Fall is the quintessential time to celebrate your senses at Hester Creek Estate Winery. Savour the taste of their extraordinary wines, look out over the Tuscan-style hills and vineyards of the Golden Mile and immerse yourself in the feeling of utter relaxation and true perfection.
At Hester Creek, the portfolio of handcrafted wines portrays the unique terroir, winemaking style and personality of the winery. Winemaker Rob Summers says it best: “It is my goal to make wines that are approachable but not simple; that are enjoyed by many, and still appreciated by those with discerning palates.”
Director of hospitality Roger Gillespie says there is a lot to celebrate this fall at Hester Creek.
“We are releasing two great new reserve wines. Watch for the 2014 Reserve Cabernet Franc, with a hint of ripe raspberries, fresh dill and leafy fall undertones. Already aged for a year, the Cabernet Franc is very true to varietal. The 2015 Reserve Merlot features dark cherry, mulberry, vanilla and anise.” Both wines are $28.95.
Fall also sees the arrival of their annual Garlic Festival on Saturday, September 30th. The festival is a celebration for all ages and its popularity continues to soar. Enjoy the live music, food trucks and spice companies. Visit the garlic vendors, browse through wine-related gifts and take in the case lot sales of specific wines. There’s face painting and coloring contests for the kids, too.
Proceeds from the Garlic Festival go directly to the Oliver Elementary School Farm to Table salad bar program. Along with Hester Creeks’ annual $11,000 contribution, the festival generates up to an additional $3,000. Hester Creek president Mark Sheridan recently attended a gala awards ceremony in Vancouver, where the Principal and Vice Principal’s Association of British Columbia recognized the winery for a Partnership Award – one of only five across the province – as a leader in community support.
Hester Creek Estate Winery welcomed a fresh start when owner Curt Garland purchased the celebrated vineyard and recreated it into the gem it is today. And plans are already in motion for Hester Creek to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the vineyard itself, which was planted in 1968. At that time, pioneer Joe Busnardo was a true trailblazer, recognizing the potential for premium vinifera grapes to excel in the South Okanagan. He began planting…Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot Blanc and Hester Creek’s now-famous Trebbiano. His dreams became a reality and in 2018, the 50-year anniversary will be heralded with a celebratory anniversary wine which promises all of the richness of the history it represents. Look for unique anniversary events throughout the year as well.
Pictured: Garlic Festival fun for the whole family.