After several years at their Gartrell Road location, Summerland’s Sonoran Estate Winery has moved back to their original property (21606 Bridgeman Road), north of Sumac Ridge.
“This has always been a beautiful location,” says proprietor Ada Smits. Lifelong farmers, the Smits family purchased the lakeside apple orchard in 1999, building their Okanagan dream home and the Windmill B&B. The following year, they removed the trees to plant a vineyard with Merlot, Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Blanc. Their first wines in 2003 received such enthusiasm, that they bought the adjacent property in 2004, adding Malbec, Ehrenfelser, Syrah, more Gewürz, and Sonoran’s cult-favourite, Oraniensteiner.
From these and select local vineyards, Sonoran has developed an impressive portfolio of Alsatian-style whites, Bordeaux-inspired reds, rosés, sparkling, and mouth-watering dessert wines. The addition of port-style wines last season began with their Merlot-based “Happy Dragon.” Several varietal variations are being released.
Embracing a “simpler is better” philosophy, the Smits’ opted for a picnic-license at Bridgeman Road. Enjoy incredible lake, vineyard and mountain views with a glass of wine and pre-packaged picnic fare. Easy-access from highway 97 with plenty of parking, come experience the fine wines and friendly service for which Sonoran is known.
~ Sarah Willard