True to its name, Rust Wine Co. is continuing to embrace transformation, rejuvenation and change. This summer it is set to release a series of top-tier single vineyard wines, a local craft beer program, daily offerings on the barbecue, as well as an unmatched hospitality. Any one of these offerings would be a challenge for an established winery. However, with Rust it is more impressive considering it has been able to do this within its first year of operation.
The single-vineyard wine releases are based on small-lot series of Syrahs and Merlots from the Rust estate which spans over an enviable 200 acres.
Assistant General Manager Kane Morgan says, “We are tremendously lucky to have not only some of the oldest vines in the province, but also vines that are spread throughout unique vineyards of varying soil and microclimates, which have allowed us to create wines vinified identically to showcase a true sense of place.”
This is no understatement: Rust is one of the few wineries uniquely positioned to express different BC terroirs as its holdings span Okanagan Falls, the south end of Cawston and Osoyoos and its home property on the prestigious Golden Mile Bench sub-appellation.
As the perfect foil to the rich, single-vineyard red wines, Rust has just launched its summer barbecue program.
“It’s been a huge hit,” says Morgan. “We really wanted to go for a backyard Dad-working-the-grill approach like you’d have at your best friend’s house.”
The idea is perfect in its simplicity, with fresh local grilled sausages and Alberta beef tenderloins served on a cutting board with a bottle of Okanagan wine. Chef Collin Gilbert, a dad himself, was classically trained at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, so even though the food is simple, there is no shortage of flavour.
Truly, Rust is striving for far more than the standard winery experience. Rust now offers a selection of wines by the glass, bottles of beer, vineyard tours and private events which can be booked through info@rustwine.com.
“We are super excited to break outside the box from the standard winery experience,” says Morgan. “The idea is to always keep things fresh and dynamic.”
This includes Morning Mountain Yoga with local instructor Rachelle Welda scheduled 10 am to 11 am, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, July and August. Classes are drop-in only, $15 per person with a private wine tasting post practice.
Winery hours are 11 am to 6 pm daily and extended to 7 pm on Friday and Saturday.