Laughing Stock Vineyards is an estate winery that has carved out a name for itself in the wine industry. Founded in 2003 by Cynthia and David Enns, this winery is celebrated for its Bordeaux-style wines, particularly its flagship wine, Portfolio. Located on the Naramata Bench, Laughing Stock offers an exceptional wine tasting experience for both novices and connoisseurs.
The Vineyards
Laughing Stock operates two primary vineyards. The Naramata Bench Vineyard grows all the Bordeaux grape varieties, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. This vineyard provides the grapes for their flagship wine, Portfolio. Another key vineyard is the Perfect Hedge Vineyard in Osoyoos. Acquired in 2007, this 22-acre vineyard also cultivates Bordeaux varieties alongside Viognier and Syrah. The Osoyoos vineyard benefits from southwest exposure above Osoyoos Lake, which is ideal for growing robust red wines.
Winemaking Philosophy
At Laughing Stock, the winemaking team, led by Sandy Leier, is dedicated to producing high-quality wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley. The winery employs advanced techniques and equipment to ensure the best fruit is used. This includes double sorting tables to select the finest grape clusters and regulating how much whole berry fruit goes into the fermenters.
Experimentation with fermentation vessels is a hallmark of Laughing Stock's approach. The winery uses temperature-regulated stainless steel tanks, concrete eggs, and Italian clay amphorae to ferment their wines. These methods add complexity and distinctive flavours to their products. The red wines undergo extended barrel aging in 100% French oak, enhancing their depth and character.
Tasting Experience
Visitors to Laughing Stock can enjoy a tasting session for $10, where they can sample a variety of wines. A standout option is the Portfolio Merlot, which consistently receives high praise from critics and wine enthusiasts. This wine is a blend of Bordeaux varieties, meticulously crafted to reflect the winery's dedication to excellence.
Laughing Stock's white wines are generally intended to be consumed within two years of release, while their red wines can be aged for seven to ten years. For those with multiple bottles, it is suggested to taste a bottle occasionally to observe how it evolves over time according to personal preferences.
Accolades and History
Laughing Stock Vineyards has garnered numerous accolades over the years. Portfolio has been a top-selling Bordeaux-style blend in British Columbia for four of the past five years. The winery's dedication to quality is evident in its innovative practices and attention to detail throughout the winemaking process.
David Enns began his winemaking journey in 2001 making wine in a garage with grapes from Walla Walla, WA. By 2003, Laughing Stock was the ninth winery on the Naramata Bench, a region now home to over 40 wineries. Cynthia and David remain hands-on in their roles, with Cynthia focusing on grape cultivation and David on winemaking.
Laughing Stock was a pioneer on the Naramata Bench, being the first to use double sorting tables and concrete egg fermenters. Their commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new techniques continues to set them apart in the wine industry.
Conclusion
A visit to Laughing Stock Vineyards offers a comprehensive wine experience, from understanding the meticulous vineyard practices to tasting some of the finest wines in the region. Whether you are a seasoned wine lover or just starting your journey, Laughing Stock provides an informative and enjoyable exploration of winemaking at its best.
