Richard Kamphuys clomps up the stairs from winery to wine shop, the familiar gumboots on his feet and an adrenaline-fueled gleam in his eyes. The 2013 harvest and crush was in full swing at Ancient Hill Estate Winery. The energy in the building was pulsing—it was a good year.
The winery was selected as a finalist in the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce business excellence awards in the Hospitality/Tourism category. Repeat visitors are growing in number, bringing with them family and friends. Despite the winery being off the beaten track (on the hill east of the Kelowna Airport) its reputation continues to grow. It’s a place to get a warm welcome and to buy some very, very good wines.
Three recently released wines also have Richard smiling.
2010 Lazerus
Unoaked, this is a lighter style red wine that makes for easy drinking. It’s light in tannins, but will still go well with many types of food. 800 cases of this Zweigelt, Lemberger, Pinot Noir and Baco Noir blend were produced and it is suitable for just about any occasion.
2011 Baco Noir
Beautifully balanced, Ancient Hill’s flagship red is barrel aged and heavier in body that one might expect. Dark rich fruits dominate, with spice, chocolate, vanilla and butterscotch on the nose. This wine has a very pleasing mouth feel, soft in tannins but heavily laden with flavours.
2012 Rosé
Made with 70% Baco Noir and 30% Gewürztraminer combined to make a vibrant red-coloured wine that bursts with aromas of spice, strawberry, citrus and flowers. It has a distinct cherry finish.
“This rosé proves rosé isn’t just a summer wine,” Richard exclaims. “Think of it with turkey dinner!”
And, speaking of turkey dinners, Ancient Hill is a great spot to hold a Christmas party. Warm and spacious, with a full kitchen for caterers, it is sure to provide a memorable backdrop to a special occasion.
~ Lorne Eckersley