12 minute read
Fresh Flavours
From spring to fall, the Similkameen offers a kaleidoscope of fresh from the farm flavours. Join the growing number of home cooks and professional chefs who travel to Keremeos, Canada’s Fruit Stand Capital, to buy organic produce, grown next door in Cawston, the Organic Farming Capital of Canada. Taste the distinct flavours of the Similkameen terroir in our grape and fruit wines, ciders, fruit, and organic produce.
Peaches ripe for picking at Harker’s Organics
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Keremeos – Fruit Stand Capital of Canada Living up to its reputation as also find a tasty assortment of the friendliest people here the Fruit Stand Capital of of Similkameen honey, jams, over a bushel basket of fresh Canada, the highway between preserves, chutney, pies, greens or a pile of pumpkins— Keremeos and Cawston is juices, and wine vinegars. Bite where you’ll find a rainbow of into a piece of fresh-baked pie colourful stands dotting the made from just about every The valley is proud of landscape. Taste just-picked tree fruit you can imagine. its produce produce and locally-made Some of the fruit stands preserves from over 15 fruit have been here for over 100 stands and farm-side markets years, offering an array of that dot the wide valley just-harvested fruits and bottom. Sink your teeth vegetables. Things have into mouth-watering sun- changed somewhat over the kissed fruits and vegetables, years, reflecting the diversity grown right here in the Similkameen. Find perfectly ripened cherries, peaches, apricots, crisp apples, fresh vegetables, and more than 200 varieties of peppers. You’ll of the Similkameen Valley. You can now find exotic Indian dishes, East Asian fashions, and the handiwork of local artisans as well. You can meet some growers dropping off a delivery, professional chefs and home cooks shopping for produce in bulk, and folks putting together a perfect picnic.
Cawston – Organic Farming Capital of Canada If it comes out of the ground conditions are ideal for many Some of our farmers have in Cawston, chances are it’s types of fruits and vegetables worked the family farm for organic, which is why Cawston so even the non-certified generations, while others are is known as the Organic Farm growers have little need for new to the area, brimming Capital of Canada. With nearly herbicides and pesticides. with great ideas.100 certified organic farms, the Lower Similkameen Valley has the highest concentration of organic farms in Canada. Over 40% of farms grow certified organic fruit and vegetables. Our long growing season and hot summer days ensure our fruits and vegetables are some of the tastiest you’ve ever eaten. The dry, windy The near-desert climate here provides fantastic growing conditions for growing healthy food sustainably. Linger a while and you may meet up with growers happy to chat about their crops. Our growers toil side-byside to produce a bounty of seasonal crops in a place where agriculture is a way of life. Take a bite of a sweet Ambrosia apple, a varietal that was cultivated here in the 1990s. Browse the markets for 200 kinds of peppers and more than 30 varieties of field-grown heirloom tomatoes, dozens of types of cherries, and plenty of pumpkins, gourds, and corn.
Orchard & Vineyard Stays These family run boutique views in one of Orofino’s luxury guest accommodations are fully equipped vineyard suites. your chance to sip, savour, and Stay in a German Country Inn stay on a working orchard or at Crowsnest Vineyard, enjoying vineyard. Stay right on the farm daily fresh-baked bread and your at Farmersdotter Organics or morning coffee as you stroll Klippers Organics. Take a stroll through a vineyard or farm. through the lavender patch and To learn which orchards and the herb garden at Tree to Me B&B and shop at the onsite market filled with produce from their own organic farm. Wake up to beautiful vineyard vineyards have accommodations, visit the directory on SimilkameenValley.com or stop in at the Keremeos Visitor Center. ➤
Enjoying a meal at Crowsnest Vineyard
The Similkameen Independent Winegrowers have a common goal – to express the gift of our rare terroir by creating award-winning wines and ciders that reflect this unique place. See the beauty. Taste the Similkameen.
Robin Ridge Corcelettes
Rustic Clos du Soleil Upper HuggingBenchRd. Klippers Tree Becks Rd. Untangled Roots BarceloRd Orofino
Visit Our Tasting Rooms and Patios
CLOS DU SOLEIL WINERY 2568 Upper Bench Rd., Keremeos 250-499-2831 | www.closdusoleil.ca
CORCELETTES ESTATE WINERY 2582 Upper Bench Rd., Keremeos 250-499-5595 | www.CorcelettesWine.ca
CROWSNEST VINEYARDS 2135 Surprise Drive, Cawston, BC 250-499-5129 | www.crowsnestvineyards.com
EAU VIVRE WINERY 716 Lowe Drive, Cawston 250-499-2655 | www.eauvivrewinery.ca
FORBIDDEN FRUIT WINERY 620 Sumac Rd., Cawston 250-499-2649 | www.forbiddenfruitwines.com
HUGGING TREE WINERY 2505 Upper Bench Rd., Keremeos 250-499-2201 | www.huggingtreewinery.com
KLIPPERS UNTANGLED CRAFT CIDER 725 Mackenzie Road Cawston, BC. V0X 1C2 250-499-0758 | www.klippersorganics.com
LIBER FARM & WINERY 156 Sumac Rd, Cawston 250-499-5305 |
OROFINO WINERY 2152 Barcelo Rd., Cawston 250-499-0068 | www.orofinovineyards.com
ROBIN RIDGE WINERY 2686 Middle Bench Rd., Keremeos 250-499-5504 | www. robinridgewinery.com
RUSTIC ROOTS WINERY 2238 Hwy. 3, Cawston 250-499-2754 | www.rusticrootswinery.com
SEVEN STONES WINERY 1143 Hwy. 3, Cawston 250-499-2144 | www.sevenstones.ca
TWISTED HILLS CRAFT CIDER 2070 Hwy. 3, Cawston 250-499-0807 | www.twistedhills.ca
VANESSA VINEYARD ESTATE WINERY 1090 Hwy. 3, Cawston 250-499-8811 | www.vanessavineyard.com
www.similkameenwine.com @similkameenwine
Twisted Hills
SurpriseRd.
Eau Vivre Crowsnest
Vanessa
Seven Stones
Liber Forbidden
Fruit
OSOYOOS 15 mins.
* Outdoor Patios at all wineries/cideries
#similkameenwine
Similkameen Valley VQA
WHERE TO SIP TASTE OUR TERROIR
We have over a dozen Similkameen wineries have wineries and cideries in the made a name for themselves Similkameen, with vineyards as one of the fastest growing clustered around Keremeos and best grapegrowing regions and Cawston. Down- in Canada. Our beautiful valley home hospitality creates is a recognized grapegrowing an unforgettable tasting appellation with an official experience. Meet our wine and geographical indicator. The cider makers in tasting Similkameen Valley terroir rooms or on sundrenched is quite unique in that it was patios overlooking beautiful created when the glaciers vineyards. They are happy melted, creating a huge river to share stories about their bed. As the water receded it wines. Sip beneath the shade left behind .5 to 1.5 m (2 to of a 100-year old apple tree. 5 ft) of loamy topsoil with Overlook the shores of the calcium-covered river rocks Similkameen River or venture underneath. Combine those deep into a cave built for wine elements with sustainable and storage and special events, organic farming practices and and tastings.There are over a you’ve got the ingredients for dozen wineries with licensed world-renowned wines crafted patios and picnic areas. Many right in our backyard. Popular restaurants and pubs in the varietals include: Chardonnay, Similkameen, and throughout Riesling, Gewürztraminer, BC, also serve our wines and Merlot, Cabernet Franc, craft beers. Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. Have a taste and you’ll see what all the buzz is about.
SWIRL, SNIFF, SIP
Hot, sun-soaked summers and windy days create the perfect conditions for growing juicy grapes. You can almost taste the Similkameen sunshine in every glass. Discover why our wines have garnered hundreds of awards, earning recognition as some of the best in the world.
Winemakers here grow a variety of grapes suited to their specific vineyards, mastering the art and science of creating wines that will have you swirling, sniffing, sipping and smiling your way across the Similkameen. Grapes are crafted into vintages that pair beautifully with meals, appies, or cheese platters. Take time to savour these Similkameen flavours while relaxing in the sun on one of our patios or
Sampling the vintage at Corcelettes Winery
paired with a perfect picnic of local ingredients.
CIDER & FRUIT WINES
Beat the summer heat with one of our delicious apple or pear ciders. These traditional, hard ciders come in a range of styles from dry to semisweet, and some are even blended with other fruits to create delightful summer sippers. Many cideries and fruit wineries use organically grown fruit because of the favourable conditions here and a commitment to respecting our land. Sample a wide variety of organic fruit wines, overlooking the Similkameen River at Forbidden Fruit Winery. Sip ciders looking out at the orchards where the fruit was grown at Klippers Untangled Craft Cider. Enter the cider dome at Twisted Hills Craft Cider for a taste of sweet organic artisan cider. ➤
OLD WORLD ELEGANCE NEW WORLD EDGE
Taste Award-Winning Wines at Clos du Soleil Winery
Wine shop open March 20 to October 31 10am to 5pm daily
Email: wine@closdusoleil.ca Call: 250-499-2831 Visit: www.closdusoleil.ca
@closdusoleil @closdusoleilwinery
Vanessa Vineyard in Cawston
WINE TOURS – LAND OR AIR
Let our guides show you the way. Hop in an air-conditioned van and meander your way from winery to winery as the experts show you a good time! Take flight on a helicopter and see the valley from above. Several of our wineries have helipads so you can get a bird’s eye view of the valley and stunning views of the vineyards below. See our directory online or contact the Visitor Centre nearest you for more information.
OPEN SEASONALLY
Open from April/May to October (and by appointment in winter) our tasting rooms and special events provide an intimate winery experience with winemakers. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a taste of wine with your meal on a vineyard patio. Come on your own or with an organized tour. Make a weekend of it for the full Similkameen experience.
WINERY EVENTS
We have lots to be thankful for here, and we love celebrating it! Winery events like Seven Stones’ Vertical Tastings held in their underground cave and our wineries’ Christmas Open Houses are a fun way to celebrate Similkameen wines with us.
The Eateries Fresh, delicious, and mouthwatering flavours entice you with each visit to the Similkameen Valley. Choose from eclectic dining scenes to down-home cooking in Princeton, Keremeos, Hedley, and Cawston.
The diverse range of eateries tucked away in
Vanessa Vineyard in Cawston
Keremeos may surprise you: Benja Thai is known throughout the region as “Thai worth the drive.” There’s also the Branding Iron Bar and the Ranch Restaurant. Up the road at the Crowsnest Winery, drop by for fresh baked bread or Sasha’s handmade pizza baked in a wood fire oven during the summer on Fridays. For full flavours and a bit of spice, check out Sanderson Farms Fruit Stand and Samosa Garden Restaurant, known for homemade pakoras, samosas, and a wide range of curries.
Harker’s Organics Barn ➤
In the stunning Similkameen Valley Offering distinctive, single vineyard wines that celebrate their origin.
Spacious 1 and 2 bedroom suites overlook our vineyard to provide the ultimate wine country stay.
2152 Barcelo Road, Cawston, BC (250) 499-0068
#similkameenrocks
Social Media
Facebook: SimilkameenBC Instagram: Similkameen
WINE & GIFT SHOP OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 10-5PM DINNING ROOM & PATIO FEATURING EUROPEAN CUISINE FRESH BAKED GOODS PIZZA’S FROM OUR WOOD FIRED OVEN
250 499 5129
2035 Surprise Drive | Cawston, BC
Robin Ridge Winery in Keremeos
Door Bistro is a quaint organic bistro with seasonally inspired dishes, daily baking, take-away, organic slushies, coffee, and ice cream. The Harkers have been leading the charge in local organic and sustainable farming for over 120 years and six generations. Take a farm tour, lunch on just-picked produce, and sample the award-winning fruit wine and ciders.
Tree to Me is the place to go for a stroll through the herb and lavender patches before a bite in the café. Stock up on produce at the organic market, and desserts in the bakery.
Row 14 Restaurant opened in June 2019 in Cawston, offering a casual fine dining experience.
Similkameen sunshine in every bottle
May - October: 10:00 - 5:30 or by appointment 250-499-5504 2686 Middle Bench Rd Keremeos www.robinridgewinery.com
Crowsnest Winery in Cawston
Passion. Precision. Purpose. Get a Taste of it!
Top 10 Wineries in Canada at NWAC 2019 Top 10 Small Wineries in Canada at NWAC 2018 & 2019
Open: 10:30-5:30 ● 250.499.5595 2582 Upper Bench Road, Keremeos www.CorcelettesWine.cCorcelettesWine.ca a
This true farm to table restaurant is located in the middle of an orchard, prepping meals in a wood fired oven.
This may well be one of the tastiest journeys you’ve ever taken. For gluten-free alternatives check out BuyLow Foods in Keremeos for a line of gluten-free treats baked on site.
The Grist Mill and Gardens has a delicious Sunday brunch made with fresh heirloom ingredients grown onsite. The al fresco long-table dinners showcase produce in peak season. The Grist Mill takeout menu includes picnic baskets to enjoy either in the gardens or as you explore the Similkameen Valley. The working agricultural Victorian-style ornamental garden grows heritage varieties of apples, wheat, tomatoes, carrots, and some odd crops like Zucca melons and gourds that can weigh up to 120 lbs.
Drop in for a cuppa tea and a slice of pie at the Hedley Museum. The Country Store is also open with a wide selection of soups, sandwiches, and other tasty treats perfect for a picnic. The Nickel Plate Restaurant has a full menu and serves breakfast and lunch daily until 2 pm, except Wednesdays.
In Princeton, breathe in the fresh air on the outdoor patio at the southern style barbeque, the Copper Pit or enjoy made-fromscratch treats at the Vermillion Fork. Check out the Mediterranean fare at Little Creek Grill, where the steaks are tender and desserts are delicious, with gluten free options. Mikado Sushi is known for high quality Japanese food. Family friendly fare and breakfast all day can be found at Billy’s Family Restaurant, named for gentleman train robber, Billy Miner. Take a bite of a tasty burger or sandwich at the Brown Bridge Pub. Don’t forget Thomasina’s, a great bakery with take-out food, table service, and outdoor seating. The quaint and quirky coffee shops in Princeton offer fantastic drinks and great lunch choices, with Cool Beanz offering vegan options.
Little Creek Grill, Princeton
You’re sure to enjoy your culinary adventure in the flavourful Similkameen Valley.
Taste the freshness at our local eateries, with dishes proudly created with locally sourced ingredients.
