Tracy Clark
Consistency and quality are two words that have echoed throughout the 2014 vintage - and the year’s not over yet.
Relatively stable temperatures, ample sunlight and little precipitation meant viticulturists and winemakers were breathing fairly easy as they brought in fruit during crush this fall.
While 2013 had a similarly good start, heavy rains in September resulted in both rot and pest concerns. This year, September and October brought much dryer and hotter conditions, allowing the fruit to develop phenolic ripeness.
"All in all I would say 2014 is lining up to be one of the best ever in the South Okanagan,” said winemaker Andrew Windsor from Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, whose optimism was echoed by many.
Winemakers had another reason to “sing”, according to Ezra Cipes, CEO of Summerhill Pyramid Winery, when the Icewine harvest began November 12, directly on the heels of the table wine grape harvest in the Okanagan Valley. The early timing of the freeze meant that fruit had suffered little damage. With a fantastic growing season preceding the Icewine harvest, the term “liquid gold” will be a perfect description for 2014’s Icewine.
“This is a blessed vintage," said Cipes.
The buzz of a great season spilled into all aspects of the BC wine industry. Many wineries reported record sales and visitors in their tasting rooms as tourists flocked to wine country to sip and sample their way through BC VQA wine.
New this year was the ability to taste and purchase 100 per cent BC wine, along with 100 per cent BC beer and spirits, at farmers’ market. Throughout the province, 43 markets featured liquor sampling and sales. BC wineries said it provided both a great sales opportunity, and a marketing opportunity. That success was echoed by the market organizers as well, who reported an increase in traffic at markets throughout BC in 2014.
The enthusiasm for BC VQA wine also spilled over the border as Wines of British Columbia were picked up in Whole Foods Markets in Washington and Oregon. The new program saw eight BC VQA wines featured in 15 stores throughout the two states.
Even with the dip in temperatures and the onslaught of winter, the momentum of the season is not showing signs of slowing. Winter wine touring season is getting underway with numerous events and activities for travelers to take in. It’s the perfect time of year to visit wine country without fighting crowds for space at tasting room bars.
Seasonal events, taking place before and after the holidays, invite travelers to experience winter in BC wine country, enjoying perfect BC VQA wine and food pairings, shopping for Christmas holiday gifts and tasting some of BC’s most recently released winter wines. ■
Visit winebc.com for winery tasting room hours and exciting events throughout the cooler months. Also be sure to follow Wines of British Columbia on Facebook.
Tracy Clark is the Communications Manager for the BC Wine Institute. The BCWI represents 119 winery members and 17 grape growing partners that represent 95% of the province’s total wine production and produce 88% of wine production made from 100% B.C. grapes.
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