JoieFarm Winery combines European winemaking traditions with a relaxed West Coast lifestyle. Co-founder and Executive Winemaker Heidi Noble celebrates the unique flavours of cool-climate Okanagan Valley wines. JoieFarm offers aromatic white wines, rosé, bubbles, and Burgundy varietals, creating a diverse and inviting selection for visitors.
The JoieFarm Story
JoieFarm Winery began its journey in 2002 as a cooking school and gastronomic guesthouse. By 2003, it had transformed into a winery, becoming only the fourth to emerge from the Naramata Bench. The winery started by supplying restaurants, leveraging the backgrounds of its founders, who are a sommelier and a restauranteur.
The tasting room opened in 2017, and in 2020, the En Famille Wine Club was launched. This winery's story is one of dedication to the craft of grape growing and winemaking. Every step, from soil to vine to bottle, is carefully guided to ensure consistently delicious wines.
The Wines
JoieFarm specializes in white wines that pair well with food, embodying a blend of West Coast ease and European sophistication. A must-try wine is the Célébration de la Vie Moscato Giallo. This wine reflects the winery’s dedication to producing easy-to-drink wines that enhance any meal or moment.
The winery’s offerings include a range of aromatic whites, rosé, and sparkling wines. Their wine portfolio showcases the distinct terroir of the Naramata Bench, with each bottle bringing out the unique characteristics of the grapes and the land.
Tasting Experiences
JoieFarm’s tasting experiences are designed to be both informative and enjoyable. Reservations are required, ensuring a personalized experience.
Classic Tasting
The Classic Tasting offers an intimate one-on-one experience. Guests can explore five wines from JoieFarm’s portfolio, uncovering the stories behind each wine and the winery’s viticultural philosophy. The tasting fee is $15 per person and is complimentary for wine club members. Tastings generally last about 30 minutes.
Heritage Tasting
The Heritage Tasting is ideal for larger groups or those looking for a quicker experience. This tasting includes three heritage wines: A Noble Blend, Rosé, and PTG. Knowledgeable staff guide guests through the tasting, highlighting the essence of JoieFarm’s winemaking tradition. The fee is $10 per person, complimentary for wine club members, and tastings last about 20 minutes.
The Vineyards
JoieFarm’s vineyards are located on the Naramata Bench and beyond. These sites benefit from cool-climate, lake-moderated conditions that are perfect for growing grapes. The vineyards include Secrest Mountain, Con Vida, Whitfield, Smethurst, and the JoieFarm Estate.
Secrest Mountain Vineyard
Overlooking Oliver, Secrest Mountain Vineyard sits at 487 metres above sea level. This high-altitude site provides a cool setting that yields exceptional grapes with full ripeness at lower sugar levels. The vineyard contributes to multiple wines in JoieFarm’s portfolio, including Pinot Gris and Gamay.
Con Vida Vineyard
Located on Skaha Bench, Con Vida Vineyard is known for its Gewürztraminer and Chardonnay. This vineyard has been part of JoieFarm’s portfolio for over a decade and produces premium fruit for wines like A Noble Blend and En Famille Chardonnay.
Whitfield Vineyard
Whitfield Vineyard in Summerland Lakefront is dedicated entirely to Riesling. The vineyard’s unique aspect allows for slow sugar development, resulting in complex and phenolic ripe fruit. This site provides fruit for the En Famille Riesling and contributes to A Noble Blend.
Smethurst Vineyard
The Smethurst Vineyard on the Naramata Bench is one of the most beautiful sites in JoieFarm’s portfolio. With plantings dating back to 1982, the vineyard includes Gamay, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc. The higher elevation moderates the heat, ensuring elegant fruit profiles.
JoieFarm Estate
JoieFarm Estate, located on a gentle slope is renowned for its beautiful terroir and stunning views. After careful consideration, Gewürztraminer and Muscat Giallo were planted four years after the estate's establishment. The unique bench terroir, moderated temperatures, diurnal swings, and afternoon winds create ideal conditions for these varieties, which are key components in A Noble Blend, En Famille Gewürztraminer, En Famille Muscat, and Celebration de la Vie Moscato Frizzante.
Sustainability
JoieFarm is committed to sustainable wine growing. The winery is undergoing Sustainability Certification through Sustainable Winegrowers BC. Their viticultural strategy focuses on healthy vines, site-specific canopy management, and soil reparation. Minimal irrigation encourages deep root growth, supporting the vines’ resilience and health.
Events and Activities
JoieFarm hosts a Summer Concert Series featuring local musicians every other Friday night in July and August. Guests can enjoy live music, stunning views, and a glass of wine, making it a perfect summer evening in the Okanagan. Additionally, the Picnique Lawn offers a casual space for visitors to relax, enjoy wine, and take in the scenic surroundings.
Conclusion
A visit to JoieFarm Winery promises not just great wine but a memorable experience of the Okanagan Valley’s beauty and charm. Whether through a guided tasting or a leisurely picnic, JoieFarm captures the essence of West Coast winemaking with a touch of European flair.
