On a recent Zufall adventure we found ourselves in Osoyoos, BC. It was a scorching hot day in the desert and while a dip in the lake seemed tempting the variety of wineries we passed along HWY 3 had been tempting us for longer. It was late afternoon, but we still managed to visit two tasting rooms, all with in a few kilometers from the downtown area.
View from Twisted Tree. Credit: Twisted Tree
The first on the list was Twisted Tree, a relatively new winery (established in 2004) just a few minutes North East of Osoyoos on Hwy 3. The tasting room had a real Southern French flare and we soon found out why. All of their varietals are from France. We tried three whites, two of which were blends. We are not usually Chardonnay lovers, but theirs was a subtle Chard, its oaky-ness softened by a hint of honey. That was the bottle we bought.
Our next stop was just east on the East Bench above Lake Osoyoos, and is quite a bit more established. Nk’Mip Cellars is conveniently located just up the hill from the campground we were staying at giving us a gorgeous view of the vineyard (planted in 1968) rolling down to the lake. The winery is owned by the Osoyoos Indian Band and is adjacent to the still expanding Spirit Ridge Resort and Spa.
Patio with a view at Nk'Mip Cellars. Credit: Nk'Mip Cellars
Nestled into the dusty hill, the property boasts a contemporarily styled dining room, an outdoor patio bistro (with overhead mist jets – a delight on those punishing desert days) a pool (check into a cabana for the afternoon), golf, and some education with the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre. It’s a lovely resort with stylish, spacious suites and well laid out villas with a kitchen for extended stays or families. Plus, the place is riddled with metal sculptures…but back to the wine. We’ve been fans of this vintner for some time. Tim is particular to the Qwam Qwmt Merlot but this time around we picked up the Reisling.
Nothing tops off a hot, dry day in sagebrush country like a crisp glass of icy wine. What a treat that we rolled our way to this great, yet under appreciated, corner of BC’s wine country.
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