After four years, Kraze Legz Estate Winery in Kaleden still sells the majority of their wine through their wine shop. “Our goal … build the brand by creating a thoroughly enjoyable Okanagan wine experience,” says Gerry Thygesen, who co-owns Kraze Legz together with his wife Sue. They receive a high volume of first-time customers who follow the signs from the highway, intrigued by their unique winery name, and have been fortunate to have built a solid following of loyal customers. “The experience and quality of our wines, have built a solid foundation of repeat customers and these customers are recommending our wines to their friends” Sue points out.
The experience factor is something that the wine shop can really deliver. Perched high above the community of Kaleden, the picnic area and 20’s era-themed wine shop offer unique and stunning views of Skaha Lake. Since every grape from Kraze Legz’s focused portfolio of whites and reds is grown on this property with no grapes sourced from any other vineyard, this land’s terroir is also proving to be as amazing as the view. Every wine they have ever produced has won an award at a major competition. “The awards start from the land. It’s spectacular,” says Gerry.
You can taste this special terroir in early December as Gerry and Sue will be pouring their wines at VQA stores around BC, including Sardis Park, Westwood, and the BC Wine Museum.
Of course Henry the cat, star of the Cat’s Pajamas calendar spearheaded by Sue, is sure to make an appearance on your next winery visit. A few copies of the 2014 calendar are still available as great Christmas presents. Sue has started collecting photos for the 2015 calendar and invites all cat lovers to submit their favourite kitty photo. Email sue@krazelegz.com.
~ Luke Whittall