We had a fun week meeting up with former Opimian Board members from across Canada in Osoyoos, BC. We used that as our base and went out discovering and revisiting wineries in the general area.

June 12

We start the day driving from Kelowna to the Similkameen Valley. We meet up with Gerry and Joanne and start the wine tastings. First up is Vanessa Vineyard. We liked their wines and of course bought a few bottles. Then over to Clos du Soleil before taking the grid road over the mountain (eventually turning into Fairview road) to the Okanagan Valley. We have lunch at the Fairview golf course. After lunch, we stop at Fairview cellars to do a tasting. We are wanting to see how the winery is doing with the new owners (bought from Bill Eggert) and are pleased to say that the wines are still delicious. We have an excellent tasting and continue on to Osoyoos to check into the Watermark Hotel. We connect with everyone some of which we have not seen for several years. Great visit.

June 13

The day starts with a tasting at Desert Hills then La Vieux Pin. Lunch at Terrafina restaurant at Hester Creek Winery and finishes at Gold Hill winery. At Desert Hills, we hear how the Syrah vineyard had major winter kill from the cold snap in November 2022.

June 14

Life is tough – another day of wine tasting starting with the Naramata Bench – La Frenz, Van Westen, lunch at Hillside Bistro, Roche and finish with Pentage on the east side of Skaha Lake.

June 15

Last day of touring starting with Blasted Church with absolutely incredible views and then Meyer Family Vineyards. Lunch at Nighthawk kitchen and Bistro with delicious pizzas and we finish with Checkmate winery. Back to the hotel for some relaxation before heading to the Backyard Chef for an incredible meal. What a wonderful week with an awesome bunch of friends.

Cheers!