New to the already impressive lineup at Volcanic Hills this summer is the well-known West Kelowna winery’s first vintage of Viognier, a classic and much celebrated French varietal renowned for both its floral and fruitful qualities. Two different takes have been made on this classic grape – a more citric straight varietal with hints of peach along with a more fruitful Reserve Viognier. However, the limited production of the inaugural vintage means that this unique wine will only available to Volcanic Hills Wine Club members this year. Fortunately, those who register before July 31st will still be able to receive this prestigious wine that remains quite rare in the Okanagan in their August shipment.
However, it’s been a bountiful year for Volcanic Hills Winery in more ways than one; with their 2011 Pinot Noir taking home a Gold medal at this year’s Best of BC Wine Awards for Best of Varietal. And while the Viognier is only available through the wine club, this light-bodied red with a cherry and dark mocha finish is currently still available in the wineshop as well as for tasting, in addition to a further 20 different wines throughout the whole of the summer season.
If all of this were not reason enough to swing out to West Kelowna and visit the winery beneath the shadow of the now dormant volcano, Mount Boucherie – the city of West Kelowna will be playing host to this year’s Feast of Fields – Okanagan. The well-known celebration of local wine, food, and beer will be held on August 14th and showcase a number of craft distilleries, local produce, and of course – specially paired meals with local wines. It’s the perfect opportunity to come out, unwind, and revel in the bounty of the volcanic heritage that makes the city of West Kelowna, and this winery, so distinct.
2015 Reserve Viognier – $30.00
An alternative take on her straight varietal sister, this barrel aged Viognier is enriched with just a touch of yet another classic French grape, Chardonnay. Citric to the nose but fruit-forward to the palate, much like the straight varietal. The Reserve Viognier shows a strong burst of apple with just a hint of peach on the finish, breaking from the French traditions of Viognier to establish a distinctive Okanagan-style.
~ Blake Allen