Farmers Page 42 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • Summer 2013

Tasting Room Hrs: Thurs. - Mon. 10AM to 5PM. 2568 Upper Bench Rd., Keremeos, BC or Call 1-250-499-9340 to book an appointment.

www.closdusoleil.ca

@Closdusoleil www.winetrails.ca

◆ Similkameen

Exceptional single vineyard wines from Orofino

Liquid treasures from the new Seven Stones vault

et’s call it wine crowdsourcing.

Orofino Vineyards has only six acres of vines, pruned hard to optimize quality, yet produces 5,200 cases of extraordinary wine per year. Even high-yielding vineyards couldn’t get so many bottles from so few acres.

It works at Orofino because John and Virginia Weber embody the spirit of agricultural co-operation that has prevailed in the Similkameen Valley for a century.

By virtue of strong relationships with neighbouring grape-growers, they have access to a larger virtual vineyard that lets them expand production, showcase the local terroir, and win one award after another.

The grapes in their opulent Riesling, for example, are from three nearby vineyards. Fermented with several yeast strains to add complexity, this wine is a luscious, fruit-forward mouthful with a deep vein of minerality. Think fine Mosel.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re enjoying their earthy, impeccably made Pinot Noir, their peppery, Gold Medal winning Syrah or their Prosecco-thumping Moscato Frizzante, you’ll swear you can taste Europe in the glass.

If you expect to be in the Similkameen Valley on August 10th, book now for Orofino’s popular 1.6 Mile Dinner. You’ll enjoy a

f you’re unfamiliar with the glorious wines of Seven Stones, you owe it to yourself to get acquainted. This is one relationship you’ll never regret.

Winemaker George Hanson has a knack for producing wines that are true expressions of their varietals and the hot, dry summers of the Similkameen Valley. Almost everything he bottles has won accolades and medals from wine critics everywhere.

On a hot day, you can’t beat a glass of the crisp 2011 Pinot Rosé beneath the shade of his new gazebo high above the Similkameen River. Made in the restrained style of a traditional Provençal rosé, this patio sipper oozes strawberries with a hint of citrus and ends satisfyingly with a long, dry finish.

The gazebo sits atop a new 3,000-square-foot underground cave of structural steel and 1.5 million pounds of concrete.

With a constant temperature of 14.5°C, it is perfect for wine storage and aging. There is even a dining facility where you’ll soon be able to enjoy special winemaker dinners.

Like a secure vault for precious objects, the cave holds the real

L

Virginia Weber

sumptuous meal of produce from within a 1.6 mile radius paired with the winery’s finest bottles. There are only 115 patio seats available, so act quickly.

And if you can’t make that spectacular event, just pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the shade of the winery’s almond trees. You’ll always feel welcome at Orofino.

ST ~ Barry Potyondi

I

George Hanson

glories of Hanson’s winemaking — his big reds. These range from an elegant Pinot Noir to The Legend, a rich and rewarding Bordeaux blend. Smack-dab in the ST middle sits the 2008 Meritage, a bold, juicy mix of raspberries and chocolate.

Hanson’s reds typically have the backbone to age for years, but there’s no way you’ll be able to wait that long. ~ Barry Potyondi

New Releases Available MAY 1 !

New Releases Available MAY 1 !

Discover our family owned and operated boutique winery 2152 barcelo road Discover our family owned and operatedinboutique winery Similkameen the gorgeous Valley. cawston, bc v0x 1c2 in the gorgeous Similkameen Valley.

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orofinovineyards.com

Tour Our New Caves!

Introducing the Orofino Collector’s Club.

Visit us for all of the details!

2152 Barcelo road, cawston, Bc t: 250.499.0068 www . orofinovineyards . com www.winetrails.ca

Open daily from 10:30 - 5:30

Located at 1143 Highway 3, Cawston; a beautiful scenic 17 minutes west of Osoyoos and 7 minutes east of Cawston.

250.499.2144 • www.SevenStones.ca B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 43

◆ Oliver

Perfectly placed to make fine wine and good friends.

Tour Tinhorn Creek’s Earth Friendly Vineyards

T

he summer is here and Tinhorn Creek is ready with an amazing lineup of concerts, movies, and wines to help you get the most out of the Okanagan in the summer.

The Concert Series in the amphitheatre continues with Jackie Treehorn on Saturday, June 22nd, The Matinee return on Saturday, July 27th, and Five Alarm Funk on Saturday, August 24th. The Grand Finale Concert for 2013 will feature legendary roots-rockers Blackie and the Rodeo Kings on Saturday, September 7th.

New this year in July and August will be movie nights in the amphitheatre.

Crush Club members voted online from a list of movies and the one that they want first is “Grease”, which will be showing on Friday, July 19th. “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark” will be showing on Friday, Aug 9th. Both will start at dusk (approximately 9:30pm for Grease) and will cost $15 at the door (under 19 are $10 and under 6 are free).

Tinhorn’s self-guided tours of the winery and the demonstration vineyard have already proven to be a great way to both learn and

stretch when traveling through wine country. This year, the new “Out and Back Tour” will take visitors through Tinhorn Creek’s real vineyards. It takes 20-40 minutes and is remarkably flat considering the sloped terrain. “The view is pretty awesome,” says executive director Sandra Oldfield. “There’s lots of bluebirds.” But it’s more than just great scenery. The tour takes you to see their Bokashi compost area, a major component of Tinhorn’s commitment to being a sustainable and environmentally conscious business. This area receives most of the waste from the winery, vineyard, and restaurant operations. “It’s a whole area that is pretty crucial to our sustainability program and I really wanted to put it on a tour so that people are able to see it.”

New releases this summer include the 2012 Pinot Gris ($18.99), a vibrantly fruity and refreshing style, and the 2012 Gewürztraminer ($18.49), which has beautiful candied perfume on the nose and is extremely silky on the palate. Both wines are available this summer and will make perfect pairings for those hot summer nights. ~ Luke Whittall

Upcoming Events June 22 - Jackie Treehorn Concert July 19 - Movie Night July 27 - The Matinee Concert August 9 - Movie Night August 24 - Five Alarm Funk Concert Sept 7 - Blackie & the Rodeo Kings

tinhorn.com R E S TAU R A N T

Page 44 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Oliver

RY

NE

E Corner Stone wins International WIN W Wine Awards

T

Hand crafted single vineyard wines.

Come Savour the Journey.

www.riverstonesstatewinery.ca e/mail: riverstone@eastlink.ca 7148-378th Ave. (Buchanan Dr.), Oliver, BC Ph: 250 498-7798

ed and Lorraine Kane love the Okanagan Valley and their winery, River Stone, reflects just that. The couple moved with their family in 2002 to the Okanagan from Alberta, following Ted’s long time passion for British Columbia’s wine. Over a decade in the wine business later they are proud the co-owners and wine tasters (respectively) of River Stone Estate Winery in Oliver.

Their hand tended vineyard and winery, are situated on the edge of Okanagan River boasts a plethora of grape varietals including Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Gris and Cabernet Franc to name a few. The property’s grapes reflect the unique terroir of the area’s rock and gravel soil. River Stone’s wines have been sweeping up wine awards both nationally and internationally. In particular, their signature Bordeaux blend Corner Stone notably received a Gold Medal at the Intervine International Wine Awards and a Silver Medal from Wine Access

Ted & Lorraine with Baker Bob Potkins (C)

and the Savour North West wine awards in Washington state.

Wine Access also awarded their Cabernet Franc Gold in the 2012 awards.

The wine shop at River Stone is filled with locally made artisan treasures such as Okanagan landscape paintings and handcrafted glass jewellery. Visitors to the wine shop can enjoy a small loaf of freshly baked bread made on site daily by wine shop assistant Bob Potkins.

For $8.99 enjoy a tasting plate of four cheeses, olives, grapes and, of course, Bob’s fresh baked bread and a glass of River Stone wine while sitting outside and taking in the beauty of the winery. ~ Natasha Chudyk

Desert Hills introduces Helen & opens new outdoor patio

A

Two Time recipienT of The LieuTenanT Governor’s award for exceLLence in winemakinG & winner of canada’s besT red.

Wine Shop Open April – Oct., 10am – 5:30 pm, 7 days/wk Desert Hills Estate Winery | 4078 Black Sage Road, Oliver, BC | Phone: 250-498-6664 | www.deserthills.ca www.winetrails.ca

s work continues in the different vineyards of Desert Hills Estate Winery so too does work occur in the wine shop itself. New this year will be an outdoor patio off of the wine shop that will accommodate 30 to 36 people. Desert Hills’ wines will be available for purchase by the glass or bottle to enjoy on the patio with beautiful mountain and valley vistas.

Randy Toor enthusiastically announced that their new Rosé named “Helen” will be released in time for the Spring Wine Festival.

Asking where the name came from, he said that when the winemaker was making this wine it was so beautiful in color and taste that it reminded him of the beauty goddess, Helen of Troy. Only 200 cases were made.

Desert Hills is also releasing a new port style wine “The Ambassador”.

Desert Hills enjoys rave reviews and medals: The 2008 Meritage received International Double Gold, the 2011 Cactus Series [whites] Silver, and many other medals too numerous to mention.

The popular Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Gamay are comprised of very small lots and these wines go to the Wine Club members first. The Zinfandel has already sold out. The first shipment for the Wine Club was shipped mid April so they encourage everyone to join the Wine Club so as not to be disappointed.

2012, while it started out wet, dreary and not encouraging, turned out to be a banner year. Desert Hills Winery is excited about their new vintages being released this year and they promise not to disappoint! New releases are the Mirage, Malbec, Merlot, Gamay and Cabernet Sauvignon. ~ Dee Newman

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 45

◆ Feature

Creative Okanagan Chefs

Putting the Personal Touch on Their Professions

Chef Chris Van Hooydonk

ong gone is the notion of a chef as a person in whites who toils in a hidden restaurant kitchen cooking people’s meals. With the advent of TV food programs and the surge of interest in all things food – verging on cult status – many of our chefs today are personalities, artists; you might even say rock stars of culinaria. We await their next creative moves. What are they going to do and how are they going to do it? Here are three Okanagan chefs who love to keep us surprised.

L

Chef to You

Chris Van Hooydonk is celebrity Okanagan chef who has decided to branch out on his own.

Formerly executive chef at The Sonora Room Restaurant at Burrowing Estate Winery in Oliver, Chris has started Artisan Culinary Concepts in January, which he describes as “a truly unique, guest-driven Okanagan culinary experience. The idea is really quite simple-- a food lover’s dream: the ability to hire a personal chef for an evening, either for high end catering purposes, business or personal, interactive or not.”

That’s just the beginning of what Artisan Culinary Concepts can offer. With 17 years of experience in the industry, Chris teaches private and public cooking classes in people’s homes, businesses, in a vineyard, in his own personal orchard or kitchen. He’ll also be doing restaurant consulting and mentoring and teaching owners and chefs how to operate a seasonal, high-end restaurant in a seasonal environment. “And finally, I will continue to sell and market my handcrafted preserving and product line. Under the name Backyard Farm, the majority of products use ingredients from my orchard and gardens, and if not, then from like-minded, quality farmers and producers,” says Chris.

Artisan Culinary Concepts is a true vision of everything Chris is passionate about--his home, family, orchard, career and mentorship, all paired with his unadulterated love of everything food. “Truly what I have started is what I consider a chef’s dream--having a FoodSafe, commercial kitchen in my home, surrounded by our gardens and 60 fruit trees.”

Visit: artisanculinaryconcepts.com Page 46 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

www.winetrails.ca

Field to Plate

Chef Liam McNulty is the culinary rock star at The Patio at Nk’Mip Cellars at Spirit Ridge in Osoyoos. He’s a natural chef who really respects and appreciates food. “It affects our health in such drastic ways, yet most people will put more thought into what they’re going to wear that day and not give any attention to the daily dose of energy, our food. Seasonal, local, whole foods, I call them--that’s my philosophy.”

Self-taught Liam is from Alberta where he worked at Culina’s, Norman’s Bistro and Bistro Praha in Edmonton before moving out to BC about six years ago to help found Passa Tempo at Spirit Ridge in Osoyoos. He ran the kitchens at Bibo in Osoyoos and its sister bistro in Nelson before heading up The Patio at Nk’Mip. Liam creates The Patio menu from local and seasonal foods. “I know all the farmers that supply our restaurant. I am lucky enough to go to the fields, pick tomatoes and herbs. All of our Chef Liam McNulty proteins and fish come from BC, our pork and lamb from the Fraser Valley.

Our beef is humanly raised in Oliver. The chickens we get from Cawston have a life that would make Bill Gates jealous, and you can taste that.”

Highlights to expect at The Patio? Anticipate Quadra Island mussels prepared with local garlic scapes and Nk’Mip Pinot Blanc, beef brisket from Oliver that will be smoked daily. “And of course, our local Sockeye salmon caught through the Okanagan Nation Alliance, served with butter-braised local Swiss chard, fingerling potato confit, and almond Romesco.

Visit: nkmipcellars.com

Chef Paul Cecconi with wife Holly

“many of our chefs today are personalities, artists; you might even say rock stars of culinaria” Farm to Bowl

Paul Cecconi is very well known to Okanagan foodies as the long-time executive chef at The Harvest Golf Club in Kelowna and executive chef at Local Lounge • Grille in Summerland. Now the chef, who also worked for the Four Seasons Hotel in both Vancouver and Australia, is doing what he calls the next challenge in his career – opening Brodo Kitchen & Catering in Penticton. “Operating my own business excites me thoroughly,” he says.

Paul is partnering with his wife Holly in Brodo (broth in Italian) and that’s part of the point-- to mix business with family...and that also means children! He’s also undertaking his new enterprise to incorporate his food philosophy which is really simple, even after all his years as an acclaimed, award-winning chef.

“Keep it uncomplicated and deliver fresh food with lots of flavor!!” says Paul.

The chef calls Brodo “an upscale farm to bowl experience...offering six soups/ bowls, four artisan sandwiches, a few locally-sourced salads and a local juice program. There will be a grab ‘n go cooler offering chilled soups, stocks, condiments to take home, along with our own preserving line following the harvest.” Soups and bowls may include rich minestrone with potato gnocci and pancetta, braised bison chili and cornbread and smoked oyster-squash chowder. You might also find warm corned beef and the “best grilled cheese” on the sandwich menu.

“This will be my first experience executing counter service,” says Paul. “I am excited for this as it will allow me to engage my guests as they enter Brodo and be able to show my passion for my offerings.” Visit: tastebrodo.com ~ Dona Sturmanis

www.winetrails.ca

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 47

◆ Oliver

Experience Summer Patio Passion at Oliver Twist Gina (centre) with Judy, Sherry and

O

liver Twist Estate Winery is geared up and ready to go for the summer wine season. The wine shop recently had a makeover, giving it a desert theme to reflect their hot south Okanagan surroundings with a sunny, burnt orange and rusty colour scheme. Local artists’ work is displayed and is for sale in the wine shop featuring paintings, pottery and more. Adding to the new ambiance of the winery is friendly English Bull dog Chunk, whose name could not be more fitting.

The welcoming wine shop ladies Gina, Judy and Sherry are ready for a fun summer season of tastings and good times. Notably featured on the tasting list is the winery’s unique wine called Patio Passion, which is a actually a white Merlot – that’s right, a white Merlot!

Patio Passion is a spicy Merlot with bright fruit aromas of raspberry jam, canned cherries and caramel with a finish of black currant vanilla, strawberry and a touch of pepper which pairs perfectly with bbq food and is great for summer patio season. From July 3-14, Patio Passion is featured and can be enjoyed on the winery’s

fabulous Chunk, the winery dog.

sunny outdoor patio for $5 a glass. There will be summer wine specials, music and a draw for a beautiful gift basket full of Oliver Twist’s favourite summer sippers.

The shop also has a deli fridge featuring various charcuterie and cheese plates that can be enjoyed on the patio or guests are welcome to bring their own picnic baskets.

Trevor Mitchell and his hardworking crew have been busy in the vineyard tending to the grapes. The 2013 crush plan is coming along, with an exciting possibility of new wines. ~ Natasha Chudyk

NEWSES A RELE

2012 Oliver’s Choice & 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon

Open Year Round! Daily: 10am - 5:30pm

Burrowing Owl welcomes new Executive Chef to the Sonora Room

I

t is always an impressive view from the Sonora Room at Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, even when the weather is unpleasant. Spring and summer would not seem right without enjoying a lunch or dinner inside by the fireplace or out on the deck, overlooking the vineyards and valley vistas. Executive chef Brock Bowes has just taken the helm at The Sonora Room and explained the many things he is planning along with his culinary team for the upcoming tourist season.

While the restaurant caters to discerning guests for dinner, there will be unique changes to the lunch menu that will feature casual cuisine that will appeal to tourists and locals alike. During the busy tourist season there will be menu items like a sandwich and seasonal

salad made with local ingredients, to allow those patrons more time for wine touring or for those who are on a tight schedule.

Chef Bowes and his team will source fresh, seasonal ingredients from local producers in the area.

They are proud to promote local farmers, meat producers and organic farmers and will accommodate guests with food allergies, vegans, vegetarians and gluten-free diets.

Chef and members of his team collaborate and support local events in the South Okanagan, i.e.: The Pig-Out at Covert Farms and OOOyster Festival at Walnut Beach Resort. He also plans to bring in culinary students to give them the opportunity to plan, create and execute menus. ~ Dee Newman

Page 48 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

www.winetrails.ca

◆ Oliver

Church & State Wines - The beautiful one ith a goal of having Church & State Wines listed in the top 3 wineries in BC, proprietor Kim Pullen set about acquiring vineyard land in the prime growing regions of the South Okanagan Valley. Growing only the best stock, his wines have twice been named “Red Wine of the Year in Canada” starting with the 2006 vintage of Quintessential in 2009, and then again in 2011 with the 2009 Coyote Bowl Syrah. In 2012, Kim met his goal being named #3 Winery in BC by Wine Access Magazine.

Starting with the acquisition of Rattlesnake Ridge, a 15-acre plot on the Golden Mile, Kim planted Merlot, Viognier and eventually Malbec. His next purchase was the Coyote Bowl Vineyard. As Kim walked the property, he noticed a coyote skirting the bottom of the bowl and the name became synonymous.

Coyote Bowl was planted with the highest quality vines, suitable for his top tier Bordeaux blend, Quintessential.

The third vineyard property is called Bella, the Beautiful One. This vineyard was planted with Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier to produce

W

“TreBella”, their elegant Rhone blend. In 2012, the property next door to Bella was purchased. The securing of “Second Chapter” would establish Church & State’s mark along the Black Sage Bench and solidify the vineyard portfolio.

In summer 2009, construction began on the new winery in the Coyote Bowl Vineyard. Built to exclusively produce and showcase Church & State’s super-premium wines, Coyote Bowl blends contemporary West Coast architecture with a unique sense of place, where guests can intimately experience the art of winemaking and viticulture in a gorgeous setting.

The now-famous outdoor Tasting Bar will open May long weekend where one can share a tasting (with four one-ounce pours, the tasting is more of a wine journey), listen to music and perhaps play bocce on the lawn overlooking the bowl. Taste the new Church & State releases consisting of 2011 Chardonnay, 2012 Viognier, 2012 Cuvee Blanc, 2009 Meritage and 2009 Quintessential. ~ Dee Newman

New marketing manager Trish Lynn at the C&S outdoor tasting bar.

“The two best wine bar experiences in the south Okanagan” - Anthony Gismondi

Best Red Wine of the Year - 2011 Wine Access Canadian Wine Awards

Best Red Wine of the Year - 2009 All-Canadian Wine Championships

3rd Best Red Wine of the Year - 2012 Wine Access Canadian Wine Awards

Best Chardonnay - 2010 San Francisco International Wine Competition

Best Syrah - 2009 International Wine & Spirit Competition (UK)

Over 50 International Gold Medals

Heaven has never been so close 4516 Ryegrass Road, (Black Sage Bench) Oliver 250-498-2700

Bring in this ad and be entered to win a case of Church & State Wines open every day 11am-6pm • churchandstatewines.com www.winetrails.ca

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 49

◆ Oliver

Silver Sage where summer gardens abound

S

pring was definitely in the air approaching the beautiful grounds of Silver Sage Winery. Bursts of color were evident as I found owner/ winemaker, Anna Manola, getting ready to plant more spring flowers.

While 2012 started out dubious, it gave way to a fall that never ended, resulting in one of the most outstanding vintages Anna could remember. The winter was also kind, with little to no damage in the vineyards.

During 2012 the onsite B&B was very successful with many new and repeat guests staying for

three days to a full week. Silver Sage has made some lasting friendships with guests and look forward to their return visits. Some come to celebrate an occasion while others to relax and enjoy the

fantastic wine experience at Silver Sage Winery.

The 2013 new releases for Spring Wine Festival and summer are: 2012 Gewürztraminer, 2012 Pinot Blanc, 2012 Pinot Blanc Dessert Wine, 2012 The Pearle, 2012 Flame, 2012 Sunset [very little left], 2011 Merlot [very promising with blackberry/black currant, low tannins and very soft], 2011 Pinot Noir “the Passion”.

Silver Sage Winery invites tourists, guests and locals to visit and enjoy a unique tasting journey – something you will want to do this spring/summer season. ~ Dee Newman

Gehringer Brothers: Pinot Perfect

O

n visiting Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, winemaker Walter Gehringer focused on the Pinots: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc. These vines share the same family name and in essence come from the same vine. In autumn one can find all three varieties hanging from one vine, confirming this relationship.

One can even find individual Pinot Blanc berries within a Pinot Gris bunch. If you keep walking the vineyard rows, you may also be so lucky as to find a berry with two distinct colored sections; one blanc (white) and one gris (gray).

Look for this in the picture of their ad. This is attributed to the

chimera genetic makeup unique to the Pinot family.

The 2011 Pinot Noir is lighter in style, fruit driven, revealing cherry and blackberry flavors. It’s soft tannins make it a very versatile wine, pairing with most of your summer foods.

The 2012 Pinot Gris is crisp, fruity and refreshing, making it a great summer sipping wine, as well pairing nicely with fish.

The 2012 Pinot Blanc is smooth, full in the mouth/palate and has a rich texture.

Layers of fruit are revealed on the palate. A food-friendly wine.

Auxerrois and Chardonnay are similar in wine style with Pinot Blanc, but are definitely different and distinct varieties.

They are not part of the Pinot family.

Walter indicated that every year more effort in the vineyard is required to attain optimal maturity. The last few seasons have been quite varied. The many medals that are in view in the winery speak to this dedication.

The Pinots are all Private Reserves and have received the utmost care in all facets of winemaking, from viticulture through to vinification. Developed for the discerning

Page 50 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

wine drinker, these wines have undergone unique fermentation methods to best enhance the natural characteristics of each variety. Some of these wines are in small lots, so visit Gehringer Brothers soon. ~ Dee Newman

Experience a tasting at one of the valley’s most enjoyable wineries.

Turn east off Highway 97 south of Oliver at Road 9, cross the Okanagan River along 87th Street and look for our entrance.

WINE SHOP HOURS

Open Thurs - Mon. 11am-5pm tel. 250-498-0310 www.silversagewinery.com

Open Daily 9am-5:30 pm www.winetrails.ca

◆ Oliver

2009 Syrah won “Best Red Wine”

- Wine Access All CanadianWine Awards 2012 & 2012 BC Wine Awards

SOUTH OKANAGAN

WINE TOURS

The Many Hidden Gems of Quinta Ferreira

T

his will be the 6th year that Quinta Ferreira has been selling their wines from their beautiful wine shop with a commanding view of the town of Oliver and Macintyre Bluff. A lot of wines have won a lot of awards in those 6 years and it’s unlikely to stop this year with their new releases.

These new releases include the 2009 Merlot and 2011 Viognier, both highly acclaimed and wildly popular since their debut. The Viognier in particular has attracted attention as one of the best examples in the valley of this popular but still rare variety.

As well, the Ferreira’s will be releasing the 2010 Malbec and the extremely rare Zinfandel from 2009, of which only 25 cases are produced annually making it a true hidden gem in BC wine. To get your hands on a bottle of south Okanagan Zin, you’ll need to visit the wine shop and probably the sooner, the better.

A new gem in the collection this year will be a Late Harvest Cabernet Franc from 2011. Although not as rare a grape variety as the Zinfandel, it is

not very common to see this dark grape dressed up for dessert. If you did not get to try the port-style wine, Porta D’Ouro 2009, there may still be some available in early summer.

Though different in style, both wines will make excellent partners for afterdinner sweets.

Quinta Ferreira will be hosting their 2nd Annual Paella event on Sunday, Advertorial July 14th from 11:30 to 4pm. This is a great outdoor event featuring paella prepared by Chef Jeff Van Geest, wine by the glass, and live music from The Gala Vanters, it promises to be an amazing wine country experience.

Tickets are available at the wine shop and at the door. ~ Luke Whittall

Tour the Okanagan in Style with Grape Escapes 2012 New Business of the Year Award 2012 Best of the Okanagan Readers’ Choice Award 2012 Trip Advisor #1 Ranking

TGIFermented Friday’s from 5pm-7pm

www.GrapeEscapes.ca

1.877.362.3382 Driving you to drink... legally... and loving it! www.winetrails.ca

Grape Escapes Naramata Bench Tour - most popular (similar tours also available for Summerland & OK Falls): Located near Penticton, the wineries are situated above sweeping sand cliffs that rise from Okanagan Lake, with vineyards that gently slope up to the mountains behind, hence the name “The Naramata Bench.” A hundred years ago this was a major fruit growing area and over the years it has become home to world class viticulturists growing the grapes that are the basis for the renown of Naramata Bench wines. Each winery on The Bench has their own specialties and philosophies of wine-making, but what they all share is a commitment to quality in their winemaking, and a belief that authentic wine experiences should be offered in a friendly and relaxed manner. The

beautiful rural surroundings and wide variety of wineries makes the Naramata Bench a perfect wine tour destination.

Simply Sipping Discovery Experience Our Simply Sipping Discovery Experiences are designed to help you discover a variety of new wines (or old favourites) to savor, enjoy and share with friends. Whether you are a serious connoisseur looking to add wines to your collection or a rookie wine enthusiast looking to simply enjoy, learn, and experience the tasting adventure while discovering new wines, this tour will take you to a diverse selection of award-winning wineries accompanied by our wineindustry certified guide.

Call or visit their website to view all of the tours available.

Enjoy your tour and say hi to Dino Vino for us!

B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 51

◆ Feature

Summer Cocktails Apricot Brandy Crusta

I know summer is around the corner when the fruit trees in my garden burst into bloom. First is the apricot, then the cherry, plum and finally the two apple trees. Tasting a fresh, ripe apricot from the tree with its flesh still warm from the morning sun is one of the ultimate Okanagan experiences. My single apricot tree provides pounds and pounds of luscious fruit that gets canned, jammed and preserved by my family and I. What we cannot use goes to our kitchen at RauDZ Regional Table. Here, our culinary team processes them into ice creams, sorbets, the most delectable desserts and purees for our innovative and award winning cocktail program.

One of my favorite apricot cocktails is the Apricot Brandy Crusta. The Crusta is an important “historical” cocktail. It is the forefather to the Sidecar as well as the Margarita! First created in 1852 by Joseph Santina at the ‘Jewel of the South’ in New Orleans, the Brandy Crusta was named for its use of a

sugared rim or “crust” on the glass. It originally called for simple syrup as an ingredient, but over the years Maraschino liqueur has been substituted in its place. Apricot puree replaces the Maraschino in the Apricot Brandy Crusta recipe that follows. Tart and well balanced, the Apricot Crusta is high on my list of summer cocktails.

Audrey Surrao…In her Apricot tree

Ingredients: - 1.5 oz Cognac - .5 oz Cointreau - 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice - 2 oz Fresh Apricot Puree Directions: Rim a ‘Coupe’**glass with vanilla sugar.

Put all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

Shake and double strain into glass. ** The ‘Coupe’ glass reputedly came into fashion in the 1930’s where it was the glass of choice to serve champagne. I prefer the flute for my bubble, but I love the elegance of the Coupe glass for cocktails.

Enjoy!

Audrey Surrao Co-owner RauDZ Regional Table

Bella French 75 Directions: In a shaker over ice add - 1 oz local gin - 1/2 oz simple syrup - 1/2 oz freshly squeezed meyer lemon juice

Page 52 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

Quick shake in a cocktail shaker then pour into champagne flute. Top with Bella Sparkling Chardonnay and garnish with a fresh Okanagan cherry.

Jay Drysdale Bella Winemaker

www.winetrails.ca

Summer Cocktails More

Apple Pie Martini

The Gindian

Ingredients:

The classic g+t with a hint of liquorice-y star anise.

- 2oz Urban Distillers Spirit Bear Vodka - 2oz Rustic Roots Winery Iced Orin - 1 Organic Cinnamon Stick Directions:

Shake vodka, wine and cinnamon stick in a Martini shaker with ice, strain into cinnamon sugar rimmed Martini glass.

Sara Harker, Rustic Roots Winery

The Munson Mountain Melon

Directions:

Place one star anise in a shaker and crush it with a muddler (2 hits).

Add 1oz Okanagan Spirits gin and a scoop of ice. Shake shake shake! Add Jasmin Dosanj photo nice ice into a rocks glass. Double strain into the glass removing star anise bites.

Top off with tonic water. Garnish with a star anise and lime wheel.

Ingredients: - 1.5 oz Jim Beam Bourbon - 7 oz Bacon Infused Clamato - 2 dash Chef Bernard’s hot sauce - Pepper to season

Bourbon Bacon Cocktail 1. Swirl sesame paste into inside of glass.

2. Rim glass with bacon salt. www.winetrails.ca

The Bramble Ingredients:

- Selection of fresh summer berries - Okanagan Spirits Raspberry Liqueur - Okanagan Spirits Vodka - Freshly squeezed Lime - White Cranberry Juice

Garnish: - Black sesame paste - Bacon salted rim - 1 Strip of cooked bacon - ½ Yellow baby tomato - Celery leaf Recipe: Bacon Infused Clamato 1. Sous vide bacon in Clamato juice at high temperature for 15 min.

Then quickly chill in bath of ice.

2. Refrigerate for 5 days to infuse bacon flavor into the juice.

3. Filter the juice into a container.

4. Season with liquid smoke.

Add all ingredients into a shaker and shake.

Pour into a glass and garnish with a slice of watermelon.

Chris Pagett, Vanilla Pod Restuarant at Poplar Grove Winery

Harry Dosanj, Poppadoms-Taste India!

Smack Dab Bourbon Bacon Caesar

Directions: - Muddle a slice of watermelon with sugar - 3oz of white wine - 1oz of pineapple juice

3. F ill glass with ice and add bourbon.

4. S eason with Chef Bernard’s hot sauce.

5. F ill glass with bacon-infused Clamato juice.

6. Season with pepper.

7. A dd garnish of bacon tomato and celery.

John Cotes, Smack Dab bar at Manteo Resort

Directions:

Wash and place 2 cups (500ml) or assorted berries into a pitcher.

Add one cup (250ml) of Okanagan Spirits Raspberry Liqueur, cover and let steep overnight. In a cocktail shaker add 1/4 cup (60ml) of the marinated berries. Mash them with a muddler. Fill shaker with ice and add 1.5oz of Vodka, the juice of 1/8 fresh lime and 2oz white cranberry juice. Enjoy!

Rodney Goodchild, Okanagan Spirits B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 53

◆ Osoyoos

Four times Four times Four Equals a Great Winery!

I

had the pleasure of meeting the four main family members that started up The Adega on 45th Estate Winery in Osoyoos (Adega means wine cellar in Portuguese).

Ideally located on the road to Spirit Ridge, this lovely winery has now made it through their first year, although they have been years in the family business of orchards and farming in the Okanagan. Brother Fred Farinha and wife Pamala and sister Maria Nunes and husband Alex are at the centre of the family business, with children pitching in to help in the tasting room. During our visit

Maria observed they produced their first wines with four year old vines, there are four of them and four grandchildren, and they just happen to have a Quarteto Tinto Bordeaux blend! “My parents were some of the first Portuguese families to farm in this area, and purchased an orchard in 1966, but it came to a point- as for many orchard farmers -that we had to either sell our land or make a shift,” says Fred, “it was really about keeping another generation here on the land.”

They first switched their vineyards over six years ago, and their

winery vineyard four years ago.

Their first vintage was the 2010 reds and 2011 whites. Two of their wines are named as a tribute to their parents - the ‘Manuel’ and the ‘Felicidade’. They also have a 2009 Portao, port-style made with Merlot grapes. The construction of their beautiful

building is European style, with a barrel room cave dug into the side of the hill.

Bring along a picnic and enjoy a glass of wine on their patio with a spectacular view of Lake Osoyoos and surrounding vineyards and orchards. ~ Terry Meyer-Stone

Family and Tradition ... Timeless.

Open 7 days a week 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Highway 3 (Osoyoos) turn on 45th St., East Osoyoos, BC L-R: Owners Fred, Pamala, Maria and Alex

250 495 6243

The View from the Coop

Confessions

from the vineyard

by Terry Meyer-Stone

T

rue confession: it used to be that the only time I saw 6 am was when I was coming home or catching a plane. Now I’m up at 6 am with great regularity. I’m pretty impressed at how much is happening at that hour that I’ve missed all these years. Who knew?

The rooster crows at first break of dawn and rustles up sleepy hens from their roosts. They greet me

on a busy morning to get their daily feed of leftovers and chicken scratch--make that chicken crack, they love that stuff. We’ve now managed to keep them alive for one year and think we should get more.

Because we’re crazy that way. They did finally start laying, now we’re trying to figure out how to slow them down! Although everyone at work is happily enjoying fresh farm eggs, because we actually can’t eat six eggs a day, no matter how cute they look all lined up in my fridge.

Life is crazy busy in the summer in the Okanagan. Running the wine club at Tinhorn Creek means madly trying to get out cases of wine, plan

Page 54 • B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013

events, chat on the phone and make things more fun for the members.

Okay. For myself, I love parties and anything to do with wine. Then hubby comes home from his full time job and I come home and we have a full time vineyard job, and try to sell a little wine here and there with our first vintage and more in the barrel. Add to that the usual stress of family, finances, fatigue, and animals that keep running away--or worse, run home covered in ticks that you have to pull off with tweezers while you try not to faint. But faint anyway when your husband has one on his leg that he pulls off in front of you,

and then you lay in bed all night throwing the covers off and the lights on anytime you feel a little itch anywhere on your body. Not to mention the rattlesnakes and black widow spider issues. Farm life gets to me and sometimes I daydream about Starbucks and traffic and high heels. But when I tromp up the hill in my boots at 6 am as the morning sun lights up the valley, the view from the coop is like a blow to the heart. Then nothing else matters and I think I am the luckiest crazy woman in the world. www.winetrails.ca

◆ Artist

Bio

Artist LEANNE LAINE

F

rom laid off and unemployed to Leanne earned her education in Business internationally-collected, Leanne Management to keep up with today’s fastLaine is a self-representing artist paced society despite her true passion selling paintings, limited edition prints and -- Art. The drive that turned her hobby licensed images to private and commercial of painting into a full-time career began clients world-wide. With almost 600 works several years ago when she was laid off in her portfolio ranging from still lifes to from her day job due to a corporate landscapes, modern abstracts to dancing buy-out. She decided to hold off on the figuratives, it is her unique wine subjects job search, and even turned down a job that have brought her global recognition. offer, to begin selling her art online. In Leanne is an expressionist whose art has her first year of business, she sold 400 been described to celebrate traditional paintings. Soon after, her husband quit subjects with a liberating, sensual and his job to help her expand the business empowering twist. into publishing and licensing. Currently, “Wine, the art of dance and the more than 70 commercial establishments appreciation for color are a few of my ranging from mid to upscale restaurants, favorite things. Collaborating them all hotels, golf clubs, wineries and tasting strikes a liberating feeling inside of me. In rooms have not only purchased her works my eyes, wine not only moves, it dances for decorative purposes but they are with elegance, grace, poise, confidence also retailing them as well. Thanks to the and power. When I dance, my body support of her growing fans, public and DRAFT is stimulated by the rhythm of music. social media, Leanne continues to live When I paint, my eyes are stimulated by her passion which has allowed her to give Wine Trails the power of what we take for granted back charitably more than2012 ever.

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B.C. Food & Wine Trails • SUMMER 2013 • Page 55