Gray Monk Estate Winery is BC’s oldest family run winery under the guidance of George and Trudy Heiss and their three sons. Trudy explains the success of their amazing award-winning wines very simply.
“We have always aimed to achieve high quality and keep it consistent. We focus on getting better, not bigger,” she says.
This winter they’ve been busy with bottling, planning, budgeting and developing advertising plans.
“Spring and fall are great times for corporate retreats. We can comfortably seat about 50 people. July and August are very busy with the touring market.”
The wines themselves are testaments to their success. They’ve bottled their perennial favorites such as Siegerrebe, Kerner and Gewürztraminer in time for the spring Okanagan Wine Festival.
“Our signature wine is the Pinot Gris. It is a benchmark for Okanagan Pinot Gris wines. We have old vines and good minerality in the soil on site. Our Pinot Gris is a natural with our west coast cuisine,” Trudy said.
The Grapevine Restaurant, a favorite with locals and visitors alike, will be open for lunch daily from Easter weekend through October 31st. Dinner service is available May 1st through October 15th. Watch for Taste Lake Country April 23th and be sure to attend Blossom Into Spring on April 30th, featuring a Sparkling Reception and five course wine paired dining experience. Visit graymonk.com for details.
~ Deanna Rainey