Celebrating another great season, the Naramata Bench Wineries Association (NBWA) has welcomed five new members, flourishing to 29 wineries. “Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together,” stated James Cash Penney, J.C. Penney stores founder. With similar dedication, NBWA members collaborate to create an amazing wine country destination, offering their exceptional wines, events and experiences. Sure, Mother Nature provided a head start with the eye-popping landscape now dotted with pastoral vineyards on craggy hillsides overlooking Okanagan Lake. The spectacular drive along a 15 km country road, from Penticton to the village of Naramata, offers unique winery experiences along this well-marked wine trail. Mother Nature’s gift has been leveraged to create outstanding wines and accoutrements by NBWA’s members who offer, as their motto states, “A Story in Every Bottle!’. Information on all the winery members is at naramatabench.com. Check the website frequently and click links to the individual wineries’ websites for their open hours, dining options from casual to upscale, and, of course, their renowned and distinctive wines.
While the Association’s Annual Tailgate Party sold out in July, there are still many events happening this fall on The Bench. During Fall Okanagan Wine Festival check individual winery events, and don’t miss the complimentary Roll Out the Barrels, October 8th, from Noon to 5 pm, where winemakers provide behind-the-scenes opportunities to taste wines straight from the barrel. Check the NBWA website for participating wineries. Watch, too, for the NBWA’s 5th Annual Vertical & Vintages Wine Tasting event on Apex Mountain this winter. Once again, buy tickets early as this event always sells out in advance. Want to enjoy NBWA wines all year? Then join the Best of the Bench Wine Club, the only winery association wine club, and received a mixed case delivered directly to your home or office twice annually.
~ Roslyne Buchanan