The Similkameen Valley – Discovered By The World!?

BC’s Similkameen Valley has often played second fiddle to the bigger and more established Okanagan Valley. Now, it’s time to shine!

A recent article from Decanter Magazine called the Similkameen one of Canada’s best kept secrets and showered praise on its wines. Also, this is not the first time that the internationally renowned publication has mentioned the region. Last year, a regular contributor, Michaela Morris, assessed many of the region’s notable Syrahs.

The valley boasts stunning mountains with alluvial fans (or talus slopes) that inform their rugged terroir. It’s nothing less than breathtaking. You may also notice how hot it is in the summer, but it’s also freezing in the winter. This region is known for a majorly big diurnal range – meaning the difference in temperature from day to night. This temperature shift and other geographical features create the unique terroir and tastes you find here!

Several wineries have stood out: – Orofino, Corcelettes, Clos Du Soleil and Seven Stones to name a few!

Bud break in the Similkameen is earlier than in the Okanagan … most of the time. It’s also an organic paradise as most vineyards and orchards are manually maintained, it’s dry and there’s lots of wind. These factors indicate little influence from pests and disease that would thrive in a more static, humid climate. So cool! Naturally organic!

Don’t forget to add a day into your Okanagan wine tour for the Similkameen Valley.

Cheers!