When Kim Pullen, Proprietor of Church & State, was pursuing his next great adventure in life, he was hooked by the romantic vision of owning a winery in Victoria. A successful businessman in other ventures, Kim cast his eye for an investment to 'guide' – where he could be 'inclusive, diplomatic, arm's length'. In short time the dream shifted into reality and Kim was thrown full tilt, hands on, into the business of running a winery. "To me the name of Church and State is that balance. To find a resting place between the vision of the heart and the practicality of the head." Once established in Victoria, he quickly recognized that he needed a presence in the Okanagan, where he sourced the bulk of his grapes, especially his main love; the big reds and big whites.
In a perfect marriage of heart and head, the vision of Kim has created one of the most elegant tasting rooms in the South Okanagan. "It's one of the few that offers a sit down tasting bar with two large screen TV's at either end and a large viewing window into the barrel room." They have expanded their patio with a spectacular double sided glass tasting bar, displaying frosted ice beneath – a perfect place to spend time, enjoy your wine and the gorgeous view.
"We want the wines to speak for themselves," says Kim. And they are. Church & State's Syrah was recently picked as 'Best Red in Canada'. Winemaker Jeff Del Nin brings his years of expertise to Church & State and Viticulturist Michael Mauz ensures that the fruit that comes to the cellar is of the best possible quality. It is this commitment to excellence and balance of all elements of winemaking that characterizes the pure clean wines of Church & State.
2011 Cuvée Blanc $20.00
Blend of Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Muscat clone. Big fruit flavours, complimented by floral notes, with lovely acidity and just a touch of residual sugar. Perfect for the patio.
2009 Coyote Bowl Syrah $40.00
'Best Red Wine in Canada' – Canadian Wine Awards. Floral, herbal and peppery, with mouth-filling dark fruit. Only available in the tasting room.
2008 Quintessential $50.00
Gold, 2012 New World International Wine Competition. Signature Bordeaux blend of Cab Franc, Cab Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Rich black and red fruit on the nose, deep flavours of raspberry, cherry, chocolate and hints of herbs. Rich mouth feel with delicate tannins and long finish.
~ Terry Meyer-Stone