The Romance of the Vine
The experience starts with a stroll through vineyards with grapes ripening under the warm sun and the cool lake breezes. Here the winemaker, acting as both scientist and artist, utilizes the distinctive Penticton silt loam, a soil known for its richness in organic matter. The resulting grape crop is distinctive, each variety reflecting the nuance of the particular terroir it grows on.
Pioneers of the Bottle
Penticton's winemaking scene was initiated by the ambition and hard work of early settlers. In 1932, the Ghezzi, Casorso, Capozzi, and Bennett families were instrumental in founding the Okanagan wine industry when they established Domestic Wines and By-Products Co., which initially produced wine from excess apples in the region. In 1935, the company was renamed Calona Wines and began using grapes for their wine production. Today, the Calona brand has transitioned to the Conviction label, and both Calona and Sandhill Wines are now part of Andrew Peller Limited.
Penticton continues to celebrate innovators in the wine industry. Harry McWatters, from the TIME Family of Wines, was the first in Canada to make premium bottle fermented sparkling wine. This fusion of tradition and innovation continues to draw wine lovers to the region. The founders of the wine industry in this area were the trailblazers and their vision laid the groundwork for what is today Penticton's thriving and world-renowned wine industry.
The Winery Experience
Bench 1775 Winery is a prime example of harmony between land and grape. The winery offers breathtaking views that accentuate the sense of place, ensuring that every sip of their wine is a tribute to the land and the meticulous labour that goes into its creation.
TIME Family of Wines has also introduced an urban experience into Penticton’s winemaking scene, carving space for their winery in Penticton’s downtown landscape in an old movie theatre. Evolve Cellars will be opening in the Spring of 2024.
The Wineries: A Community
As the winemaking scene in Penticton has grown, so has the sense of community among the vineyards. Wineries often collaborate on events, shared tastings, and wine trail tours, fostering an environment of support and community that is indicative of the shared love for viniculture. These connections have facilitated the welcoming success of newcomers such as the District Wine Village in Oliver, a creative spot for independent, artisan wineries.
Penticton's winemaking scene is a rich blend of history, culture, and innovation, all expressed through its world-class wines.
