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!

Blue Grouse Estate Winery Offers Bed & Bottle Retreat

Client News Grouse House now open for reservations

Blue Grouse Estate Winery announces the highly-anticipated opening of Grouse House, an exclusive 'Bed & Bottle' retreat for wine lovers, exquisitely set within the heart of the historic estate vineyard.

Located within minutes from the quaint seaside community of Cowichan Bay and less than an hour from downtown Victoria, the Cowichan Valley wine experience has never been better.

The two-bedroom suite sleeps four, making it ideal for couples or a small family. A modern kitchen is the perfect place to create meals made from the treasures picked up at the Duncan Farmers Market. The panoramic outdoor patio space offers a barbecue and a place to lounge while enjoying a complimentary bottle of wine from Blue Grouse Estate Winery.

Other amenities include luxurious linens and towels, a gas fireplace, air-conditioning and complimentary WiFi. The Grouse House is perfect for wedding and honeymoon stays, family adventures, or small corporate retreats. Escape today and enjoy the very best that Island wine country has to offer.

For available dates and rates, email stay@bluegrouse.ca

Book online at www.vrbo.com/997490

Photos of the Grouse House for media found here.

About Blue Grouse Estate Winery:

Family-owned, sustainably-farmed and award-winning, Blue Grouse Estate Winery is located in Duncan, in the heart of the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island. The winery and surrounding vineyards are a sought after destination not only for sampling the winery's portfolio of award-winning wines, but also for evens, picnics, and family adventures.

The inspired winery facility was but with many sustainable elements including locally-sourced construction materials, the use of geothermal energy, onsite water collection and treatment, as well as other features that reduce energy consumption.

The Blue Grouse tasting room is open year round with season hours. For the hours when you plan your visit, visit bluegrouse.ca.

If you have any additional questions about Grouse House, please feel free to contact us at Town Hall Brands. 

Mirabel Pinot Noir "of wondrous beauty" publicly launched

Note from Leeann Froese:

If you follow us on social media, you will note that our design team has been working on a beautiful new label with an illustration from Darrell Underschultz, for the Reimers, a lovely Kelowna couple, for their new Mirabel Vineyards Pinot Noir.

This limited release Pinot made by Matt Dumayne is both bold and silky at the same time, and with only a few cases made, is sure to go quickly.

We are very proud to also handle the publicity for this new wine, and here is the official press release.

Mirabel Vineyards Announces Debut Release Reimer Family focused on terroir-driven Pinot Noir

Doug and Dawn Reimer are pleased to launch their inaugural Mirabel Vineyards wine with the release of the 2015 Pinot Noir, sourced exclusively from their South East Kelowna hilltop estate and vineyard overlooking the Okanagan Valley.

Mirabel, meaning "of wondrous beauty", perfectly represents the Reimer family's stunning South East Kelowna hilltop estate and vineyard overlooking the beautiful Okanagan Valley.

The sustainably-farmed Reimer Family Vineyard was planted in 2006 on a steep hill with both southwesterly and northwesterly aspects. Grapes were planted at high elevations over complex soils. Analysis of the terroir suggested the estate was best planted to specific clones of Pinot Noir, to be blended together for optimum colour, flavour, acidity, tannin and length. The yield is cropped at a low 2.5 tons per acre and harvested by hand. One-and-a-half acres of Chardonnay will be planted this spring.

The family's commitment to quality is realized with this first vintage release of 237 cases of a luscious, elegant, sustainably-grown Pinot Noir.

The 2015 Mirabel Pinot Noir ($70.00 for 750ml, $160 for 1500ml Magnum) was aged 11 months exclusively in French oak (30% new). Gentle handling, including gravity transfer from barrel to bottle, helped to maintain the subtle texture, rich fruit, soft spice and generous length. As the Reimers do not yet have a winery, this wine was made at Okanagan Crush Pad by chief winemaker Matt Dumayne.

Mirabel Vineyards was founded through Doug and Dawn's shared love of travel, and the belief that the creation and sharing of wonderful food and incredible wine is one of life's greatest joys. Following a vacation to the Okanagan in 2004, the couple purchased an exclusive piece of property that was ideal for growing grapes. The fruit was previously sold to other wineries, but it will now be reserved for the Mirabel Vineyards label.

Initial praise for the Pinot Noir includes a review from noted BC wine authority John Schreiner, who described it as having "great purity of fruit". A saignée-method Pinot Noir Rosé and a Chardonnay will be released later this year. 

"We believe that what is in the bottle is more than just wine; it is a place and time; a snapshot of the vineyard. We invite you to join us, as we pursue our dream." - Doug and Dawn

Those seeking access to these limited-production wines are invited to sign up at mirabelvineyards.com.

If you are a member of the trade seeking an allocation, please contact info@mirabelvineyards.com.

For media, or anyone who wants to know more about the Mirabel Vineyards story, download the information kit HERE.

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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

So your child has collected too many treats...

By: Amy Chen As the clock strikes midnight on November 1st, we said goodbye to Halloween 2016 and hello to the piles of chocolates and candies that your child has collected in the few hours of trick-or-treating.

Instead of trying to give away the mountains of Halloween treats to everyone in the office or anyone that you see in the next few months, why not turn it into a fun #WineWednesday pairing!

Yes, candies and chocolates paired with wine.

It's inexpensive and fun. Everyone will love you and actually accept your leftover treats. It'll also save you from the headache of dealing with your child's sugar-high or melt-down from discovering that you have secretly taken from their stash of treats. It's a win-win for all.

If you're (un)lucky enough to not have piles of treats at home or a coworker who has brought in a stash of Halloween treats (secretly taken from their child), there is still time for you to head over to your local grocery store and stock up on those heavily discounted candies and chocolates.

Here's our suggestion of chocolate and candy pairings but feel free to experiment and let us know what pairs well or not.

• Fruity candies- Such as Skittles, Starburst
  • Light-bodied red wines with ripe red-berry fruits and a hint of earthiness pairs well with any candy that has a fruity and tangy aroma. It's a sweet crowd-pleaser!
    • Blue Grouse Estate Pinot Noir 2014- $26.00
    • Haywire Pinot Noir 2014- $26.90

• Nutty chocolate- Such as Aero, Coffee Crisp
  • Nutty chocolate and sparkling wine always make a great pairing! The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the chocolate leaving a warm and nutty flavour that is not too sweet. When in doubt, just match the bubbles (from your wine) with the bubbles (in your Aero).
    • Evolve Cellars Effervescence- $19.99
    • Evolve Cellars Effervescence Pink- $19.99
    • Haywire The Bub 2014- $29.90
    • Serendipity Sparkling Truth- $50.00

• Sour candies- Such as Maynards' Fuzzy Peach, Sour Patch Kids
  • The fresh, clean and stone fruit aromas of BC Riesling complements with sour candies. The Riesling typically reduces the perception of sourness and leaves a sweet acidity taste.
    • Evolve Cellars Riesling 2015- $16.99
    • Haywire Pinot Gris Switchback 2014- $24.90
    • Narrative Riesling 2015- $22.90

• Sugar coated chocolate- Such as Smarties and M&Ms
  • Pair sweeter chocolates, especially ones that are sugar-coated, with reds such as Cabernet Franc, for a classic aroma with firm but approachable tannins to balance off the sweetness.
    • TIME Cabernet Franc 2014- $19.99

Leave a comment below or tweet us your pairing @TownHallBrands, using the hashtag #WithTownHall.

Five Reasons to Love Okanagan Crush Pad Winery

Okanagan Crush Pad is Five today!

1. Summerland

This winery is located in beautiful Summerland, heart of the Okanagan Valley, and is one of the Bottleneck Drive wineries. The surrounding views are breathtaking and the hospitality and community are so welcoming in this small town.

2. Respecting history to make wines of today

Since constructing its state-of-the-art winemaking facility and visitor center in 2011, Okanagan Crush Pad Winery has been regarded as one of the most innovative wineries in Canada. One of these reasons is because of its return to yesterday's wine making techniques using the science and knowledge of today. The use of concrete tanks and clay amphorae really work to bring out the terroir of their Haywire and Narrative wines, which personify where they are grown.

3. International insights

The Okanagan Crush Pad Winery team has pulled in consulting minds from Alberto Antonini and Pedro Parra, who have used their global perspective to help the Okanagan Valley shine.

4. For the love of the earth and all of its animals

Switchback Vineyard, where Okanagan Crush Pad Winery is located, is certified organic. Garnet Valley Ranch, where vines are grown for Okanagan Crush Pad Winery, is also organic from day one. There are animals onsite, including chickens, ducks, dogs, sheep, cows, worms and bees, which help to keep the biodiversity alive.

5. A dream team

Owners Christine Coletta and Steve Lornie have assembled an amazing team around them: Christine, Steve, David, Alison, Matt, Julian, Jordan, Megan, Tyler, Theo, Duncan, Kristina, Mike, Lisa, Rebecca, Amy, Rebeka, Paula, Alberto, Pedro, and many more, and we are proud to be part of it!

Congratulations to the entire team at Okanagan Crush Pad Winery on your fifth birthday; we are so proud of all of you.

BCWI Colour 2016

British Columbia Wine Institute's Fall VQA Tasting, Colour, is on the horizon. An event for trade and media to mingle with winery principals and winemakers while tasting new releases. Later on, at "ChefmeetsGrape" the public will be able to taste the new vintages, accompanying delicious food pairings from hot restaurants.

TRADE: In order to plan your strategy for tasting your way through the day, Town Hall Brands is going to give you the inside scoop on each of our PR clients that are attending and what you can taste from them.

Since the tasting will be organized alphabetically (we hope), let's start at the top:

Evolve Cellars

Evolve Cellars, located in Summerland, offers a lineup of wines that are fruit-forward and approachable.  Believing every choice has intention Evolve encourages everyone to #raiseaglassto those who inspire them.

Principals attending: Christa-Lee McWatters-Bond, director of sales and marketing

Wines being poured:

• Pink Effervescence - NEW bubbles!
• Effervescence - NEW bubbles!
• Pinot Blanc 2015
• Riesling 2015
• Cabernet Merlot 2015

Okanagan Crush Pad

Located in Summerland, Okanagan Crush Pad is home to Haywire and Narrative Wines. The winery team's aim is to produce distinct, terroir-focused super-premium wines from the Okanagan Valley.

Principal attending: Christine Coletta, owner

Wines being poured:

• Haywire Switchback Vineyard Pinot Gris 2014
• Haywire Canyonview Pinot Noir 2013
• Narrative XC Method NV
• Narrative Rosé 2015

Serendipity Winery

Nestled among the rolling hills of the picturesque Naramata Bench, a visit to Serendipity is about discovery, surprise and warmth. The journey began in 2005 following a serendipitous turn in the road made by owner Judy Kingston, and continues with each new vintage of wines crafted to be paired with food and shared with loved ones. Judy, a former lawyer, brings her smarts and wit to the wines and their labels. Each bottle has a story.

Principal attending: Judy Kingston, owner

Wines being poured:

• Next Step 2012
• Sauvignon Blanc 2015
• Rosé 2015

TIME Winery

Wine making is about time and place, and that’s what TIME Winery proves with each new vintage. As what will be Penticton's first urban winery, spearheaded by industry pioneer and icon Harry McWatters, these wines are complex yet approachable.

Principal attending: Harry McWatters, owner

Wines being poured:

• Cabernet Franc 2014
• Meritage (white) 2014
• Meritage 2013
• McWatters Collection Chardonnay 2013

These applauded BC wines call for an Encore!

Hot Client News!

We're taking a moment heading into the long weekend to #raiseaglassto one of our amazing clients and their winemaker Lawrence Buhler. The results of the NorthWest Wine Summit are in and it's safe to say that ENCORE Vineyards, parent company of Evolve Cellars, McWatters Collection and TIME Winery, and their winemaker deserve a round of applause for their recent landslide of awards.

The Superlative Awards

"Best" Category - Evolve Cellars Riesling 2015

Jerry Mead Awards:

Best Value Wines: Evolve Cellars Rosé 2015, Evolve Cellars Riesling 2015

Gold

Evolve Cellars

• Riesling 2015
• Rosé (Merlot & Pinot Blanc) 2015

McWatters Collection

• "HMC" Chardonnay 2013

TIME Winery

• Meritage (39% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc) 2013

Silver

Evolve Cellars

• Gewürztraminer 2015

McWatters Collection

• “Meritage” 60% Cabernet Sauvignon (three clones) 20% Merlot (two clones), & 12% Cabernet Franc (one clone) 2012

TIME Winery

• Cabernet Franc 2014
• Chardonnay 2013
• Meritage (white blend: 68% Sauvignon Blanc, 32% Sémillon) 2014

Bronze

Evolve Cellars

• Cabernet Merlot 2014
• Pinot Blanc 2014
• Pinot Gris 2015
• Sauvignon Blanc 2014

ENCORE Vineyards Ltd., is a progressive Okanagan-based company, and home to TIME Winery, Evolve Cellars, and McWatters Collection.

The ENCORE team is led by president and CEO Harry McWatters, a 49-year veteran of the British Columbia wine industry. Christa-Lee McWatters-Bond is the ENCORE director of sales and marketing, offering lifelong wine industry insight. Lawrence Buhler is ENCORE’s director of winemaking, who has experienced more than 16 vintages in Ontario, British Columbia, Chile, Argentina, and Australia. He will oversee the company’s growing portfolio of premium British Columbia wines.

Congratulations winemaker Lawrence; the Town Hall Brands team awaits your encore!

Okanagan Crush Pad partners with PNE Prize Home Lottery

Okanagan Crush Pad is proud to partner with the PNE Prize Home Lottery to raise funds for variety of non-profit programs. This year’s Grand Prize Home features one of the biggest Prize Homes yet, with a large open concept and patio space perfect for entertaining. It is adorned with stylish furniture, modern appliances, an outdoor hot tub and sauna and a floor-to-ceiling wine cooler.

This West Coast modern home will be perched on a breathtaking lake view property right on the Naramata Bench, looking across Okanagan Lake to Summerland.

How fitting that Okanagan Crush Pad, a Summerland winery, located on a 10-acre Switchback Organic Vineyard, is playing a role in the grand prize package. The winner and new neighbour will receive a personalized VIP tour and tasting at the winery to welcome them to the community and give them a chance to fill their wine cooler.

In Summerland, the winner will get a chance to enjoy a unique winery experience. At Okanagan Crush Pad, a spectacular guest center and private upstairs tasting lounge are built into the heart of the winery, offering an in-depth view into the art of winemaking. Visitors wander past large concrete tanks, clay amphorae, sparkling wine cages, barrels and a small still, to learn how vineyard inspired natural wine and spirits are made. Here time-honoured, generations-old winemaking techniques are married with the most advanced technology with stunning results.

And the wines: the critically-acclaimed Haywire and Narrative wines celebrate the distinctive beauty and exceptional growing region.

The PNE is on now until September 6 and the exhibition’s crowd favourite has people dreaming of what life would be like if their winnings swept them away to the rich landscape of valley vineyards and desert hills of the Okanagan.

Tickets can be bought at the fair, or onsite here.

Naramata Winemaker Brings International Experience To BC

Note:Katie O'Kell is available for interviews. To schedule, please contact Sujinder Juneja | 604-367-6745 .

Serendipity Winery’s Katie O’Kell has just returned from a three-month stage at New Zealand’s ultra-modern Delegat Wine Estate, where she worked harvest for the 2016 vintage. This new winemaking experience falls on the heels of O’Kell earning her winemaking certificate from UC Davis in California, where she received an impressive 100% on her final exam. O’Kell brings this newly-acquired knowledge and experience to the cellar at her family-owned, Naramata-based winery.

In Bloom

Becoming a winemaker was not O’Kell’s first career choice, but this role has evolved naturally since her mother Judy Kingston purchased the land on what would become Serendipity Winery in 2005.

O’Kell was born and raised in Toronto and received her BSc in Biology with a specialization in microbiology and pathogens at Hamilton’s McMaster University. After ruling out medical school, O’Kell was accepted into law school, but during a break between her undergrad and the start of the next session, she traveled to Naramata to assist her mother. She had already spent a few summers helping at the winery, so knew what she was getting into… almost. O’Kell ended up loving the work at the winery so much that she deferred her law school acceptance and stayed on at Serendipity full time since 2011.

Adopting the role of ‘second in command’, O’Kell wears many hats: at the winery, vineyard, and at the wine shop. While she prefers to spend time in the cellar, she has also conducted tastings, acted as a sales representative for the winery, delivered cases of wine to stores and restaurants, and has managed the popular wine club as well as on-site winery events. But since winemaking is her greatest passion, she knew that she needed more than just hands-on experience to truly make her mark.

California Dreamin’

Most budding winemakers recognize that the winemaking certificate from California’s UC Davis is one of the most thorough and respected programs in North America. For the past 18 months, taking breaks only during the BC harvest, O’Kell worked in her spare time to complete the program, designed for those that already work in the industry. The course focuses on quality control and sensory analysis, viticulture, the history of winemaking, and the biology of wine. O’Kell attended video lectures three times per week, successfully handed in weekly quizzes, and completed a new winemaking assignment every two to three weeks, with a final exam for each course. Averaging 95% on her course work, O’Kell scored 100% on her final exam, which she completed in March 2016.

The Land of the Silver Fern

O’Kell wished to further expand her range of experience beyond the Okanagan’s borders, hoping to work a harvest in another wine region. She initially set her sights on Australia so that she could work a harvest during spring in the Southern hemisphere and return in time for the fall vintage in BC. Eventually, she chose New Zealand as its climate and grape varietals are very similar to British Columbia. Proving the apple doesn’t fall far from the pear tree, her mother had also trained at a winery in New Zealand. Ultimately, O’Kell chose Delegat Winery in Blenheim, within the Marlborough region on the South Island, the centre of New Zealand’s wine industry. She was interested in working at an ultra-modern facility that processed varietals similar to those that she worked on at Serendipity, including Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. She also wanted to learn processes that are not widely used in BC, including environmentally progressive clarification and filtration methods.

“I specifically requested to be put on the flotation team at Delegat,” O’Kell says. “It’s a process for removing suspended solids in the wine, using micro-bubbles of food-grade nitrogen injected into the must. It allows a winemaker greater control over the degree of desired clarification, and can improve the efficiency of filtration and water usage. It’s a new technology that’s just beginning to be implemented in the Okanagan, and I want to make sure we’re ahead of the curve.”

Since mid-March 2016, O’Kell worked 12 and-a-half hours a day, with one day off every eight, with a crew that consisted of 12 full time staff, along with 66 international winemakers from France, the Ukraine, the USA, Australia, and Russia; which gave her additional insight on winemaking techniques from across the globe.

“There were some international winemakers finishing up their PhD studies while I was there,” O’Kell notes. “Even though I was focused on one aspect of winemaking, I spent as much time as I could learning about their particular areas of expertise. For example, I learned a lot about new methods of extraction in red wines, efficient cellar management techniques, as well as creative solutions for pump overs, racking, and how to effectively manage tank space. These ideas will be integrated into the work that Bradley [Cooper, Serendipity’s head winemaker] and I do in the cellar this vintage.”

While on this group international experience, each of the visiting winemakers brought a bottle of wine from their home country for comparison and discussion. O’Kell shared Serendipity’s terroir-driven 2014 Rosé, a blend of white and red grapes from her estate vineyard, purpose-planted exclusively for rosé wine.

Home Sweet Home

Now, armed with valuable international experience and her winemaking certificate, O’Kell plans to fully-integrate what she has learned to the winemaking program at Serendipity, while sharing new tips and tricks with her fellow winemakers on the Naramata Bench. Working alongside Bradley Cooper, O’Kell is putting the final touches on the first vintage of Sparkling Truth, a traditional method sparkling wine made from the 2014 vintage, which has been O’Kell’s pet project. Watch for the Sparkling Truth to be released in August 2016.

Looking forward to the forthcoming harvest this fall, O’Kell says, “I have had the privilege of working with many young winemakers from around the world, and I am inspired by their techniques, and I’m looking forward to bringing new methods and practices to the table at Serendipity. After all, I’m a scientist at heart, and experimenting with new ideas is the most exciting thing about what I do.”

ENCORE Vineyards to bring urban winery to downtown Penticton

  Town Hall Brands Client News                           Contact Sujinder Juneja 604-367-6745

Urban Winery Coming to Downtown Penticton

Former PenMar Theatre complex to take on new life as a winery & hospitality centre

[Penticton, BC] - ENCORE Vineyards Ltd., home to TIME Winery, McWatters Collection, and Evolve Cellars, announces it has purchased the former PenMar Theatre Complex (361 Martin Street, Penticton) and will be transforming it into an urban winery, the first in the South Okanagan.

The subjects have now been removed on the sale, paving the way for ENCORE to begin modifications on the building that will see it ready for wine production of the 2016 vintage.

The restored building will be home to a brand-new winery production facility, including a crush pad, barrel cellar, custom fermentation hall, lab, warehouse, and administrative offices. When open to the public, the visitor experience will include a tasting bar, a small plates lounge, a 40-seat outdoor patio, as well as a retail wine shop.

An onsite commercial kitchen will give the winery the ability to host public and private events. Banquet facilities and other offerings are being planned for the future.

In keeping with the community's desire to showcase local performing arts, ENCORE will maintain one of the theatres as a 75-seat movie, performance and event space for concerts, private functions and non-profit uses. Ultimately, this destination, multi-purpose winery, bistro and theatre will help to attract visitors to the area and assist with the revitalization of the downtown.

The PenMar is a historic site with a long history of arts and culture. Built in 1956, the theatre closed in 2012 after its then-current owners, Landmark Cinemas, moved into a multiplex location. An organization named the PenMar Community Arts Society attempted to raise enough money to restore the building, but was not able to raise the funds required. ENCORE Vineyards, who coincidentally contributed to the society's fundraising efforts, is pleased to be able to help preserve this historic building and contribute to the community.

Harry McWatters, president and CEO of ENCORE Vineyards says, "We are excited to share the next chapter of ENCORE Vineyards with our Penticton neighbours. Our aim is to create a downtown destination that the South Okanagan can be proud of, while preserving the legacy of this vibrant cultural landmark."

About Encore Vineyards:

ENCORE Vineyards Ltd., a progressive Okanagan-based company, is home to a number of wine brands, providing a host of wines and hospitality service. The ENCORE team has developed an unparalleled opportunity for investors to participate in the growth of its existing enterprise, substantial brand expansion, and premium brand acquisition opportunities. By consolidating certain operating, management, and marketing and sales strategies of multiple wineries, ENCORE will improve financial returns in what has the potential to be a high-margin industry. Learn more at encorevineyards.ca.

ENCORE has amassed an impressive team, poised to help define the next generation of Okanagan winemaking via its production of premium wines in the Okanagan Valley. The company is known for its labels including TIME Winery, Evolve Cellars and McWatters Collection. In 2016, ENCORE Vineyards expands, with new projects that further celebrate the spirit of the South Okanagan.

The ENCORE team is led by president and CEO Harry McWatters, a 48-year veteran of the British Columbia wine industry. Christa-Lee McWatters-Bond is the ENCORE marketing director, offering lifelong wine industry insight. Lawrence Buhler is ENCORE’s director of winemaking, who has experienced more than 15 vintages in Ontario, British Columbia, Chile, Argentina, and Australia. He will oversee the company’s growing portfolio of premium British Columbia wines.

Meet Skip and Judy Stothert #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 Skip and Judy Stothert.

Skip and Judy Stothert have been partners in life and love since they met on a blind date in high school and have been together ever since. Skip ran a successful highway paving business (Green Roads Recycling) while Judy taught Interior Design at BCIT while handling a select stable of clients. In 2003 Skip and Judy relocated from Deep Cove in North Vancouver to a 52-acre-site seven kilometers north of Naramata, directly above the water.

Skip and Judy named their new home Coolshanagh which means "a meeting place of friends" because it was part of Judy's family tradition.

It was on this site that Skip and Judy first cleared and planted Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the best suited varietals for the land after much research. Renowned global terroir specialist Pedro Parra called their site among the top 15% of key sites in the world, with some of best exposure and soil structures for grape growing he had seen in the Okanagan.

After selling their grapes for a few years, Skip and Judy decided to make their own wine in 2012 at Okanagan Crush Pad, under the Coolshanagh label, beginning with Chardonnay. Subsequent vintages have been released and the production of Coolshanagh Pinot Noir is underway.

Our team is very proud to have done the packaging and to promote this tiny producer.

With all of this shared about Skip and Judy, will you please help us give them a big hello?

Leave a comment below – or go give this post a like or share on Facebook or Twitter, Skip can be found on Instagram at Coolshanagh.

Meet Jackie Gidda #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 Jackie Gidda.

Jackie was born into the BC wine industry as her family has been growing grapes since the early 1970s and is one of the pioneering families of the Okanagan. The Gidda family opened Mt. Boucherie Family Estate Winery in 2001 and have been a friendly fixture in West Kelowna ever since.

At Mt. Boucherie Jackie contributes in the tasting room as well as helps represent the winery at events. She does not do this full time, as she is an accountant and mom of two as well, and that keeps her plate very full!

Jackie's sparkling personality and friendly approach make her a joy to be around whenever you encounter her at a tasting, and with all of that said about Jackie, will you please help us give a big hello to her?

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

Colour BC and ChefMeetsBCGrape To Showcase Monte Creek Ranch

On September 16^th, the British Columbia Wine Institute will host Colour BC VQA Fall Release Tasting and ChefMeetsBCGrape at Canada Place to showcase VQA wines of British Columbia. To learn more about these two events, please visit our earlier post here. On each day leading up to the events, we introduce you to wineries in attendance with unique stories and flavours that you will not want to miss. Today, we would like to introduce...

Monte Creek Ranch, Monte Creek BC

• Learn more about the Monte Creek Ranch space which serves as both a winery and a ranch that has developed a harmonious ecosystem of livestock, grape vines, and wildlife.
• Learn more about this wineries commitment to flavourful, fruit forward, and approachable wines, and how this guides their every decision from shoot shining to cluster thinning.
• Taste Monte Creek Ranch’s phenomenal new VQA releases while immersing yourself in the rich history behind the vineyard sites.

Founded in 2009, the Sidhu family were intrigued Monte Creek land’s rich history of ranchers and farmers as they were established garden nursery owners and blueberry farmers. After more exploration, the conditions of arid lands and ample sunlight gave the promise of a terrior that would allow for unique and flavourful grapes, and Monte Creek Ranch was born.

Monte Creek Ranch continues the land’s tradition and alongside their vineyards which promise an emphasis fruit forward, flavourful, and approachable wines, they produce farm fresh products including; purely grass fed black angus beef, haskap berries, and all natural honey. The winery is beautifully designed with modern materials and design aesthetics applied to the traditional “mission style” and regional barn structures which culminates in a stunning space with authentic historical sensibilities.

This winery’s commitment to the land’s historical roots and delectable wines make it a must visit on any trip to the Thompson Valley.

To Learn More:

www.montecreekranchwinery.com | Twitter: @montecreekranch | Instagram: @montecreekranch

Colour BC and ChefMeetsBCGrape To Showcase Summerhill Pyramid Winery

In case you missed it, on September 16^th, the British Columbia Wine Institute will be hosting Colour BC VQA Fall Release Tasting and ChefMeetsBCGrape to showcase VQA wines of British Columbia. To learn more about these two events, please visit our earlier post here. On each day leading up to the events, we would like to introduce you to a winery in attendance with unique stories and flavours that you will not want to miss. Today, we would like to introduce:

Summerhill Pyramid Winery, Kelowna BC

• Understand the biodynamic and organic practices that allows this winery to shape a diversified and healthy ecosystem that promotes healthy crops and balanced wines.
• Become fascinated by the history behind the Summerhill Pyramid Winery, including their award winning sparkling wine and the enchanting story behind the pyramind.
• Try the 2012 “OM” Organic Meritage, which just won the gold medal at the 2015 InterVin International Wine Awards.

Founded in 1991, the Okanagan Valley’s Summerhill Pyramid Winery is Canada’s largest certified organic winery, BC’s first Demeter certified biodynamic vineyard, as well as Canada’s foremost producer of sparkling wine. Winemaker Eric von Krosigk oversees the portfolio of BC VQA wines that have earned the winery the title of ‘Canadian Wine Producer of the Year’ from the International Wine & Spirits Competition in London, England. From the vine to the finishing process within the pyramid cellar, a space designed with precision sacred geometry and aligned to the stars to create a structure of stillness and harmony, these wines are crafted with love and great attention.

To Learn More:

www.summerhill.bc.ca | Twitter: @summerhillwine | Instagram: @summerhillwine

 What you will taste:

• Cipes Brut $26.95 - Aromas of apple, lime, pear, almonds and grapefruit. On the palate Cipes Brut exhibits crisp acidity, a soft, creamy mousse, and a long finish.
• Cipes Rose $26.95 - 100% Pinot Noir cuvee grown at multiple vineyard locations around the Okanagan Valley that were planted and are maintained specifically for sparkling wine production to express a crisp, bright style. Notes of raspberry, strawberry, kiwi, blood orange, vanilla, almond, and white toast.
• 2014 Summerhill Vineyard Riesling $29.90 - Based on biodynamic principles, this wine was fermented with the ambient yeasts that came in from the vineyard, resulting in an absolutely beautiful natural wine.
• 2012 "OM" Organic Meritage $65.00 - The conditions in 2012 were perfect for the growth and ripening of Cabernet Franc grapes, which was nature’s hint to produce a meritage blend that showcases this under-appreciated grape. A blend of 56% Cabernet Franc, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, and 2% Malbec, aged in French and American oak barriques.

Who you will meet:

Summerhill's sales manager, Tom Walmsley, will be on hand to answer all of your questions about this majestic winery and their fantastic wines.

Colour BC and ChefMeetsBCGrape To Showcase TIME Estate Winery!

On September 16^th, the British Columbia Wine Institute will host Colour BC VQA Fall Release Tasting and ChefMeetsBCGrape at Canada Place to showcase VQA wines of British Columbia. To learn more about these two events, please visit our earlier post here. On each day leading up to the events, we will to introduce you to wineries in attendance with unique stories and flavours that you will not want to miss. Today, we would like to introduce:

TIME Estate Winery, Oliver BC

• Learn more about the winery’s two fundamental elements, time and place, that guide their production of wine.
• Ask about the new hospitality centre and winery, to be finished by 2016, which will welcome visitors with a stunningly modern design.
• Taste the generous textures and spicy flavours of 2012 Mertiage that wine critics have been raving about.

The TIME Estate Winery received its winery license in 2011 but the story behind the vineyard dates back to 1993. Harry McWatters and Bob Wareham purchased the then fallow lands of the Monashee Vineyard and in an amazing feat planted the entire property, now named Sundial Vineyards, in 20 days. Since it’s inception, TIME Estate Winery has allowed nature to guide the decisions on which grape varieties would be best suited for their vineyard, where Richard Cleave, the vinyard’s viticulturist, nurtures the vines to produce fruit rich in aroma, strong tannin structure and full flavours. TIME is not only the name but also the main concept that drives this winery’s success; the investment of time into documenting and studying each vintage, paying attention to each vine, and noting that which is discernable only when one takes a moment to pause.

Sundial Vineyard continues to demonstrate why it’s the right place in the south Okanagan to grow premium grapes and reveal the best of TIME.

To Learn More:

www.timewinery.com | Twitter: @timewinery | Instagram: @timewinery

 What you will taste:

• Meritage (white) 2014 $25 - Classic aromas circle in the glass: honeydew melon, pear, and a hint of tangerine. Taste graceful hints of apricot and mango, swirled with ripe gooseberry. This wine is mellowed by barrel aging, resulting in a sturdy vibrant finish with delicate traces of oak.
• Chardonnay 2013 $27.99 - Luscious aromas of pineapple, ripe melon, and honeysuckle. The palate is citrus and tropical, with buttery characteristics balancing a bright acidity. Butterscotch and vanilla linger in a long, elegant finish. This wine will age gracefully through 2018.
• Meritage 2012 $29.99 - Classic aromas envelop the glass with red berries, black cherries, and peppery nuances. Fragrant characters of rose petal and sage mingle with the darker fruit elements. This wine is rich and structured, with excellent depth and silky well-integrated tannins.
• Cabernet Franc 2013 $19.99 - On the nose, classic aromas of red berries, black cherries, and hints of pepper and sage. On the palate, well-rounded flavours of plum and blackberry. Tannis are softly structured; however, this wine should continue to develop in bottle through 2020. 

Who you will meet:

You will be greeted by;

• Harry McWatters, owner and a leader in the BC wine industry for more than 40 years.
• Lawrence Buhler, director of wine making and a dedicated wine lover.
• Jeannette Montgomery, manager of wine clubs and administration.

Meet Cristina Brunner With Town Hall

By Leeann Froese It's Saturday - that means it's time 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 Cristina Brunner.

Cristina is an artist who hails from Peru, and she, along with her husband Paul, owns Blue Grouse Estate Winery, located in the beautiful Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island in British Columbia.

Cristina is looking forward to the brand new Blue Grouse winery to be open May 23, and invited you to come and visit her there this summer.

And whether you already know Cristina or not, please help us support her and say a big hello.

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

Start your summer sipping at a gala gathering of BC wineries

See you at the BCWAS 10^th Anniversary Gala Event! Happy #WineWednesday, British Columbia!

Help the BC Wine Appreciation Society celebrate its 10^th Anniversary, at a gala tasting overlooking the city. A whopping 48 BC wineries will be on hand to offer a true taste of the varied terroirs of BC.

April 16 at the Diamond Ballroom. Tickets are $49 and selling fast!

We are proud because many of our clients are going to be there to offer the attendees a taste, and, we will also have a Town Hall table! Come and visit us and taste wines from

40 Knots Winery

Blue Grouse Estate Winery

Mt. Boucherie Winery

Serendipity Winery

Singletree Winery

TIME Estate Winery

Join us at our table and meet Andrew Etsell from Singletree – Fraser Valley’s newest winery as well as Judy Kingston from Naramata's Serendipity.

Our lovely clients SpierHead will also be there, hosting their own table, so be sure to say hello to them and have a taste.

Below are all the details:

 Event Information

• What- BCWAS 10^th Anniversary Gala Event
• Date- Thursday, April 16^th, 2015
• Time- 7:00pm to 10:00pm
• Location- Diamond Ballroom, 1495 West 8^th Avenue, top floor of Masonic Centre
• Ticket Price- $49.00 per person. Tickets available online.

What to expect?

• Discover & Sip- Taste more than 95 SKUs from wine regions across BC, including the Vancouver Island, Fraser Valley, Naramata, West Kelowna and many more.
• Scenic View- Enjoy beautiful scenery of Vancouver as you mingle with like minded wine lovers inside the Diamond Ballroom.
• Meet & Greet- You will have the opportunity to meet winery principals from select wineries.
• Take home your tasting experience- Tasted a wine that you like but don’t want to order a whole case from one winery? No problem. Bring your credit card and you can buy as few as 3 bottles of wines from any winery to make a mixed case.

Winery Regions to Discover:

• Naramata Bench- Serendipity Winery
• Vancouver Island- Blue Grouse Estate Winery & 40 Knots Winery
• West Kelowna- Mt. Boucherie Winery
• Oliver- TIME Estate Winery
• Fraser Valley- Singletree Winery

BC wineries have so much to offer and these amazing vintners are making the trip to Vancouver to help the BC Wine Appreciation society kick off this milestone of 10 years of celebrating the wines of BC!