How lucky are you if you are in the Okanagan and can take the drive along Naramata Road, round the bend and get your first glimpse of Hillside’s iconic timber-frame building with its stunning 23-metre high tower.
It’s spring and Hillside’s gardens are yellow, purple and blue with flowering bulbs and their vineyards flushed with the first hints of green.
The wine shop opens for the season March 10th, while the Bistro reopens March 22nd (Wed –Sun), where both executive chef Brent Pillon and winemaker Kathy Malone, return to work their magic with local ingredients.
“Hillside’s wine program this year continues to focus on showcasing hand-crafted, small-lot wine that is made exclusively of Naramata Bench grapes,” says Jody Schwindt, sales & marketing manager. “Similarly, the Bistro showcases fresh and contemporary cuisine that celebrates the bounty of local ingredients. We provide our visitors with more than just a great bottle of wine…we offer the ultimate wine and food experience and a unique sense of place.”
Indeed, few places on Naramata Bench can boast a 32-year history, 100% Naramata Bench wine and stunning lake, garden and vineyard views. “It’s an idyllic place to pause and savour all this enchanting region has to offer,” Schwindt adds.
Chosen for their long history in winemaking and their award-winning wine, Hillside was one of 70 British Columbia wineries showcased at the prestigious Vancouver International Wine Festival. “As Canada was the theme country marking our 150th birthday, we saw this as an opportunity to show the world, through terroir and vintage diversity, that the wines of British Columbia have come of age,” says winemaker Kathy.
Upcoming events include Pinot & Pearls, May 6th where fresh oysters will be paired with the winery’s award-winning Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Meet and mingle with winemaker Kathy on May 13th, for the Roll Out The Barrel event.
~ Elaine Davidson