Springtime in the Okanagan means wine release time! 2024 marks another amazing lineup of perfect patio sippers just in time for the sunny days ahead. There are exciting varietals you may not have tried before, so DO make a point of taking your palate on a wonderful tasting safari and plan to visit each of these wineries to sample and stock your shelves for summer.
Arrowleaf Cellars, Lake Country: 2023 Bacchus
Arrowleaf Cellars is a family owned and operated small winery with a big brand. Renowned for their approachable pricing, excellent wines, stunning lake view and cream puffs(!), Arrowleaf has become a destination for wine tourists in Lake Country.
Bacchus is a German grape variety (Silvaner/Riesling X Müller-Thurgau cross) that produces lively, aromatic wines that are naturally low in alcohol. A fan favourite at Arrowleaf, aromas will include notes of papaya, elderflower, and fresh-cut grass. This wine is dry on the palate with lingering flavours of herbs, citrus and grapefruit--a sensory bomb that every white wine lover needs to experience.
Gray Monk Estate Winery, Lake Country: 2023 Siegerrebe
Gray Monk Estate Winery is one of the Okanagan’s original wineries first established in 1972. Set in gorgeous Lake Country, it was the first winery in this now established wine region and offers a beautiful European style estate to enjoy and a restaurant that is now open for the season.
Siegerrebe is a white wine grape that is very popular in Europe. Crystal clear and bright in the glass, with subtle notes of white peach, pear blossom, and a touch of apple complemented by sumptuous notes of exotic flowers.
This new release of Siegerrebe is part of Gray Monk’s Roots Collection that pays tribute to their German heritage and the newly designated Lake Country Sub-Appellation. By showcasing unique varietals like Ehrenfelser, Kerner, and Siegerrebe, it celebrates the distinct character of the region.
Tantalus Vineyards, Kelowna: 2022 Gewürztraminer & 2022 Cabernet Franc
Big wine news! Award-winning Tantalus Vineyards has two brand new varietals to offer on their wine list this year. Tantalus is one of Kelowna’s most iconic wineries and offers visitors a high-level winery experience complete with panoramic lake and vineyard views to enjoy from their glass-walled tasting room that also features a resplendent curated art collection.
2022 Gewürztraminer
Super small lot, the winery has only produced 85 cases of this super aromatic wine that will be a tasting room exclusive-- so a visit to the winery to purchase is essential. Like sunlight in a glass, the aromatic profile of this release features ripe mango, peach, Turkish delight and lychee purée, paired up with a lovely floral quality and a pink peppercorn note. The palate has poise, it has weight, but it also has a fresh, cleansing acidity and notes of mango, pear, dried apricots, and a touch of orange pith. The lovely white wine tannins from the skin contact add to the floral vibe, texture, and endless length of this wine.
2022 Cabernet Franc
This wine is part of their Further Afield Series featuring grapes sourced from compelling sites crafted with a “Tantalus perspective”. Bright ruby in the glass, this first release of Cabernet Franc is a complex one. The nose is layered with tomato leaf, cardamom, fresh tobacco, and crushed rocks complemented by a red fruit profile of juicy raspberry and pomegranate. The use of whole bunch grape pressing provides a punch of flavour that lends a subtle floral and ripe herb character. The palate is awash with plum and raspberry with more tobacco and pomegranate coming through to pair with the aromatic profile. Great length with a core mineral line-- this speaks to the high-quality vineyard from which it comes.
Priest Creek Family Estate Winery, Kelowna: Small Format Sparkling Merlot
The Sawin family are the owners and operators of one of the newest farmgate wineries in Southeast Kelowna, Priest Creek Family Estate Winery. Set in a charming orchard and vine laden neighbourhood, visitors can experience the essence of Kelowna’s storied agriculture district.
Small format Sparkling Merlot- This Frizzante-style sparkling Merlot boasts a vibrant ruby hue and a delicate effervescence. On the palate, juicy red plum and crisp raspberry flavors are balanced with a hint of earthiness, creating depth and complexity. The fine, persistent bubbles enhance its refreshing qualities, leading to a clean, elegant finish. This dry sparkling Merlot is perfect as an independent treat but also pairs well with appetizers, salads, and lighter entrées and makes for the perfect picnic wine!
Header Image taken at Tantalus Vineyards. Photo: Shawn Talbot Photography
