Red Rooster Winery, a renowned name in British Columbia's Okanagan wine region, has shared somber news of its onsite operations closure. The announcement, made on their official Facebook page, attributed the decision to an unprecedented winter calamity that wreaked havoc on their vineyards.
Founded by Beat and Prudence Mahrer, Red Rooster Winery has been a mainstay in the Okanagan wine circuit. It found a new direction in 2005 when acquired by Andrew Peller Limited, a formidable figure in the Canadian wine industry. This move was in line with Andrew Peller's strategic plan to bolster its footprint in the region, evidenced by its series of acquisitions in the years that followed.
The Facebook post from Red Rooster read, “It is with heavy hearts that we share this news. On October 8th, we will be closing onsite operations... caused by an unprecedented winter event that damaged our Okanagan vineyards.” However, the winery was quick to comfort its loyal patrons, assuring them that while the onsite operations might pause, the Red Rooster legacy would persevere. The post continued, “The Red Rooster spirit lives on. We’re committed to delivering the exceptional wines that you know and love.”
Andrew Peller Limited has been proactive in shaping the Okanagan wine landscape. In 2017, the company invested a staggering $95 million in acquiring three premium wineries: Black Hills Estate Winery, Gray Monk Estate Winery, and Tinhorn Creek Vineyards. This move positioned them as BC’s top producer of quality wines. Given their robust resources and passion, there's optimism about Red Rooster Winery navigating this challenge.
John Peller, the CEO of Andrew Peller Limited, once shared his deep-rooted connection with the Okanagan region, noting his grandfather's beginnings there 60 years ago. His reverence for the Valley's potential to produce world-class wines underlines the company's commitment to the region.
In a world grappling with unpredictable climate shifts, Red Rooster Winery's predicament underscores the vulnerabilities faced by agricultural ventures. However, their proactive decision highlights a dedication to preserving the quality and integrity of their wines.
