Just short of five years ago, Kalala Organic Estate Winery began to produce some fine reds, whites and Icewines, quickly carving out a loyal niche amongst BC and Alberta wine enthusiasts.
Nestled in the hills overlooking West Kelowna and Okanagan Lake, Kalala produces about 7,000 cases of wine annually, under the guiding hand of proprietor Karnail Singh Sidhu. Visitors to the winery enjoy the experience of a full operation, as the tasting room is located in the centre of the production area itself.
Kalala’s newly released signature 2009 Zweigelt comes highly recommended by both Karnail and Tibor Erdelyi, Assistant Winemaker.
“The 2009 Zweigelt is on the spicy side with lots of dark fruit…blackberry, dark cherry, succulent blueberry and a hint of toastiness. It is an ideal summer red and goes very well with grilled lamb, pork and even steak,” Erdelyi says.
Another spring release is the 2010 Pinot Gris, pale gold with aromas and flavours of spiced apples, butterscotch, tangerine peel and fresh cut hay. It pairs exceptionally well with seafood such as grilled scallops. It is equally as enjoyable when consumed on its own.
Yet another delicious aspect of Kalala’s offerings is their Icewine, featuring Zweigelt, Merlot and Chardonnay. Recently, the winery’s Chardonnay received a Gold Medal from the esteemed Chardonnay du Monde.
Kalala’s philosophy, which seeps into every aspect of their grape growing and winemaking, is Harmony With Nature. Their organic practices are not just a trend, according to Karnail, but a way of life.
~ Deanna Rainey