BC SUMMER WINE ADVENTURE
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Similkameen Valley SCENIC ROUTE
Descending into the Similkameen Valley can give a somewhat haunting feeling among the steep, rocky, windy and seemingly unforgiving terroir. The grape-growing part of the valley follows the Similkameen River from Cawston northwest to Keremeos. Drive the scenic Barcello/Upper Bench Road for great views of the region’s vineyards and orchards. Why not stay overnight in a winery guest suite and visit the many farm markets in the area too? WINE TOUR The dry, sunny, windy conditions make the Similkameen ideal for organic production, and it supports the highest concentration of certified organic farms in Canada. Similkameen wines are known for their stony, graphite-like minerality. Since a wide range of grape varieties grow well in this area, it’s a great place to try everything from crisp whites, bubbles and rosés to cider, fruit wines and robust reds. Stop and savour elegant, ageable Bordeaux varietal blends at the artisanal Clos du Soleil Winery.
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Naramata SCENIC ROUTE
Continuing north, Highway 3A takes you up into the mountains and past Yellow Lake, popular for fishing, before descending again into the Okanagan Valley. Look out for wild horses grazing on the high mountain plains. Continue north on Highway 97 past Kaleden (and its historic hotel) and Penticton (watch for people basking on colourful floaties in the channel), then head up the east side of Okanagan Lake along winding Naramata Road and its rolling vineyards on benches overlooking the lake. WINE TOUR The long late afternoon and evening sun allows a wide range of grape varieties to ripen, and the gently sloped vineyards and proximity to the lake extend the growing season and help avoid frosts. Merlot, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir dominate the plantings at the more than 40 wineries here. For a taste of Naramata, visit the tranquil Red Rooster tasting room and try the Pinot 3, a unique white co-ferment of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc.
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