The winter season was quiet atop West Kelowna’s Farm Loop, where Ciao Bella Winery sits apart from the hustle and bustle of the city below. But while the season lay quiet, owners Roberto and Sharon Fiume along with kids Antonio and Olivia worked hard to release to the public a precious gift from the season, the 2017 Dolce Vino – a uniquely Italian take on the ice wine!
A festive and seasonal cherry-blossom-pink in colour, the Dolce Vino is sweet and made from red grapes. It greets the drinker with a burst of dark cherry on the palate but finishes with a milder hint of Italian plums.
All of the wines here are crafted in traditional Italian styles, and the Fiumes love to welcome guests with warm greetings of benvenuto and offerings of authentic Italian meats, cheeses and cappuccinos. Images of Roberto’s Nonna (Grandma) and Nonno (Grandpa) don the labels, with the Dolce Vino showcasing a beautiful image of the two boarding the ship from Italy to Canada. This quickly growing winery is dedicated to family and invites all guests into the Fiumes’ own famiglia. It’s a rustic piece of Napoli, nestled right here in West Kelowna.
But winter’s harvest only yielded 30 cases of Dolce Vino, so be sure to visit soon. And bring the family with you … they’d love to take a quick trip to Italy!
2017 Pinot Grigio: This exquisite off-dry white is fruit forward with crisp hints of green apple and apricots, replete with a citric nose and a buttery finish.
2015 Pinot Rosé: Fun, refreshing and fruit forward, this delightful wine awakens the palate with bursts of strawberries and rhubarb underscored by hints of succulent watermelon and wild cherry.
2015 Pinot Nero: This red greets you with a nose that’s fresh out of the garden with an aroma of strawberries, cherries and raspberries. The body is mild, rich in fruit, with just a touch of chocolate.
~ Blake Allen