Written by David Wylie
Great wine and a live concert are the perfect pairing. Tinhorn Creek Vineyards knows this first-hand. The Oliver winery is well known for its popular summer Canadian Concert Series. Performances are under the stars in a spectacular outdoor amphitheater. It’s a one-of-a-kind venue and Tinhorn Creek handpicks some of the best new Canadian talent every year. Tickets to the shows range from $35-$45.
The 2019 Lineup
May 25 — The Matinée: This Vancouver band got its start writing songs in a rustic cabin on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. Since then, The Matinée has evolved to a roots and rock band with a following across North America.
June 22 — Coco Jafro: Describing themselves as a “revelation for a revolution,” Coco Jafro is a fusion of Afro-Funk-Latin-Soul unlocking the desire to move with abandon. They create a unique tapestry of sounds that captures the pulse, energy and vibrancy of innovative world music.
July 27 — Kasador: Kingston-based, alt-rock outfit Kasador spent their first three years on the road, earning a reputation for high-energy live performances. Duelling vocals and dynamic guitars are backed by rock and funk bass. Their latest album is produced in part by Rob Baker and Gord Sinclair of The Tragically Hip.
August 24 — The Julian Taylor Band: The Julian Taylor Band (JTB) is the best Toronto band you’ve never heard. A box of memorabilia from his mom’s attic led Julian Taylor to self-reflection that resulted in the band’s most personal record to date, Avalanche. The 40-year-old guitarist, of mixed Mohawk and African-Canadian heritage, has had a rich life both off and on stage throughout his career so far.
September 14 — The winery always ends with a bang, and its 2019 headliner will be Bedouin Soundclash. The well-known Canadian reggae-rock band is back from a lengthy hiatus, releasing a new album October 4 called Mass. Don’t miss seeing them live. Tickets are $75. Shuttles to and from shows will be available from Penticton and Osoyoos for each concert; they are $20, return trip and include a glass of wine at the concert.
Kick off your shoes and dance at Tinhorn this summer. But if you can’t make it out for one of the concerts, be sure to come by for a tour and taste or enjoy the happy hour every Friday afternoon from 4 pm to 6 pm, June through August.
Season Pass
The $140 Season Pass is available until mid-May and includes one ticket for each concert May 25, June 22, July 27 and August 24. It excludes the grand finale on Sept. 14. Student tickets are also available. The most updated music info can be found at tinhorn.com/Concerts.
Dinner and a Show
Make it dinner and a show by booking a concert-night patio dinner package at the Miradoro Restaurant. (Check with Tinhorn for details. Concert tickets need to be purchased separately.) With its panoramic views, clean lines and a comfortable atmosphere, Miradoro features locally sourced ingredients with a hint of Mediterranean on the palate.
The restaurant won the 2019 Open Table Diners Choice Award for best ambiance, scenic view, outdoor eating and notable wine list. There’s a new tapas menu available from 3 pm to 5 pm.
The food and wine pairing is a memorable and mouth-watering experience. Tinhorn Creek wines are paired with dishes from Chef Jeff Van Geest and his team. There is a three-course lunch paired with seven varietal wines for $75. They also serve a five-course dinner paired with nine reserve wines, at $165. The costs include tax and tip. Reservations are required, with a minimum group of 10. Be sure to book at least 48 hours in advance.
Mark Your Calendar:
• The Tinhorn Creek 25th Anniversary Dinner is June 1.
• Father’s Day is June 17th. Tinhorn is a great way to treat Dad to dinner and wine after a round of golf at the nearby Fairview course.
