Winemaker Notes
In the vineyards, a combination of science and intuition drives the selection of grape varietals best suited to the Okanagan Valley's diverse microclimates. Investments in technology, irrigation systems, frost protection and weather stations are all designed to encourage the production of premium fruit. Complete control of the process from planting to harvest is essential. At the winery, new presses, expanded barrel aging capacity and new temperature controlled underground cellars ferment and carefully age the wine under optimum conditions.
Located just north of the state of Washington, British Columbia includes five distinct Geographical Indications; its vineyards mostly surround the cities of Vancouver and Victoria and include a few more inland locations. The region grows about 80 different varieties including Pinot gris, Chardonnay and Riesling as well as Merlot, Pinot noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.
One of the most popular and versatile white wine grapes, Chardonnay offers a wide range of flavors and styles depending on where it is grown and how it is made. While it tends to flourish in most environments, Chardonnay from its Burgundian homeland produces some of the most remarkable and longest lived examples. California produces both oaky, buttery styles and leaner, European-inspired wines. Somm Secret—The Burgundian subregion of Chablis, while typically using older oak barrels, produces a bright style similar to the unoaked style. Anyone who doesn't like oaky Chardonnay would likely enjoy Chablis.