EXPLORE THE RICH DIVERSITY OF SIMILKAMEEN WINES AND CIDER
Embark on a journey through the diverse offerings of Similkameen wines and ciders, where each sip tells a story crafted by passionate winemakers committed to sustainable practices. Our valley’s unique terroir, a term encapsulating the environmental factors that influence grape and wine characteristics, is a cornerstone of our winemaking philosophy. In every bottle, you’ll taste the essence of our terroir—a harmonious blend of climate, soil, and topography.
Indulge in the crisp brilliance of white wines, effervescent bubbles, and delicately hued rosés that embody the vibrant spirit of Similkameen. For those who appreciate the bold and robust, savor reds cultivated in sun-drenched vineyards, their grapes absorbing the warmth radiating from the surrounding rocks. The Similkameen Valley boasts an array of popular varieties, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Viognier, Pinot Gris, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah.
Challenge your palate with an adventurous exploration of new varietals and styles—there’s something to captivate every taste. Experience the essence of Similkameen in every pour, where our commitment to quality and sustainability converges in wines and ciders that truly reflect the character of our extraordinary valley.
EXPERIENCE THE RAW BEAUTY OF THE SIMILKAMEEN TERRAIN
Explore the untamed allure of Similkameen, where nature unfolds in its purest form, revealing a landscape that is both rugged and breathtaking. Millennia ago, glaciers sculpted this land, leaving behind a mesmerizing tableau of rolling hills and resilient cliffs that bear witness to their ancient retreat. Alluvial fans, triangular formations crafted from sand, gravel, sediment, and silt, punctuate certain areas, a testament to the transformative dance of water cascading down the mountainsides.
The topsoil, a product of glacial deposits and contributions from snowmelt, streams, and ancient rivers, boasts a rich composition. Abundant in calcium carbonate, this soil imparts a coveted minerality to our wines. This distinctive blend nurtures a harmonious environment, fostering complex and elegant flavor profiles that define our exceptional wines. Immerse yourself in the Similkameen experience, where the unspoiled terrain gives rise to wines of unparalleled quality.
EMBRACE THE INFLUENCE OF VALLEY WINDS IN SIMILKAMEEN WINEMAKING
The Similkameen Valley is renowned for its distinctive winds, akin to the Tramontana winds in Italy and the Mistral winds in France, exerting a profound impact on the grapes cultivated in this region. These winds, a natural phenomenon, play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our vineyards, acting as a safeguard against pests and diseases. In conjunction with the prevailing arid conditions, the winds contribute to moisture reduction in both the vines and soil, minimizing the necessity for extensive spraying. A remarkable testament to our commitment to sustainability is the fact that over 40% of the crops in the area are cultivated organically, earning the Cawston region the well-deserved title of the “Organic Capital of Canada.”
While our winds remain nameless, the village of Keremeos carries a rich history rooted in the wisdom of the Okanagan First Nations. The name Keremeos is believed by some to signify a convergence of winds, while others interpret it as a reference to the creek gracefully carving its way through the flats. Embrace the symbiotic dance of winds and vines in Similkameen, where nature’s elements shape the character of our vineyards and contribute to the distinctive qualities of our wines.
BASK IN ABUNDANT SUNLIGHT AND HIGH-ALTITUDE VITICULTURE
Experience the radiant embrace of over 2600 hours of sunshine annually in the Similkameen Valley, a haven for vineyards that revel in the sun-drenched landscapes. Throughout the peak growing season, these vineyards bask in an impressive two additional hours of sunlight daily compared to renowned regions like Napa Valley in California.
As temperatures soar to exceed 40°C (104°F) during the summer, the Similkameen Valley, flanked by towering mountains on either side, benefits from the rocks reflecting heat onto the vines. This unique interplay ensures that the vines diligently labor to ripen the grapes to perfection, contributing to the exceptional quality of our wines.
Cool Night SERENITY
Embrace the cool serenity of Similkameen nights, a consequence of our high-altitude viticulture situated between 400-480 meters. Unlike regions with moderating lakes, the absence of such a feature in our valley allows for occasional summer nights to dip below 10°C (50°F). These dramatic temperature fluctuations work harmoniously to preserve the grapes’ natural acidity and facilitate optimal fruit ripening, culminating in wines that showcase the true essence of our sun-kissed and elevated terroir.
NOURISHING THE VALLEY: THE MAJESTIC SIMILKAMEEN RIVER
Flowing as the lifeblood of the Similkameen Valley, the Similkameen River originates from lofty mountain heights, embarking on a 197km (122mi) journey through our picturesque valley before gracefully crossing the border at Cawston into the USA. Though a formidable force, the river transforms into a serene and inviting presence by mid to late summer.
The waters of the Similkameen, once mighty, now play a vital role in the creation of award-winning wines that authentically capture the character of our region. As it winds its way through the valley, the river imparts a unique essence to the vineyards it touches, contributing to the distinctive terroir that defines Similkameen wines. Explore the symbiotic relationship between the Similkameen River and our vineyards, where the ebb and flow of its waters weave a narrative of resilience and vitality into every bottle.
Our People
Those that grow our grapes and make our wines are as wonderful as the wines they create. We have newcomers from all over the world and multi-generational families who started with crops and tree fruits and branches out into grape growing and winemaking. All have a passion for creating what we think are some of the best wines in the world.
The Similkameen is known for being rustic, rugged and real. Our valley’s beauty, our strong agricultural backbone, and our genuine people make the Similkameen a special place for us. Stop for a moment and listen to the whispers in the wind. They tell of an intricate past and of wonderful things to come.
Whether it’s a wine made of grapes or fruit, or a skillfully crafted cider, you can taste the passion and commitment in all that we produce here.
