Talking with Roland Kruger, Proprietor of Wild Goose Winery in Okanagan Falls, it is impossible not to be swept away by his passion and immediately filling up your car with his new spring releases. Known for their clean, crisp quality wines, the challenge is always which ones to pick! Roland is excited about the 2012 vintage, which will see the first releases in time for the Spring Wine Festival. “2012 was a great growing season and we are seeing some impressive wines. We were wowed by the quality of the grapes.” Their popular Autumn Gold, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer will be released at this time, Roland is also excited that after 15 years of operating in ‘modest quarters’ for their tasting room, last fall saw the opening of a brand new tasting room. “It gives us the opportunity to do special events, offer the space for weddings or other events for the public and have wine related merchandise for sale. Our passion is meeting with people who love wine and with 1800 square feet we can offer so much more, including our retail marketplace, a special area for library wines and tours.” New this spring is the opportunity to buy a glass of wine and some light fare to enjoy out on their patio
Check out their new tasting room on May 4th during the Spring Wine Festival for the Wild Goose Spring Release BBQ from noon to 2pm. There will be food, music and new release wines to sample with tickets $30. Contact the winery to reserve your spot.
“Last year was so disruptive with all of the construction of this big project, I’m so excited to get back to what I love, sharing my passion for wine with all of our visitors and being able to do it in this beautiful new tasting room.”
Here’s one of Roland’s favorites:
2011 Stoney Slopes Riesling $19.99 -Multiple Gold Award winner
The pure stone and gravel from this parcel sloped due south on the Wild Goose vineyards yields intense flavors of Granny Smith apples, along with minerality, honey and mangos. Ends with a steely, crisp finish.
~ Terry Meyer-Stone