It is remarkable, given the exponential growth of the Okanagan as a world-renowned wine destination, that one of the region’s homegrown favourites manages to balance the headiness of international acclaim with the heart of a family business.
The Stewart family’s roots run deep in this valley–they’ve been cultivating land here for generations. Like a beloved grandparent, their Quails’ Gate Winery warmly opens its arms to your family for a visit.
Summer season tours and tastings have begun, offering a variety of intimate experiences to welcome you and yours into the fold. Walk through the estate and the Stewarts’ history on the aptly named Family Tour. Learn about unique parings (including delicacies from local Karat Chocolates) at a chocolate and wine tasting. Attend one of the popular seated tastings in the heritage cabin that was once home to the pioneering Allison family. These are open to the public, but offer abundant perks for wine club members, too (almost like being a relation, right?).
You can also be a part of something bigger by joining the gregarious gatherings of the Vineyard Dinner series. Limited to 36 people seated at communal tables in the vineyard, these evenings celebrate the connections we make when sharing a meal together. Chef Roger Sleiman’s specialized menu is served family style, of course.
This season, winemaker Nikki Callaway also showcases the inimitable Stewart family spirit. The collector’s edition 2016 Lucy’s Block Rosé honours matriarch, Lucy Mary Whitworth. This is not your grandmother’s rosé! It is the Stewarts’ grandmother’s rosé, though, and it’s sophisticated, elegant and adventurous, just like she was.
Grandma Lucy would surely be delighted to see the explosive growth of the Okanagan. As the region’s popularity increases, though, it’s comforting to know that you can still make your visit to Quails’ Gate truly a family affair.
www.quailsgate.com
~ Abbey Westbury