The confluence of the North and South Thompson rivers has been a crossroads for centuries, if not millennia. As home to modern day Kamloops, it remains an important junction of major road, water and rail links.
Over the last decade Kamloops has also emerged as the anchor of one of BC’s newest of 9 designated wine regions (Geographic Indications). The Thompson Valley is currently home to four established producers and six vineyards totalling 125 acres. And there’s the promise of more to come. The city is an easy, four hour drive via the Coquihalla (Hwy 5) or a quick, 40 minute flight from Vancouver. Hence, It offers a natural jumping off point from which to tour the Thompson Valley.
The Kamloops Wine Trail allows you to explore the dynamic and evolving appellation in one leisurely paced day. Winery touring here is more laid back and less hurried. What’s more, it often includes a chance to meet the families behind the wineries. Above all, a true welcome, terroir-driven wines and genuine hospitality rule!
Thompson Valley: Pioneering Excellence North of 50
Much like neighbouring Okanagan, the Thompson Valley was shaped by glacial activity. Yet the views here tend to be more expansive than ‘down south.’ The dramatic, breath-taking landscape yields rolling sage brush hills, carved hoodoos and meandering rivers, often as not bathed in radiant sunshine.
Once encompassing a massive lake, the valley landscape we see today was carved out by glaciers moving south. The glacial episodes and slow moving meltwaters of the past left deep layers of silt sand and clay. Rich in mineral deposits, they enhance the already desirable “Glacio-lacustrine” soils. High in calcium carbonate, with pockets of limestone, no wonder they’re the envy of grape growers around the world.
Despite being just north of the 50th parallel, the semi-arid Thompson Valley enjoys more than 2,000 hours of sunshine. Not to mention just 9 inches of rain. It sees summer highs of 30C or more and a Growing Degree Day average of 1280 or 166 GDD. That’s the third highest in Canada.
Good diurnals (the crucial difference between daytime highs and night-time lows) deliver characterful acidity. Overall, conditions are ideal for several cool-climate, winter-hardy vinifera and hybrid varieties.
Local micro-climates vary, depending on vineyard location. whether on the North Thompson or South Thompson, or on the south or north side of the river. Other factors include elevation, incline (slope) and aspect to the sun. Increasingly milder winters are occurring due to global warming. Also, evolving technology and improved viticulture provides more opportunities for higher latitude regions to successfully grow premium grapes.
Several factors contribute elegant minerality, depth and character in the wines.
• The Thompson Valley’s east – west orientation.
• Mineral-rich glacial soils with limestone seams.
• Warm days, cool nights and minimal rainfall.
• The lowest humidity of any wine producing region in Canada.
Every year brings increasing recognition to the Kamloops Wine Trail. Reflected in the growing number of awards from Canada’s principal wine competitions, it’s proof positive that the Thompson Valley truly rocks!
Kamloops Wine Trail Wineries
Harper’s Trail Estate Winery
Vicki and Ed Collett planted their first vines in 2008, when they began converting a former alfalfa farm into Kamloops’ first commercial winery. A tip of the Stetson to Thaddeus Harper, it’s named for the legendary cattle drover who founded the famous Gang Ranch. The vineyard and winery sit on a gradual south facing slope on the north shore of the South Thompson River.
I first visited in 2012, on a cold day in January—when Kamloops wine was very much in its infancy. The mercury was pushing below minus 15 C. It was a good introduction to the realities of growing grapes this far north. After more than few trials and some cold weather losses the Colletts settled on their chosen varieties. Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc suggested the best potential. Since then their efforts have more than paid off, particularly with Riesling. Moreover, Cabernet Franc’s inaugural release was a convincing harbinger of things to come.
Last year, winemaker Sébastien Hotte joined the team. Hotte is a graduate of Washington State University. He’s also a certified sommelier from École Hôtelière des Laurentides. Hence, he brings a strong ‘front of house’ connection. He was a sommelier for many of Canada’s leading restaurants—such as Tofino’s Wickaninnish Inn. His winemaking experience ranges from Anthony Buchanan, and Checkmate Winery, to Ursa Major Wines and Ricco Bambino.
As we taste, Hotte tells us he’s excited by the opportunity to guide the winery on its journey to organic grape growing. He also understands the need for attention to soil health and local biodiversity. Harper’s Trail already practices herbicide and pesticide free viticulture. But the winemaker plans to take things to the next level, with full organic certification in 2023.
A few highlights…
Harper’s Trail Pinot Gris 2018 BC VQA Thompson Valley
BC is awash in nondescript offerings of this varietal, but some wineries have found ways to take things to the next level. An exciting burst of pure orchard fruit leads to truly excellent varietal expression. Fresh apple and pear notes on the palate. Nicely balanced fruit, bright acidity and a lingering finish. $18.99 91 pts.
Harper’s Trail Field Blend 2020 BC VQA
Once one of the winery’s well kept secrets but no longer. This blend of mainly Riesling (50%) with Pinot Gris (28%) plus a splash of Chardonnay and Gewürz (5% each) overdelivers. A burst of floral aromatics, stone fruit and mineral notes. $14.99 90 pts.
Harper’s Trail Silver Mane Riesling 2019 BC VQA Thompson Valley
Hints of developing petrol on the nose, tropical and stone fruit. A streak of minerality on the peach and citrus toned palate. Beautifully balanced fruit and acidity. A great example of of what Thompson Valley Riesling can achieve. $20.99 93 pts. (Sold Out)
Harper’s Trail Pioneer Block Riesling 2020 BC VQA Thompson Valley
Up front floral and orchard fruits with some honey notes. A generously textured and well balanced citrus and apricot palate. Good weight and mouthfeel, wrapped in measured acidity through a lengthy end. Complex and layered with excellent aging potential. $20.99 92 pts.
***
Monte Creek Winery
The area’s largest winery to date sits on a bluff that enjoys a commanding view of the South Thompson River and rugged ‘Lions Head’ beyond. Close to the junction of highways One and 97A, Monte Creek has a total of 75 acres of plantings on both shores. Recently added is a significant new vineyard in the Similkameen Valley. The winery (which opened in 2015) grows a mix of vinifera and approved VQA hybrid varieties. It’s the most easterly on the Kamloops Wine Trail.
Visitors to the expansive tasting room with its panoramic views also enjoy al fresco dining in season at The Terrace Restaurant.
Since initial plantings in 2009 Monte Creek’s emphasis has been always on sustainable farming in every aspect. Vines are just one of many activities at the 1,200 acre ranch, which also grows other fruits such as (Haskap berries) and crops. In additon, tt raises cattle and other livestock that graze on native grasses. Also key is the use of organic farming methods wherever possible—including mobile chicken coops.
A new, state-of-the-art, gravity-fed, 15,000 sq.ft new winery building spans three sloped floors. The facility makes use of the hill (on which the complex sits) with some areas partly underground. The tiered design allows for grapes to be unloaded on the top level. They make their way down gently through the winemaking process with minimal handling. Not only will the new building significantly increase overall production but it will also use much less water and electricity.
Also brand new is an impressive, multi-purpose greenhouse (above). It will allow Monte Creek to grow its propagation program as well contribute to the well-being of new vines. Greenhouse time will help healthier plants develop stronger root systems before being planted out. The thermally heated, mainly glass structure will also host educational, culinary and agri-tourism activities. What’s more, it’s also already a highly anticipated events centre.
What to watch for:
Monte Creek Ancient Waters Chardonnay 2019 (Okanagan Valley BC VQA)
Naramata sourced fruit yields citrus and stone fruit aromas. A generous palate of lemon and grapefruit with mineral hints and zest to close. $24.99 90 pts.
Monte Creek Living Land Sparkling (Thompson Valley BC VQA)
The winery’s new branding emphasizes terroir and place. Charmat process from Thompson Valley estate grown La Crescent (75%) and Frontenac Blanc (25%). Floral, stonefruit and tropical notes with a crisp palate against a flinty mineral backdrop. $21.99 90 pts.
Monte Creek Riesling Reserve 2018 (Thompson Valley BC VQA)
Some appealing petrol notes developing on the nose, with orchard fruit and citrus aromas. The peach with lemon lime palate is buoyed by firm acidity with pure fruit flavours. Good mouthfeel, layered and complex.$24.99 92 pts. (Best white wine at 2020 All Canadian Wine Championships.)
Monte Creek Ancient Waters Rosé 2020 (Okanagan Valley BC VQA)
Made by Saignée method from 100 percent Cabernet Franc. Fermented for four months in a sandstone jarre (similar to an amphora). Up front red berry and earthy notes. A well-textured, vibrant palate with savoury and spice notes through a lengthy end. $24.99 91 pts.
Monte Creek Pinot Noir Reserve 2016 (Okanagan Valley BC VQA)
Sourced from The Rise, near Vernon. Wild fermented, 10 months in French oak and stainless steel. Up front vibrant wild red berry and vanilla notes. A generous but focused strawberry and cherry palate. Underpinned by silky tannins, showing spice and cedar hints through the lingering finish. $34.99 92 pts.
***
Privato Vineyard & Winery
Just north of Kamloops, Privato sits on a gentle slope overlooking the North Thompson River. Adding to the winery’s appeal are its immaculate gardens along with the pleasingly detailed tasting room and cellar.
Owners John and Debbie Woodward’s focus on premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir has rewarded them with a string of notable medals. Given the harsh winters, establishing vines can be challenging. Here again, though, perseverance is paying off. While using estate fruit when possible, the Woodwards source premium fruit from small lot growers. Premium sites range from Vernon and Oliver to Naramata and Kaleden. The quality in the bottle is apparent as the continuing awards attest.
To make room for more growth, plans are now underway for expansion. They include a new production facility just behind the existing winery and tasting room.
The prettily landscaped garden is much in demand for weddings and other events. And seasonal celebrations—such as Halloween in the pumpkin patch—are immensely popular.
Recently the family has also established the stand-alone Woodward Cider Co., adjacent to the winery. Styles range from traditional dry and off-dry apple to fruit infused offerings. Several of these have already won awards. Our faves were Blue Tractor and Five Liner (with its cheeky story). No doubt such clever, contemporary and fun labels are also adding to their appeal.
Privato Rosé 2020 BC VQA
A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay yields bright red berry aromas, with the Pinot quite apparent. Medium bodied, juicy palate sports flavours of fresh strawberries with a pleasing earthy edge. Nicely balanced fruit and acidity through the dry finish. 90 pts.
Privato Gewürztraminer 2020 BC VQA
Very typical varietal aromas of rose petal, floral and orchard fruits. Apple, pear and ginger spice notes on the lush, off-dry palate. Textural and elegant with a lovely interplay of fruit teased with spice and sweetness. A delicious example of BC Gewürz. (made from Summerland fruit). $19.99 91 pts.
Privato Woodward Collection Chardonnay 2018 BC VQA
Barrel fermented and French oak aged. Up front vanilla and tropical fruit notes. A generous palate with generous texture and mouthfeel. Hints of nutmeg, and vanilla from well-managed oak through the finish. From 30 year-old vines on Naramata Bench. $28.99 91 pts.
Privato Woodward Collection Tesoro Pinot Noir 2017 BC VQA
100% Pinot Noir, 28 months in French oak. Floral and red berries up front before a medium bodied palate. Nicely balanced fruit and acidity. Dark cherry and some earthy mushroom notes with a pleasing savoury edge wrapped in silky tannins through the finish. Oyama-sourced fruit. $39.99 91 pts
Privato Pinot Noir Grand Reserve 2016 BC VQA
From a superlative vintage, this wine continues to evolve impressively. whole cluster fermented and aged 18 months in French oak. Up front forest floor and earthy notes with red berries. A lovely lighter style. Strawberry and savoury elements superbly balance fruit and spice, silky tannins and great length. Sourced from Lake Country. $59.99 93 pts.
Sagewood Winery
An ‘honorary’ member of Kamloops Wine Trail, tiny Sagewood was Kamloops’ original commercial vineyard. Pioneering Shelley and Doug Wood planted on the north shore of the South Thompson in 2005. Their family estate is home to some 17 varieties including perennially good Ortega and Gewürztraminer, as well as Cabernet Franc and Marechal Foch.
Sagewood owners Doug and Shelly Wood
The very intimate tasting room only holds a handful of people so be prepared to wait outside or taste at the picnic table, in the heart of a gorgeous garden. With limited production, most wines sell out quickly, so plan your visit accordingly.
Of note:
Sagewood Winery Gewürztraminer 2020
Up front tropical aromas with some floral notes followed by a generous palate of lychee, fig and passion fruit with hints of rose petal through the finish. $19.04 90 pts.
Sponsored by Kamloops Wine Trail
Leave A Comment