There are big changes afoot at Oliver Twist Estate Winery this year! Proprietors Bruce and Denice Hagerman, in an effort to make their retirement a little more tangible, have brought a General Manager on board. Marty Ethier has now joined the team and is taking over the day to day operation of the winery. Bruce and Denice will still be involved with the winery, but now they have someone with whom to share the toil and the glory.
Oliver Twist winemakers plan to enter territory they have never travelled before. Out of the 2011 harvest will be born a white blend of Chardonnay and Viognier grapes. This new blend probably won’t emerge officially for a while, but watch for it in the coming year.
2007 Proprietor’s Reserve Merlot
Made from selected grapes grown in the South Okanagan specifically for this wine, has been doing very well on the awards circuit. This soft, ripe red that sports a palate loaded with blackberries and vanilla has recently brought home a Gold Medal from the Cellars of the World competition in Kelowna, a Silver Medal from the BC Wine Awards, and a Bronze from the Wine Access 2010 Canadian Wine Awards.
2008 Syrah
Available in limited quantities as well. This luscious stunner will make your senses reel with its bold, spicy notes and its palate rich with ripe, dark fruit, toasted coconut, and vanilla notes. This Syrah won a Gold Medal at the Wine Access 2010 Canadian Wine Awards and Bronze Medals at both the Cellars of the World competition and the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival.
2010 Oliver’s Choice Kerner
No visit to Oliver Twist is complete without sampling some of their Oliver’s Choice Kerner. The 2010 vintage is currently available. This Riesling-Trollinger cross displays floral and citrus aromas; followed by tropical fruit and a hint of spice on the palate. Oliver’s Choice is the perfect choice to partner a wide variety of dishes from roast turkey to Asian influenced menu items.
~ Courtney Fossett