Summerhill Pyramid Winery and Tantalus – Kelowna x FBC Trip

When in Kelowna, it would make a whole lot of sense to visit a winery or two. Being in the Okanagan is so very different than what we’re used to here in Vancouver – or maybe it’s just me. The weather in some parts are dryer and for the most part, fairly sunny during this time of year. The warmth is dryer than it is here in Vancouver and with that in mind, it must help keep the land fertile to grow not only fruits and vegetables but perfect wine grapes. Because of this sort of micro climate, the Okanagan gets the global nod as a force to reckon with in the wine world.

Our first winery stop was at Summerhill Pyramid Winery. The Cipes family keeps this gorgeous winery running with organic practices, which, yes, means their wine is 100% organic.

Besides having an enviable view of the lake and a delicious assortment of wines, you can visit their Sunset Organic Bistro with a menu focusing on local, organic BC farms and an onsite chef’s garden.

They also have a Pyramid that’s fairly formidable and a quiet little space within.

We were privileged to try several of their wines during lunch – their Rose and their Riesling. Both, beautiful and pure. Drinking both was enjoyable and smooth. I would definitely recommend checking them out when in Kelowna.

For more information on Summerhill Pyramid Winery, check out their website here.

 

The next winery we visited was Tantalus. We had a tour around the vineyards with general manager, Jane Hatch. A former ecologist, Jane knows the lay of the land well.

The building is LEED certified – in fact, they are BC’s first LEED certified winery. All vineyards are hand tendered with no use of herbicides, there are also bee-hives and bird nesting boxes to encourage an intricate ecosystem within the vineyards. What was also impressive was their waste water treatment system which processes all waste – the first of it’s kind for a winery here in BC.

Again, we were able to sample several different wines but what stood out to me was their Syrah Ice Wine. I can’t say I’ve been a big fan of ice wine, purely because I find it too sweet but their ice wine is marvellous. It’s balanced and enjoyable to drink. It’s got a big of weight to it but not overpowering. I would definitely serve this with desserts. Their Rose and Chardonnay are beautiful as well.

For more information on Tantalus, check out their website here.