Our five senses are featured in The Vine Glass Renewal Resort’s logo because every sense is in motion when you visit this spectacular property in the southern Similkameen Valley. Owners and hosts Jyl Chegwin and Roger Hol (pictured) have created a truly amazing place to get away and experience rural life.
Though only a minute off of highway 3, traffic noise does not intrude on this serene property nestled in the valley. Guest amenities include guest suites, a pool, hot tub, meeting room, billiards room, fire pit, and kayaks, canoes, and bicycles can be rented for more exploring. There is also a full kitchen, outdoor forno pizza oven, and wood grill, which itself has become a favorite. Roger recommends cooking steak over Cabernet Franc vine wood. “It brings out the flavour the best,” he explains. The site can easily host parties for over 250 people, such as their annual Quest For the Cure fundraiser that also includes live music.
The winery produces two wines: The Rejuvenation Red, a co-fermented blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, and the Why Knot White, made with Viognier. These are the varieties planted on the spectacular river-front vineyard that has the image of a glass of wine. Jyl, inspired by her previous experiences building corn mazes, came up with the idea that is now easily viewable on Google Earth. With Roger’s years of grape growing experience, he’s not afraid of letting the character of the vintage show through. “Each vintage should be as unique as the year it was made,” says Roger.
The resort is open 10 months of the year from March to December, booked by phone or email. Wines are available by appointment at the winery.
~ Luke Whittall