(pictured: Bobby & Harpreet Gidda)
At the helm of Volcanic Hills Winery, Bobby Gidda has been riding on a wave of continual acclaim.
But it’s recent accolades that have given him a boost of energy just in time to take on the flow of business that comes with summer.
At the Okanagan Wine Festival, held in the beginning week of May, Volcanic Hills won Best Varietal for their Magma White.
“It’s the first time we’ve won best varietal in this competition,” Gidda said.
“We’ve always received finalist, which is top 20% of the wines entered, and this shows that our winemaking and viticulture skills are really being recognized by the industry.”
It’s recognition that guides visitors to the Boucherie Road tasting room to try something new.
“A lot of consumers see that award and they want that wine… that’s what they want to buy,” he said.
These days visitors are also looking at new ways to enjoy the views and tastes of Volcanic Hills.
Gidda and his team have started hosting events in the wine shop and patio, to accommodate that demand.
So far they’ve held an open house, and co-hosted an event with the Kelowna Folk Club.
“The artists really enjoyed themselves here, so they played for 45 minutes extra,” he said. “The feedback we got on the vibe and atmosphere was all positive.”
When there aren’t events, Blu Saffron Bistro is also giving consumers a reason to linger.
Since it’s May 3 opening, Chef Colin Rayner has offered a mix of Mediterranean and Canadian cuisine that is starting to tempt locals.
All in all, Volcanic Hills are continually erupting with new and exciting ideas to keep their guests interested.
~ Kathy Michaels