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Okanagan Wineries |
Apex Mountain Resort's Award Winning Slope-side Accommodations |
Wine |
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| Apex Mountain Resort, Penticton, BC, Canada |
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Fine Wine, Great Views, Relaxed Tours |
British Columbia’s Wine Country is located in two principal wine-growing areas: the coastal regions of Vancouver Island and the Fraser Valley; and the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys in the southern, inland part of the province. Apex Mountain Resort, and the Saddleback Lodge, is conveniently located in the middle of this second region, thus making it the perfect location for day trips to the numerous vineyards in the area. Situated in central British Columbia, the Okanagan Valley is the largest and oldest wine-producing region in the province. Today, there are over 40 wineries spread throughout the valley with a total of 4,200 acres (1,700 hectares) of premium grape varieties. The south end of the valley gets less than six inches of rainfall a year, making it the only area in Canada to be classified as desert, while the north end of the valley receives less than sixteen inches. Classic red vinifera grapes are widely planted in the south end, while French and Germanic white grape varieties favour the northern climate. The Okanagan Valley is also one of the largest tourist attractions in British Columbia offering numerous summer and winter activities for all age groups and abilities.
As the ideal wine valley, the Okanagan is known for its picturesque wineries that overlook Okanagan Lake. The climate and setting of the Okanagan Valley provides the perfect conditions for wine grapes. The quality of grapes grown here produce some of the best wines in Canada and are known throughout the world.
Why not try a relaxing day trip into the valley after breakfast? Many of our local wineries offer snacks, picturesque grounds to enjoy a picnic lunch, or full course lunches and dinners, all accompanied by world class wines. A day spent tasting at some of our local vineyards will allow one to see just why B.C. is making a lasting impression within the world market of fine wines.
Burrowing Owl Winery
The following hand-book outlines three day-trips all within easy reach of The Saddleback Lodge.
1. Naramata Tour, the shortest drive, through spectacular scenery, just north east of Penticton. Smaller, interesting wineries with fabulous wines.
2. Summerland to Kelowna Tour, takes you north towards Kelowna. This is home to some of the larger wineries.
3. Okanagan Falls to Osoyoos Tour, south through orchards and desert country. Home of the big reds Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignons etc.
There are several options open to you for doing this. Driving yourself is the easiest or if you prefer we can arrange a pick-up and drop-off with one of our local shuttle services. For those who enjoy cycling there is organized winery tours by bike, or just simply hop on the Kettle Valley Trail and follow it yourself. There are several tour companies who are available to give you the full guided tour through any region in the Okanagan. Any way you chose a day spent at our local wineries offers great tastings, excellent cuisine, and friendly knowledgeable staff available to answer any questions you may have about the process of growing, making and marketing wine. Read on for a full description, map at bottom of page!
View from Red Rooster Winery in the fall.
Stretching from Penticton to Naramata this particular wine route is the most compact of all of the valley routes, 15 kilometres each way. Whether you drive, shuttle or cycle the trip along the south eastern portion of Okanagan Lake offers spectacular views up the valley towards Peachland. The Kettle Valley Railway is within easy access to many of the wineries, the others simply a short detour away. Several of the wineries offer lunches and dinners on there outdoors patios or if you choose pack a picnic lunch and sit out in the Elephant Island Winery courtyard. For those who like to pamper themselves just a little bit more spend a few hours at the far end of the tour and enjoy a spa at the Naramata Heritage Inn & Spa. Although not part of the actual wine route, this historic inn has been beautifully restored and is well worth a visit.
From a southern to northern direction the first winery encountered is Benchland Vineyards, owned and operated by Klaus Stadler. With more than six varietal grapes, Benchland offers a unique red, Zweigelt, the first ever grown and produced in British Columbia.
Next we come to La Frenz Winery, owned and operated by Jeff & Neva Martin. It has been a busy year for the Martins, planting, renovating and building, but this summer it has all come together. Stop by and enjoy a sample in their new tasting room and see what our newest winery has to offer.
A short distance up the road one can not help but notice the 72 foot tower at Hillside Estate Winery. One of the original farm wineries, the original vintage was produced in 1989. Offering both lunch and dinner at the Barrel Room Bistro
& Trellis Patio, one can enjoy both the views and the hospitality before venturing up the road.
Lake Breeze Vineyards sits on the lower side of Naramata Rd. offering fantastic views from its outdoor patio where one can sit and enjoy lunch after a visit to the tasting room, which incidentally was built by our very own John Davis, yes that would be Diesel of the Saddleback Lodge.
Further along and a little off the main road, but along the Kettle Valley Trail sits Lang Vineyards, owned by Guenther & Kristina Lang. As the first farm gate winery in B.C. they are very proud of their very controlled, fine European winemaking procedures. While there pick up a bottle of Methode Classique Sparkling Wine home of the original Canadian Maple Brut.
Synonymous with the Okanagan is fruit and the next winery, Elephant Island, is the only winery in the valley that crafts wine from fruit rather than grapes. Miranda & Del Halladay along with their Bordeaux-trained winemaker Christine Leroux have refined the crafting of fruit wines without the addition of colours or flavours. For a truly unique Okanagan experience pack a picnic and sit in their courtyard to enjoy the flavours of fruit.
Beat & Prudence Mahrer of Red Rooster Winery enjoy a breathtaking view of the lake so if you haven’t managed to stop for a bite to eat they serve quiche and salad daily on their deck. While there have a look around, Diesel has made his mark yet again building both their winery and home. If they ask you for egg cartons, don’t worry; just tell them Barb forgot to send them with you.
Prudence & Beat Mahrer
Further down the road is Kettle Valley Winery owned and operated by Bob Ferguson and Tim Watts. Located along the Kettle Valley Railway route it makes for a scenic stop along the Naramata wine route.
The last vineyard on the Naramata tour, or the first depending on how you look at it, is Nichol Vineyard. Proprietors Alex & Kathleen Nichol take pride in the planting and production of Canada’s first Syrah. Their plants which were imported from Valence, in the Rhone Valley, produced their first commercial crop in 1993.
That brings us to the end of the Naramata Wine Route, however, don’t turn back yet. We haven’t made it into the quaint town of Naramata itself. Known as the ‘Hidden Treasure At The End Of A Road,’ the town sits on the shores of the lake along the Kettle Valley Railway. It is here that the Naramata Heritage Inn & Spa are located a stones throw from the shore-line. Built in 1908 by J.M. Robinson, it has seen many changes, however, none so pronounced as its recent reconstruction to its original glory with a few more modern additions. Their Heirloom Spa is a great aside to any outing or enjoy live blues and jazz during the weekends in the valleys first Wine Bar, The Cobblestone, either outside on their terrace or in their beautifully appointed restaurant for either lunch or dinner. If you have time and their not too busy ask one of their staff to show you around, you won’t regret it.
Red Rooster Winery in the fall
Mission Hill Winery at Sunset
This route takes you along the western side of Okanagan Lake offering equally spectacular views from a different perspective. From this side of the lake one can see the lay of the vineyards along the bench of Naramata Rd. and beyond that the unspoiled beauty of Okanagan Lake Park. Plan for a longer day out as the distance to travel is further, or add the Summerland portion to your Naramata trip and reserve the rest for another day. If you plan to do only the Summerland Wineries cycling is an option, however, it is on the road and beware of Summerland Hill, can you say Iron man. If driving is your preferred mode of transportation than we can arrange a drop-off and pick-up with one of our local shuttle services. Either way you chose to do it there is plenty of variety as every winery offers something unique.
Your first stop in Summerland will be Scherzinger Vineyards owned and operated by Ron & Cher Watkins. Overlooking the Historic Kettle Steam Railway, you may luck out and see it steam by while there taking in the views and tasting their organically produced wines. Bring along a picnic lunch and try their specialty blush, Sweet Caroline, it’s a refreshing sipper for the summer months.
Next stop is Thornhaven Estates a beautiful Santa Fe style building offering a panorama of the lake. The Fraser’s invite you to enjoy their views and wine out on their sun-deck, and if you like pack along a picnic and savour the day that much longer.
Sumac Ridge Estate Winery takes pride in being British Columbia’s premier Estate Winery, founded in 1979 by Harry McWatters. Their recently remodelled tasting room and restaurant, Cellar Door Bistro, is open for brunch, lunch and dinner. Feel like indulging a little than take part in a more intimate tasting in their new Connoisseur Tasting Room for a small fee, or plan on staying for one of their gourmet Winemaker Style Dinners. If you need a few pointers in the kitchen ask to speak to Executive Chef, Neil Schroeter, whose demonstrations take some of the mystery out of cooking with wine.
Further down the road in Peachland we come to Hainle Vineyards where winemaker Tilman Hainle continues to produce organic wines with the new owners, the Huber Family. Enjoy lunch or dinner at the Amphora Bistro, the first licensed winery bistro in British Columbia, and take in a different view of the lake from above Peachland.
View from Mission Hill Winery
Grandiose definitely describes Mission Hill Family Estate Winery located in West Bank. Sitting high above the lake one can not miss the tower with its imported bell. Enjoy the views as you tour the grounds, or take a tour of the winery with one of its staff. If you have a large group, Mission Hill is well equipped to cater to your needs.
The Stewart Family invites you to their vineyard at Quails Gate Estate Winery, in the family since 1956, making it one of the oldest producing vineyards in the
Quail’s Gate Wine Shop
Photo Courtesy of Navigator Multimedia Inc.
Okanagan Valley. Enjoy a tasting in the historic home of the Allison Family (1870’s), true pioneers in this valley. Old Vines Patio offers panoramic views of the lake and vineyard while enjoying either lunch or dinner. Quails Gate also offers extensive tours for those who wish to brush up on their viticulture for a small fee.
Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery is owned and operated by the Gidda Family. The family has been growing grapes in the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys since 1976 and invites you to taste the fruits of their labour and stroll through their vineyards overlooking the lake.
Slamka Cellars Winery, owned by Pete Slamka sits at the foot of Mt. Boucherie. While there try his five wine blend, Tapestry, a unique blend and flavour that you will not find at any other winery.
Summerhill Estate Winery enjoys the distinction of being Canada’s largest
Summerhill Estate Winery
certified organic vineyard with stunning 40 km views of the lake. Open for both lunch and dinner at the Summerhill Sunset Veranda, come a little early to partake in a free champagne making seminar.
Leo & Andy Gebert invite you to enjoy their organically grown, non-oaked, Swiss style varietal wines at St. Hubertus Vineyard. However, if you prefer wines made in oak, both French and American, try their other label Oak Bay. While there take a walk around and enjoy the views.
Cedar Creek Estate Winery sits overlooking Okanagan Lake on the eastern side of Kelowna. After visiting the tasting room enjoy a glass of wine with some tapas on their Vineyard Terrace, the view is wonderful.
Cedar Creek Estate Winery Terrace
Pinot Reach Cellars is steeped in history. Acquired in the 1930’s by the Dulik Family, it has remained in the family since and is now operated by Susan Dulik. The original 50-acre vineyard is one of the first original plantings in the Okanagan Valley and to this day still retains some of its original vines. With the opening of Pinot Reach, Susan has taken the final steps in carrying on the family tradition. Bring along a picnic and enjoy the views, you may even luck out and happen upon one of their live music events.
South Okanagan Valley Tour
Noted for being Canada’s only desert region, a trip south of Penticton makes for a great afternoon of scenic driving and sights. Why not pack along your bathing suit, there are plenty of lakes to stop at and take a refreshing dip before carrying on down the road.
Hawthorne Mountain Vineyards Patio
Looking for a spectacular view straight down the valley, and a patio to enjoy a glass of wine with a picnic lunch, then Hawthorne Mountain Vineyards is the perfect stop. This spectacular 100 acre site was settled in the early 1900’s by the Hawthorne Brothers, and they have been growing grapes here since the 1960’s. The wine tasting room is located within the historic Major Fraser Fieldstone residence featuring many heirloom pieces. New this year will be personally led Connoisseur Tastings, for a small fee, in beautifully appointed sitting rooms featuring original ‘fish bowl windows.’
The next winery along this route is Wild Goose Vineyards, the second to be licensed in British Columbia in 1990. Visitors are invited to bring along a picnic lunch, or chose from their selection of lunch snacks. Don’t mind the fence surrounding the vineyard, it’s not to keep you in, but rather to keep out the local deer that seem to like the fruits of the vine as much we do.
Literally next door Larry Gerelus and Linda Pruegger invite you to visit Stag’s Hollow. Their new deck set amongst the vineyard is a perfect place to relax and try some of their new releases.
Looking for something a little different. Blue Mountain invites you to visit their unique winery nestled within a wildlife sanctuary. They offer tastings by appointment only so if you are interested drop by the office where we would be happy to make the arrangements for you.
Vincor has become a name associated with many of our Okanagan Wineries. If you’re interested in seeing a much larger operation, which is still undergoing expansion, then drop by their tasting room. Steeped in local history, this old packing house has some unique tid bits to share as well as a selection of local wines. This is also the home of Jackson-Triggs.
Bill Eggert’s Fairview Cellars has been 25 year quest to own and operate his own winery. When he isn’t here at Apex working with our Ski Patrol, Bill is busy producing his ‘big reds.’ All of his wines are made from a single vineyard using the three classic Bordeaux Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
Tinhorn Creek Estate Winery
Nestled below an abandoned gold mine, Tinhorn Creek Estate Winery sits on top of Oliver. Kenn and Sandra Oldfield invite you to stay as long as you wish, enjoy a self-guided tour or spend the day and hike in the hills surrounding the vineyard. If you have time and luck out on the dates you may be able to enjoy one of their live evening performances in the natural amphitheatre. For Summer Concert Series listing please inquire at the office.
Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery is a culmination of brothers Walter and Gordon. Acquiring the wine masters art in Weinsberg, Germany they both returned every summer to pass on their knowledge. After careful evaluation of the unique micro-climate in the region they purchased their present vineyard in 1981, and produced their first vintage in 1985.
Entering
through massive old wooden doors one is quickly taken by the cozy atmosphere of Hester
Creek Estate Winery. Their new tasting room and boutique is bright and airy,
decorated in an Old World style. Enjoy deli foods and wine by the glass in their
vine covered outdoor patio.
Inniskillin Okanagan has joined its Ontario counterpart Inniskillin Niagara in producing award winning wines. Stop by and see for yourself in their tasting room.
Taking its name from British Columbia’s unique grape growing region, Golden Mile Cellars is unique in itself. The Okanagan’s only medieval castle has lowered its drawbridge to allow visitors into their tasting room. Enjoy the views from the circular wine shop in this family run vineyard which originated just down the road in Kaleden.
Carriage House Wines is the first winery south of Oliver on Black Sage Road. Dave and Karen Wagner invite you to sample some of their wine and if you happen to pass by in mid July some of their fresh apricots which surround the entrance to their winery.
Black Hills Estate Winery
Black Hills Estate Winery also known for their reds, is not to be missed. Their unique winery resembles a huge wine cave, with oak barrels containing next year’s vintage lining the floor. What better to sample with some of their wine than Black Hills Cheese, enjoy.
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, the last stop on this southern tour, is undergoing some renovations this summer but don’t let that stop you from enjoying both the views and the wine. Their patio will now be enclosed and become the new wine shop and tasting room, however, the views south toward Osoyoos Lake have not been sacrificed.
That brings us to the end of the southern loop. If you’re looking for a place to sit and enjoy the sunset while pairing some of our great Okanagan wines with a first class meal stop in Kaleden and visit Allan Dell at The Historic 1912 Restaurant. Noted for not only his view across Skaha Lake, The 1912 has an extensive wine cellar dedicated solely to our local wines.
Okanagan Map
Alison Healey, Saddleback Lodge, 2002.
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