(pictured: Tasting room ladies (L-R) Louise, Yvonne and Erica holding bottles of their favorite wines.)
Wild Goose Vineyard’s (WGV) GM Roland Kruger has been busy all year. From hiring Chef Sarren Wolfe to run their on-site Smoke and Oak Bistro, to launching their first-ever wine club, there hasn’t been a dull moment for the family owned and operated Okanagan Falls winery.
“The Smoke and Oak Bistro has been hopping all season. People have really enjoyed the concept, and we’re getting positive feedback. It’s becoming so busy, that reservations are encouraged in order to guarantee a seat.” The menu’s built around WGV’s wines, featuring mouthwatering Southern-style BBQ items coupled with traditional German recipes at a reasonable price. Open daily 11-4.
After more than 20 years in business, WGV launched their first wine club this summer. The ‘Vintner’s Club’ offers exciting incentives, such as first dibs on new releases and in-store specials. With wine clubs trending throughout the valley, WGV researched their customer’s needs before establishing their own. Ongoing credit card charges seemed to be the main concern, and Kruger assures that their club is “very straightforward with no long-term commitments. We want to keep ‘em happy – that’s what it’s all about.” With great incentives like members-only events, special wines, and exclusives, WGV fans should check it out. Ask any of their wonderful wine shop staff about the ‘Vintner’s Club’ and let the savings and VIP-treatment begin!
During the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival, WGV has some fantastic events. On Saturday October 4 from 12-3, WGV hosts their homage to the iconic Memphis ‘Beale Street Festival.’ Celebrate the rhythms of rock roots ‘n blues music paired with Tennessee-style BBQ comfort food and delectable wines. Put on your blue suede shoes for a rockin’ Elvis tribute artist playing their 4-course Winemaker’s Dinner Thursday, October 9, featuring a fabulous wine-paired menu from Chef Sarren. Tickets $79, limited seating.
Visit www.wildgoosewinery.com for all the details. Better yet, visit their wine shop where you’ll find all the goods, plus great in shop specials, end-of-vintage wines, library releases, and more!
2013 Gewürztraminer $19.00
Kruger describes this wine as “one of the most amazing in Alsatian style. Lots of floral/rose attributes and richness with a great mouthfeel.” Gold Medal winner at Wine Align National Wine Awards.
2013 Pinot Gris $18.00
“It’s a perfect example of a Pacific Northwest style,” says Kruger. “An amazing fruit-forward wine with crisp acid – it’s a super palate cleanser. Ours has lots of Okanagan Valley orchard fruit notes like peach and apricot.”
www.wildgoosewinery.com
~ Sarah Willard