You could say that Oliver is big on wine, but it’s the smaller wineries here that have most shaped this small town’s distinctive character and culture, and truly earned it the moniker of Canada’s Wine Capital.
In the north of Oliver, right off the highway as one drives south from Penticton, sits the perfect stepping stone for any wine venture into this internationally celebrated region.
River Stone Winery is perched atop a small hill and watched over by what might very well be some of the friendliest winery dogs in the whole of the Okanagan. The winery is lined by carefully manicured gardens that are flanked by vineyards, both of which envelop a serene little patio.
Award Winning Wines
Specializing in the big red wines, for which Oliver is famous, this scenic little winery offers an impressive portfolio of award-winning classics such as Cabernet Franc and Merlot as well as two distinctly different versions of the Bordeaux-style blend, the Corner Stone, as well as the Stone’s Throw – so named because all the grapes used for blending are grown within a stone’s throw of each other. But while this family-run winery is best known for its full-bodied reds, it also offers a diverse selection of white wines as well as a Malbec Rosé for those extra hot Okanagan days. This beautiful little corner of Oliver is best appreciated with friends, sipping a glass of sparkling white Merlot at a picnic in the garden, while the quiet tumble of the river fills the momentary lulls in conversation.
2017 Sparkling White Merlot
The name alone likely made you look twice. Who’s ever heard of a white Merlot before! This wonderful, effervescent summer wine is off-dry to the palate with subtle notes of stone fruits balanced with an herbal nose. Enjoy!