What is terroir and how does it affect the taste of wine?
Terroir is one of the most used and least understood wine words. Originally it was associated with earthy notes in many Old World wines. Today, the definition has evolved to capture the sense of place — you can taste where the wine comes from. Here in the Okanagan Valley we have the most amazing diversity of terroir and it’s the secret ingredient to our wines.
Conviction Ridge Vineyard
Currently producing Merlot, Pinot Blanc and Bacchus, with new plantings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Conviction Ridge Vineyard was originally planted with just Bacchus in the late 1980s. In the late 1990s, half of the vineyard was cut down to the roots and field-grafted with Merlot vines. About 7 years ago, a small block of Merlot was removed to make way for Pinot Blanc. Perched on an east-facing bench overlooking Skaha Lake, this vineyard enjoys the drying effects of morning sun, while benefiting from the temperature-moderating effect of Skaha Lake. Although not certified, this vineyard is responsibly farmed using sustainable practices.
Vantage Point Vineyard
Currently producing Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer. This is a 6.5-acre vineyard we lease and farm, and it shares a property line with Conviction Ridge Vineyard. This sprawling vineyard has two distinct elevation zones, and is situated a bit closer to Skaha Lake. Although not certified, this vineyard is farmed responsibly using sustainable practices.
The Lookout Vineyard
This small property is our newest vineyard, which we just planted in May of 2025. Prior to installing the vineyard, this site was a former organic market garden with an old heritage apricot orchard. Located about 500m from our home vineyard, this gentle sloping site sits on a bluff directly above the KVR Trail and Skaha Lake. It will be a few years before we can produce any wine from this vineyard, but we are really excited about the potential this site has for producing world class Pinot Noir.
Zoetermeer Vineyard
This tiny 0.5-acre vineyard is a hidden gem producing Merlot exclusively for our Unsanctioned Series wine. Meticulously farmed by Mike and Frances De Jong, Zoetermeer is farmed 100% by hand. Zoetermeer is a Dutch word meaning “Sweet Lake”, and it’s perched high on a bluff above Skaha Lake at the norther tip of Kaleden. It’s location offers breathtaking views of the valley, and the windy site helps naturally maintain a healthy vineyard.