Six BC Wines for White Wine Day

Happy National White Wine Day!

To celebrate, we’ve got a list of six exciting BC wines that will be perfect for your next occasion or dinner this summer.

White wines have been around for at least 4,000 years and through those years wineries have only gotten better at creating tastier vintages. With crisper tones, white wines have a more acidic, floral, and fruity taste, giving them a lighter flavour combined with subtle overtones.

Try these:

1.     Blue Grouse 2021 Ortega - $25.99 online or in select wine stores in BC. The wine reflects the best of Cowichan Valley’s warm summers. Ortega is Vancouver Island’s signature grape, and Blue Grouse is Vancouver Island’s signature winery, so this wine is the perfect representation of the region. Whole cluster pressed, this fruit-forward wine is bright, savoury, and well-balanced.

2.     Singletree 2020 Gruner Veltliner - $19.10 online or get it while you can at Vij’s Restaurant. Only 111 cases made. The wine was fermented in stainless steel to bring out delicious aromas of nectarine, pineapple, and melon. There are also flavours of Meyer lemon, apple, and citrus. Pair this refreshing white wine with some roasted asparagus and smoked fish.  

3.     Blasted Church 2021 Unorthodox Chardonnay - $22.00 online or at the winery in Okanagan Falls, BC. Its ‘unorthodox’ name is a nod to the wine being the only one made in Canada with Chardonnay Musque. This lesser grown in BC Chardonnay offers waves of bright floral and spice, and a splash of stone fruit, all supported by a vibrant undercurrent of fresh citrus.

4.     Haywire Switchback 2018 Pinot Gris - $29.99 online, at Legacy Liquor Store or Marquis Wine Cellars. A special wine from a special place lovingly organically farmed and tended to. This wine shows the adaptability of Pinot Gris to represent the region and more importantly its site and micro-climate. Truly a wine that can only be known as “Switchback”. Harvested in two batches and whole bunch pressed, it was naturally fermented before resting on lees for 10 months. The wine itself has a creamy mouthfeel along with lively acidity that displays citrus and stone fruit characters. Critics love this wine, and you will too.

5.     Chronos 2020 Riesling - $28.99 online or at Save-On-Foods. Crafted with precision by winemaker Lynzee Schatz at TIME Family of Wines, this unrushed wine brings out the Okanagan Valley terroir exquisitely. Fermented in two different tanks with different yeast strains, blending them together brought out their sweetness and acidity. To enjoy this vibrant, bright, and juicy wine, sip it during a meal with an orange-miso halibut and a beet carpaccio.

6.     Coolshanagh 2018 Chardonnay - $30.00 online. Our premium pick, nothing brings out Okanagan terroir better than this wine. The new world Chardonnay was handled with care, it was fermented through 25% new French oak barrel, 25% concrete tank and 50% stainless steel. The Chardonnay has a classic Okanagan mineral streak and integrates flavours of popcorn, wet stone, and rich ripe fruit flavours.

Happy Pinot Gris Day!

Originating in Burgundy, France in the Middle Ages, this white grape variety is a mutation of pinot noir and has medium acidity with flavours of citrus, green apple, and white peach.  

To help celebrate Pinot Gris Day, here are 6 locally made, delicious Pinot Gris!

1.     Blue Grouse Quill 2021 Pinot Gris - $22.99 online or select wine stores in BC. The Cowichan Valley gives this wine its fresh acidity and the presence of some malolactic fermentation adds a medium body, with a nice touch of creaminess on the palate. Expect flavours of apple compote and lemon curd. This “sipper” is ideally paired with halibut, shellfish, an endive salad or a hard cheese like Manchego.

2.     Evolve 2020 Pinot Gris - $22.99 online or at Save-On-Foods. Light as air, and soft as silk. Lovingly made for the heat of the day and the heat of the moment. Floral and fragrant, an Okanagan summer in a glass. Aged sur lie for an extra textural flair, to set it apart from the rest.

3.     Blasted Church 2021 Skaha Bench Pinot Gris - $24.00 online or at the winery in Okanagan Falls, BC. Rich stone fruit on the attack through into the beautifully textured mid-palate. The pear, apple, and citrus pile on into the vibrant finish. Pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or salty cheese.

4.     Haywire 2021 Pinot Gris - $27.99 online or at the winery’s store in Summerland, BC. Intensely textured and very fruit forward with juicy acidity, this wine was pressed and fermented in concrete, stainless steel and oak foudre using natural yeast. The wine stayed on its lees for six months before being filtered and bottled.

5.     Singletree 2020 Pinot Gris - $19.10 online or the winery’s store in Abbotsford, BC. Cool-fermented in stainless steel to result in aromas of pineapple, peppers, and tangerine. Flavours of Asian pear and honeysuckle. 

6.     Singletree 2019 Pinot Gris - $17.40 online or the winery’s store in Abbotsford, BC. This year the winery team blended two valleys of fruit. 75% of the fruit came from the winery’s Mt.Lehman vineyards while the other 25% comes from the Naramata bench vineyard. It has tropical flavours of pineapple, mango and lime. 

5 Local wines for Viognier Day

Happy International Viognier Day!

Here are 5 locally-made BC Viognier wines to help you celebrate.

Viognier is a full-bodied white wine that originated in Southern France, dating back to the Roman Empire. After almost becoming extinct in the 1960s, Viognier has made a comeback and is now widely enjoyed around the world.

With its softness and natural low acidity, Viognier pairs well with everything from seafood to spicy Asian food.

You will want to seek these out so you can compare and contrast:

1.     Singletree 2020 Viognier, $20.75 online or at the winery in Abbotsford, BC. Aromas of ginger, mango, rose. Flavours of tangerine, peach and honey. Off-dry stainless steel fermented.

2.   Narrative 2018 Viognier, $24 At Steamworks Liquor Store in Vancouver, BC. Oily and rich with deep tropical notes and a very lengthy finish.

3.     Evolve 2018 Viognier, $19.99 online or at Save-On-Foods. Aromas of peach, apricot, honeysuckle, with floral accents. Flavours of delicate stone fruit and light spices; juicy.

4.   Blasted Church 2020 Viognier, $20.75 online or at the winery in Okanagan Falls, BC. Tasting notes of stone fruits, tropical fruit, blossoms, and orange.

5.  TIME 2018 Viognier, $19.99 online or at Save-On-Foods. Aromas of pineapple, orange, apricot, citrus, and floral notes. Lush tropical flavours with coconut from oak barrels. Finishes with a long, textured mouthfeel.

TIME Family of Wines Reveals New Look with Release of 2020 Vintage

A new look for Evolve Cellars, McWatters Collection, and introducing Chronos

The last year and a half has changed us all and this is especially true for the team at TIME Family of Wines. The downtown Penticton winery was purchased by new owners Ron and Shelley Mayert and has undertaken several projects as well as a new look to set the tone for exciting times ahead.

TIME’s characteristic premium quality and attention to detail continues, with many new additions to the portfolio, including a new brand. TIME Family Wines is excited to introduce Chronos to their premium BC VQA portfolio. Chronos, aptly named after the Greek primordial god of time.

A new look for Evolve Cellars, Chronos and McWatters Collection

This collection of wines was created for lovers of pure Okanagan Terroir. Wine enthusiasts who value wines crafted with depth, complexity, and character. The Chronos line will include Chronos Chardonnay, Riesling, Rosé, Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and the red blend Ouroboros.

In addition to Chronos, Evolve Cellars has received a visual refresh that includes a light, casual aesthetic and two new wines, the white blend Spontaneity and the red blend Momento. All Evolve Cellars wines are supple with a zippy zing and offer the purest expressions of varietals to awaken the five senses into celebrations of every moment.

The McWatters Collection remains the legacy brand with a limited series of wines that reflect the philosophy of their namesake; Harry McWatters. These ultra-premium wines are as luxurious and refined as is their new packaging and appropriately include a tribute to Harry McWatters on each bottle. The new vintage will also include the addition of a White Meritage to the portfolio.

The brand refresh is revealed just as the 2020 wines are released in the tasting room and on shelves across the country. The 2020 vintage are the first wines fully crafted by winemaker Lynzee Schatz, who joined the TIME family in 2019. Schatz’s focus has been to elevate the character of each brand, enhancing their unique flavour profiles and authentic expression of the varietal.

In addition to new wines and a new look, TIME Family of Wines is expanding its physical space in the coming months with a new epicurean experience named Orolo, formerly TIME Kitchen. The expansion also includes two new private meeting and dining spaces; the PenMar and McWatters Legacy Suites. A rooftop patio like no other in the Okanagan will follow in 2022.

Finally, TIME Family of Wines is very excited to announce the opening of a satellite experience centre at The District Wine Village in Oliver, BC later this fall. The newly opened District Wine Village is the first true wine village in Canada. Located in the heart of the South Okanagan, the Village is surrounded by vineyards and home to 16 artisan producers including TIME Family of Wines.

This presents TIME Family of Wine enthusiasts with a four-season opportunity to meet, taste and enjoy local events and experiences.

“We felt that with everything our team has been through in the last two years, a brand refresh would be the final touch for the new phase at TIME Family of Wines,´ says Christa-Lee McWatters, general manager of TIME Family of Wines. “We hope the fans of TIME wines are excited about Chronos and that you all come to see our new space when Orolo and The District Village location open its doors. We are looking forward to what is to come!”

Six BC Wines for Global Drink Wine Day

Grab a glass of BC Wine and join the celebration!

Wine holidays can seem to be a silly thing but because of them, the wine-drinking community is able to share tips and inspirations. Follow the hashtag #DrinkWineDay and you’ll learn a whole deal about specific varietals, wine-producing regions and the latest popular sips from all over the world.

 Let’s join the tasting party with six delicious BC VQA wines:

1.     Blue Grouse Quill Rosé

Blue Grouse’s Quill Rosé is a unanimous hit. A complex, full flavoured wine produced with Gamay Noir and Pinot Noir from the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island and Oliver, Okanagan Valley. A beautiful mix of strawberry and rhubarb on the nose and fresh and lively palate with a savoury touch on the finish. Think about pairing this rosé with pizza, chicken, pasta or enjoy by itself. Available at the winery, online and on selected fine wine stores across BC. $21.99

2.     Singletree Siggy

Have you ever tried wines produced from Siegerrebe? Siggy is Singletree’s wine interpretation for this intriguing varietal that in German means ‘victory grape’. You will learn this is indeed a win. Siegerrebe (pronounced see-geh-Ray-buh) grows very well in climates like the Fraser Valley, just outside of Vancouver, and it turns into a wine that is rich and lush with soft acidity and floral aromatics. The delicious notes of peaches, pears and lychees make a great pairing for dishes like spicy curries or fish tacos. Available at the winery, online and in selected fine wine stores. $16.00

3.     Haywire Switchback Vineyard Pinot Gris

 A beautiful organic Pinot Gris that displays the best of Okanagan terroir. Haywire wines are produced with low intervention, attention to detail and represent some the best of natural wines being produced in British Columbia. But mostly importantly, it is delicious. This wine was naturally fermented and aged in concrete tanks for eight months and has a creamy mouthfeel with lively acidity and critic and herbal notes on the palate. Harvested in four separate batches in October, the estate-grown organic Pinot Gris was whole cluster pressed to concrete tanks where it was fermented using native yeasts. The wine went through full malolactic fermentation and was left on gross lees for 10 months. Available at the winery, online and in selected fine wine stores.  $26.90  

4.     Coolshanagh Chardonnay

This chardonnay is as special as the place it comes from. Grown on a small property in Naramata, where a stellar team of specialists, including renowned terroir consultant Pedro Parra, pointed out that the area was full of potential to grow outstanding grapes. And he was right: vintage after vintage Coolshanagh has been gathering accolade after accolade. This is one of the most special chardonnays in British Columbia, with elegant aromas of straw, green apple and lychee with a rich and layered texture. Available online and in selected fine wine stores. $360 (case of 12)

5.     TIME Cabernet Franc

A new release red from TIME Wines, home to a winemaking team that has been producing wines in the Okanagan Valley for more than 50 years. The tradition and proficiency shines through the glass as you sip this complex Cab Franc. Enjoy classic aromas of red berries and black cherry with hints of pepper and sage on palate as well as soft tannins with velvety texture. Open a bottle to enjoy with grilled meat or loaded burger. Available at the winery, online or where fine wines are sold. $34.99

6.     Oliver Twist Cherry Baby Port-Style

Ready for dessert? Then you’ll fall in love with Cherry Baby. A dessert wine in Port Style that elevates the end of a special meal. This is a wine with luscious flavours of ripe dates, toasty pecans, dark chocolate and lingering black cherry, that turns into a fantastic pair for black forest cake when served slightly chilled at around 16C. Available at the winery and online. $29 (375ml)

We don’t usually need an excuse to open a bottle of wine, but on February 18th, we join our fellow wine lovers across the globe in celebration of Global Drink Wine Day with a glass in hand.

Try one of these wines and tag us @townhallbrands and let us know how you enjoy!

The Ultimate Last-minute Thanksgiving Guide for Foodies and BC Wine Lovers

Ready or not, fall is here! That means it is time to dust off the winter coat, find the woolen socks that have moved to the back of the drawer, and prepare for Thanksgiving.

Celebrations are around the corner, so it’s time to figure out who’s doing the cooking, what is going to the served, and which wine will pair well with turkey! We’ve gathered the best Thanksgiving tips from wine writers, and food and lifestyle specialists to cure any seasonal concerns.

1.    Turkey DOs and DONT’s by Angie Quaale

There’s no Thanksgiving without a well-prepared turkey and stuffing. Angie Quaale, seasonal food expert, owner of Well-Seasoned Gourmet Food Store and turkey lover will guide home cooks through the whole process of choosing a bird, preparing, stuffing, cooking and cleaning up the mess after. According to her, it is very important to learn how to prepare the bird correctly otherwise there can be a risk of cross contamination with other things in the kitchen. 

2.    Decorating a Thanksgiving Table without breaking the bank

This is the perfect opportunity to set a beautiful table for your family and loved ones, and it does not necessarily mean spending hundreds of dollars to do it! Natalie Langston, lifestyle specialist has great ideas that will make your table IG-worthy: fresh seasonal flowers, candles, a simple and elegant printed menu, and delicious and affordable Evolve Cellars wines.

With the turkey in the oven and the table set, it’s time to think about the beverages. Pairing a tender and juicy turkey or glazed ham with wine is not as hard as it seems. There are a number of varieties that offer a flavour profile that will match well with both. From rich whites to fruit-forward reds, BC wine has so many options to choose from, and buying local has never been easier. British Columbia is also producing amazing sparkling wines and Chardonnays that will hit the mark for this year’s celebration.

3.    Thanksgiving Toast with BC Bubbly

To start the party, pop the cork of a tasty sparkling wine. If wine lovers are feeling extra confident, Tim Pawsey even gives tips on how to saber the bottle: chill it in ice and hit at the exact spot for the correct cut, but make sure to do it outside to minimize the mess. Among the great recommendations in his article, some highlights are the 2018 TIME Brut from Time Winery in Penticton, the 2017 Free Form Ancient Method and 2016 Haywire The Bub from Okanagan Crush Pad in Summerland, the 2016 Merryfield from Singletree in the Fraser Valley and Naramata, and the 2014 Paula Sparkling from Blue Grouse Estate Winery on Vancouver Island.

4.    Thinking about Chardonnay?

10 Chardonnays to pair with Thanksgiving Turkey

A few BC Wines to celebrate with for Thanksgiving

Perhaps the most common pairing for Thanksgiving turkey is white wine, most specifically Chardonnay. A herb crusted bird pairs well with the buttery taste of most oak aged Chards, and other more fruit-forward wines offer crisp flavours. Wineries in BC are offering high quality Chardonnay with distinct flavour profiles that can please every palate. In the two round ups above, Jennifer Schell and Karl Kliparchuk recommend a stellar line up for this weekend’s celebration. Some of the best bets include TIME Winery’s 2014 Chardonnay from Penticton and the 2016 Coolshanagh Chardonnay from Naramata.

We hope you give some of these suggestions a try, and tag @townhallbrands in social media. We’d love to see how your Thanksgiving is going!

We wish everyone a safe and joyful celebration.

Happy Thanksgiving!

TIME Winery Opens in Downtown Penticton

Graham Pierce joins team as director of winemaking

Photo Library: Photos of TIME Winery and winemaking team available via Dropbox.

NOTE TO THE READER: At the time of this announcement, the winery is an inspection away from opening. The plan is to open this weekend, subject to the final occupancy permit.

It is best to call the winery 236-422-2556 ext 106, or check its social media channels @timewinery for the most up to date information. 

#

[Penticton, BC] TIME Winery announces the soft opening of its winery in downtown Penticton at 361 Martin St. A grand opening of TIME Winery will take place in late 2018 following harvest.

During the soft opening period, chef AK Campbell, executive winery chef, will lead the culinary program to offer a selection of daily appetizers, features, and drink options.

TIME Winery is owned by ENCORE Vineyards, and is the sister winery to Evolve Cellars and the McWatters Collection label. To coincide with the opening of TIME Winery the ENCORE Vineyard team announces the appointment of Graham Pierce as director of winemaking.

With more than a decade of experience producing award-winning wines in the Okanagan, Pierce is a local British Columbian who grew up in Horseshoe Bay and received his winemaking and viticulture education from the Okanagan College in Penticton.

Prior to joining the team at ENCORE Vineyards, Pierce worked at Black Hills Estate Winery in Oliver, BC, where he has been for the past ten years, creating a strong lineup of wines including the premium Nota Bene. Before that he was at Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery and before that, a chef at Kelowna's Summerhill Pyramid Winery. 

Pierce's in-depth understanding of the Okanagan wine region and extensive winery operation knowledge, combined with his viticulture and winemaking experience, allows him to maximize the freshness of hand-picked and harvested grapes to create aromatic whites and balanced, big reds that truly express the terroir of BC.

At ENCORE Vineyards, Pierce is supported in the winemaking duties by Nadine Allander, who has been recently promoted from assistant winemaker to the position of winemaker.

"We have been industry friends with Graham for many years," says Harry McWatters, CEO of ENCORE Vineyards. 

"It is great to have him join our team. His pedigree of winemaking and knowledge in handling Okanagan fruits will allow Evolve Cellars, McWatters, and TIME Winery to continue making exceptional BC VQA certified wines that is a reflection of the land where the grapes are grown and the talented people who craft them."

Pierce is also enthused by the new role. "I look forward to working with this pioneering, yet continually-innovating family team," states Pierce. 

"The fun challenge will be to oversee and make a range of wines; from fruit-forward, juicy Evolve Cellars wines, to the complex and textured wines of TIME Winery and the McWatters Collection. After crafting still wines for so many years, I am most excited about the chance to create my first small batch sparkling wine."

TIME Winery welcomes Graham Pierce as director of winemaker and Nadine Allander as winemaker. Credit: Chris Stenberg

---

About TIME Winery:

While the literal definition of TIME may be elusive, it is an observed phenomenon which allows us to honour key moments in our shared journey through life. With 50 vintages of experience in the South Okanagan, TIME Winery is committed to creating wines that express the unique flavours of Okanagan wine country. 

Built within a revitalized historic theatre in downtown Penticton, the heart of South Okanagan wine country, the new TIME Winery offers a tasting bar, lounge and intimate outdoor patio for guests to enjoy. TIME Winery's full kitchen and event space provide a unique venue for your next public or private event.
 

About ENCORE Vineyards:

ENCORE Vineyards., a progressive Okanagan-based company, is home to British Columbia (BC) wine brands including TIME Winery, Evolve Cellars and McWatters Collection.

ENCORE Vineyards Ltd. has amassed an impressive team, poised to help define the next generation of BC wine and winemaking via its production centre in the Okanagan Valley. The company is led by president and CEO Harry McWatters, a 50-vintage pioneer of the modern British Columbia wine industry, with daughter Christa-Lee McWatters-Bond (sales and marketing director), and son Darren McWatters (logistics and operations) who are each armed with lifelong wine industry experience and insight. Graham Pierce is the group's director of winemaking, supported by winemaker Nadine Allander, and talented hospitality and sales teams. See more on each winery at encorevineyards.ca

TIME Winery Welcomes Executive Chef, AK Campbell

Chef AK shares preview of menu in advance of winery opening

[Penticton, BC] TIME Winery is pleased to announce the appointment of chef, Alexander Keith Campbell (chef AK). As the newest creative force behind TIME Winery, chef AK oversees the small plate program at the highly-anticipated downtown Penticton location, along with the culinary program at Evolve Cellars. 

With more than 15 years of experience in the kitchen, chef AK's humble culinary adventure began back home in Nova Scotia, where he spent much of his time in the kitchen with his parents and grandmother.

TIME Winery welcomes chef Alexander Keith Campbell (chef AK).

After graduating from the Culinary Arts Program at the Culinary Institute of Canada in Charlottetown PEI, chef AK moved west to pursue his love of cooking. With his talents and passion, chef AK led culinary teams in boutique hotels and ski lodges such as the Naramata Heritage Inn and Spa, Truffle Pigs Bistro & Lodge, and Heather Mountain Lodge Resort. Prior to joining TIME Winery, chef AK was assistant director of culinary operations for Vintage Hospitality.

Chef AK's passion and his charismatic personality shines beyond his food. He has a full sleeve tattoo that consists of pinup girls in chef clothes paired with bountiful fruits, vegetables, eggs and bacon. This speaks to the dedication and wit that chef AK has put into his career and passion. 

"My culinary approach is simple. I cook food that is big on flavour, bold, and fun. However, the most important is that no matter what I prepare, the experience that I deliver for guests will be one that I want to receive." shares chef AK.

At TIME Winery, chef AK will collaborate with Harry McWatters and Christa-Lee McWatters to develop pairings on both winery menus that achieve a sense of balance and harmony, while ensuring both the wine and food enhance one another to showcase the best components of each.  

"TIME Winery could profoundly change the food scene in Penticton. I'm excited to work with the team because there is a unified vision and a heritage of quality and dedication that I want to be a part of."

With that in mind, chef AK shares a sneak peek of what you can expect on the menu at the new TIME Winery, set to open in downtown Penticton this summer. 

"Grab a glass of wine and order one of the 'breads and boards' which consist of local and international cheeses, breads, charcuterie and antipasti. If you like variety, try a selection of small plates, such as Chickpea Frites with charred onion salt, basil and garlic yogurt sauce; or a short rib hush puppy complete with roast corn batter and a spicy tomato jam."

With construction nearing completion, the TIME Winery and kitchen is counting down to its opening. Follow TIME Winery on Facebook for exact opening date. 

About TIME Winery:

While the literal definition of TIME may be elusive, it is an observed phenomenon which allows us to honour key moments in our shared journey through life. With 50 vintages of experience in the South Okanagan, the team knows that our unique terroir can offer the right wine to celebrate any occasion. TIME Winery is committed to creating wines that express the unique flavours of Okanagan wine country. 

Built within a revitalized historic theatre in downtown Penticton, the heart of South Okanagan wine country, the new TIME Winery opens in 2018.

Sip the latest vintages, which offer expressive and elegant flavours of Okanagan terroir while you explore the inner workings of a fully-functional winery. Complete the experience at the tasting bar and lounge, or with your guests on the intimate outdoor patio. TIME Winery's full kitchen and event space provide a unique venue for your next public or private event.

For more information, visit timewinery.com. 

It’s Merlot Day! #internationalmerlotday

By Leeann Froese

Since the runaway hit movie Sideways came out in 2004, where the character Miles held nothing back in his hatred of Merlot, this noble varietal has been struggling to find its place once again, after previous years enjoying a huge wave of popularity.

Known for being soft, ripe and elegant, most Merlot wines are easy-drinking wines that can be enjoyed on their own or with food. Merlot is a very approachable grape with a medium to full-bodied palate presence.

Aside from being a very reliable standalone varietal wine, Merlot is commonly used by winemakers to blend into other red wines, as it gives a nice fruity softness that is sometimes required to even out a blend.

According to the British Columbia Wine Institute, by acreage planted, Merlot is the number one red wine varietal planted in BC. We are proud to work with BC winery clients that make delicious Merlot (or Merlot blended) wines for you to enjoy.

Evolve Cellars

2016 Cabernet Merlot

Soft, supple, and complex mouth-filling flavours of plum, cherry, and wild red berry dominate from start to finish.

$19.99

Pipe’ Dreams

2015 Merlot

Ripe and rich with aromas of dark chocolate, vanillin oak, sun ripened plum and black cherry along with a refreshing note of dried wild herbs in the background.

$22.02

Pipe’ Dreams

2014 Reserve Merlot

Lush black cherry, dried plum, fig and cocoa, a full body, and a lingering finish.

$41.40

TIME Winery

2016 Cabernet Merlot (Calgary Flames)

A spicy nose with cassis and cedar and a palate filled with plum, cherry, and wild red berry.

$19.99

What do you think of Merlot? Are you like Miles in Sideways who says ‘no effing way’? Or are you ‘fill my glass, please'?

4 BC Wineries to Discover at the Vancouver International Wine Festival

4 BC WINERIES TO DISCOVER The wine world convenes February 11-19 for the Vancouver International Wine Festival.

In 2017, the wine world celebrates Canada in its 150th year of Confederation. Meet BC wine pioneers and stars that continue to shape the industry and taste their amazing wines.

DOWNLOAD a PDF: Four BC Wineries to Discover at VIWF

3 Story Starters

1. Industry disruptors, who carve a path for BC wine, then and now Christine Coletta | Stephen Cipes | Harry McWatters

2. Trends in BC Wine Sparkling Wine | Organic | On site experiences | City Winery

3. Organic Okanagan Stephen Cipes' 2020 vision - great plans for the health of the Okanagan Valley

Meet the wineries...

1) Haywire 

Discover The ‘New’ Okanagan okanagancrushpad.com | @Haywirewine | @OKCrushPad

Industry icon Christine Coletta & husband Steve Lornie built Canada’s first custom-crush facility on Switchback Organic Vineyard. With the input of lauded international consultants Alberto Antonini and Pedro Parra, winemaker Matt Dumayne is turning heads and garnering acclaim for his natural wines made using state-of-the-art concrete tanks, native yeast and minimal additives. With the help of Pedro, the team is working hard to shape a new direction by understanding terroir.

• Natural wines that celebrate the land
• Made at Canada’s first custom-crush facility
• Award-winning leaders in innovation for BC wine
• Rock star team with international consultants who bring global perspective to Okanagan terroir.

Talk to: Christine Coletta – co-owner, one of Canada’s most astute wine marketers Matt Dumayne – winemaker Pedro Parra – internationally–lauded terroir expert

2) Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Leading the Organic Movement summerhill.bc.ca | @SummerhillWine

Summerhill Pyramid Winery has led the BC organic movement since the Cipes family purchased the vineyard in 1986. The winery was certified organic in 2007, with biodynamic certification for its Kelowna vineyard following in 2012. Winning national and international awards for its pyramid-aged wines, Summerhill is Canada’s foremost producer of sparkling wine and is BC’s most visited winery. A tireless change maker, founder Stephen Cipes is at the helm of the Okanagan 2020 initiative to transition the entire valley to 100% organic by the year 2020.

• Committed to organic and biodynamic winemaking since 1986
• Aims to transition to Organic Okanagan by 2020
• Pyramid cellar-aged wines
• Known globally for award winning sparkling wines

Talk to: Stephen Cipes - founder Ezra Cipes - CEO and a BC wine leader Eric von Krosigk - winemaker

3) Evolve Cellars

Welcoming Wine Country with Celebrational Approachability evolvecellars.com | @EvolveCellars

Evolve Cellars is a celebration of BC’s next generation, Christa-Lee McWatters Bond, daughter of industry pioneer, and chair of the BC Wine Institute, leads Evolve Cellars in embracing the traditions of BC wine industry to create today’s winery experience. Whether it’s a picnic on the sun-drenched patios with lakefront view or an onsite meal at E Restaurant, Evolve Cellars will leave you with an experiential journey to Okanagan Wine Country. Start yours with a glass of its approachable and affordable wines.

• Bright, delicious, approachable and affordable BC wines that celebrate BC terroir.
• An experiential journey to Okanagan Wine Country.
• Breathtaking lakefront view and onsite E Restaurant.

Talk to: Christa-Lee McWatters-Bond – oversees the winery; chair of the BC Wine Institute Nadine Allander – winemaker Tristan MacLaggan – hospitality director

4) TIME Winery

Complete Winery Experience in Downtown Penticton timewinery.com | @TimeWinery

Led by president and CEO Harry McWatters, a 50-year veteran of the British Columbia wine industry. Harry has done many firsts in his career: founding the BC Wine Institute, introducing VQA to BC, and bringing Meritage to Canada, for a few. Throughout his career, he has celebrated that winemaking is about time and place. Now the TIME is to innovate and do another “first”: a heritage theatre is being revitalized into a fully-functional winery and experience centre in downtown Penticton.

• Winery home of Harry McWatters, pioneer of BC wine industry since 1967 — this year marks his 50th vintage!
• Fully operational winery in the heart of downtown Penticton, in the former Penmar theatre.
• Makers of Meritage wines.

Talk to: Harry McWatters – president, grandfather of the industry Lawrence Buhler – winemaker

These are only a few ideas; let us help you with stories.

To arrange interviews with the winery principals, for images and more information, please email Genevieve Dufresne or Amy Chen or call the Town Hall Brands office at 604-321-3295

2016 BC Grape Harvest In Full Swing

  Would you like images, an interview, or to learn more? Contact Sujinder Juneja for assistance.

According to the BC Wine Institute (BCWI), BC’s cool-climate grape crop is on track for another excellent vintage this year. Hot and dry conditions in the spring led to the earliest bud break on record and the earliest harvest ever for some wineries in the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island and the Okanagan. The low average temperatures and high rainfall allowed BC grapes to have more time to ripen on the vine and to accumulate flavour and aromatic compounds. This contributes to wines that are fresh, complex and balanced with higher acidity that make them versatile food pairings.

On Vancouver Island

Bailey Williamson, winemaker for Blue Grouse Estate Winery in Duncan on Vancouver Island, is expecting another excellent harvest at the Cowichan Valley estate. A strong growing season in April and May, followed by a cooler June and July than the previous year, led to an elongated flowering and fruit set cycle and allowed the grapes to mature and ripen to classic levels. The Blue Grouse harvest started on September 10, beginning with the popular Siegerrebe, an aromatic white varietal which tends to ripen earliest. After that, there will be a break in harvest until the end of September, when the rest of the grapes will be harvested in earnest. Compared to all the vintages since 2012, this year’s harvest started within a week of normal.

In the Fraser Valley

Conditions on the mainland were similar to Vancouver Island. Andrew Etsell, GM and viticulturist of Singletree Winery in Abbotsford notes that with the warm and dry August, the grapes developed beautiful flavours with balanced acids and sugars. Singletree began its harvest on August 25 – one full week earlier than 2015, and the winery’s earliest harvest on record. “We started with our Siegerrebe, which is evolving into one of our most popular wines,” Andrew shares. “We’re also keeping a close eye on our estate Pinot Noir, which we have just harvested for our first-ever estate sparkling wine. Other estate varietals, such as our Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner and Sauvignon Blanc, will follow after that. This year’s harvest will not yield as much fruit as 2015, yet the fruit will be clean and very high quality."

In the Okanagan - Naramata Bench

After an unseasonably warm spring, followed by an early summer, Serendipity Winery’s Katie O’Kell was concerned that the harvest would take place much earlier than normal at her estate Naramata vineyard. However, the cooler, wetter weather moved in, which allowed the grapes to mature a more moderate pace.

Serendipity’s harvest started on August 29 with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and continued on August 31 with Viognier. With a dry and cool climate, the phenolics (flavour and aromatic compounds) will eventually catch up to the brix (a measure of potential alcohol) that is currently sitting in the low 20s.

Okanagan – South

Likewise, Lawrence Buhler, director of winemaking for ENCORE Vineyards, which produces wines under the TIME Winery, Evolve Cellars and McWatters Collection labels, is also in the middle of an active harvest. Compared to last year, Buhler and his winemaking team saw a two-day early start to the season on August 17. Harvest has almost been completed for the still whites, with additional harvests to take place in the next two to four weeks for red varietals.

Regarding the balance of the 2016 harvest, Lawrence says the reds are maturing well and the cooler weather is excellent for proper fruit development and sugar accumulation in the berries.

Harry McWatters, president and CEO of ENCORE Vineyards said recently to Global Television, “we had record-breaking temperatures in April and the earliest bud break that I’ve seen in my history in British Columbia. This is my 49th vintage in the wine business and I’ve never seen a harvest this early. What it does is even in the fringe areas, where the grower may be pushing their limit as far as what they’re growing or the amount of crop they’ve got, it gives them a bit bigger window to mature that fruit to its optimum level. It’s a good thing.”

Indeed it is, Harry. And although the wineries – from Vancouver Island to the Fraser Valley to the Okanagan – are right in the middle of an exciting harvest, we already can’t wait to taste the finished wines starting next spring.

Town Hall Brands: Specializing in wine, food and hospitality

Town Hall Brands, based in Vancouver BC, build brands and promotes them. We offer marketing strategy, graphic design, packaging, promotional campaigns and PR, and social media outreach.

Can we help you with a story? If it comes to a story in need in wine, we can help or send you to the right place.

Meet Dino Pascoa #withTownHall

By Leeann Froese It’s a new week to introduce you to one of the fabulous personalities in the world #withTownHall!

This does not mean they work as part of our team, or are our client (although sometimes they are).

We just interact with so many amazing people that we want to expand networks and introduce them to you, and you to them. This week #withTownHall, we introduce you to Dino Pascoa.

After more than 20 years in the restaurant business Dino joined the wine industry in 2007 and trained through the ISG Sommelier certification as he made the move to sell wine from all over the world. He is a sales representative with Vancouver-based agency The Wine List.

Next year Dino will celebrate his 10th year in wine sales. Over the past decade he has proven his expertise in wine, food and service, and has a strong reputation for loyalty and a desire to go above and beyond for his customers. He prides himself on the solid relationships he has created.

We are pleased to work with Dino via our client ENCORE Vineyards, parent to Evolve Cellars, McWatters Collection and TIME Winery.

A side note about these wineries - their wines are featured all weekend at the 10th Anniversary of the Chefs' Table Society of BC Spot Prawn Festival.

With all of that said about Dino, will you please help us give a big hello to him?

Leave a comment below – or go give this post a like or share on Facebook or Twitter