2013 May be one of the best vintages ever in the Okanagan. It's an exciting time to visit.

Another spectacular September weekend in the Okanagan. Every visit, it's better. More and better wines, young exciting chefs and farmers growing everything imaginable.  The vineyards had people all over them, the vines were heavy with red grapes, there were bins of white grapes all over the place and the smell of fruit in the air.

We started out early and were happy and hungry when we arrived at Miradoro Restaurant at Tinhorn Creek.  We had a remarkable meal of steamed clams in white wine,  olive oil poached salmon with wheat berry salad and chocolate mousse with house made sponge toffee.  Our table on the patio had a lovely view of the valley looking south towards Osoyoos.  This was our second visit to Miradoro.  The first time they had just opened, we were with a large group and it was disappointing.  We've been hearing good things ever since and this meal had great food and warm friendly service.  Very nice indeed.

We stopped at Blue Mountain Winery to stock up for Christmas with sparkling wines.  I have friends that will be happy to read that.  I believe Blue Mountain has some of the best value wines in the Okanagan.  The Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris are among my favourites.

We were in the Okanagan to attend the opening of Painted Rock's new beautiful tasting room.  It's a bright white building where the wine is the visual highlight.  Dark Red Icon and golden Chardonnay look equally good against the white backdrop. They tasted mighty fine too.  

The next day we were sadly heading home but we managed to stop at a couple of new wineries.  Intersection Winery in Oliver had a Sauvignon Blanc and a blend called Milepost Red  that we thought were worth buying.  I liked the friendly, simple tasting room and look forward to trying a glass of the wine.


Our final stop was at Covert 
Winery and Farm.  We left with several wines and some nice looking produce.  I'm reluctant to state any strong opinions on a wine based on a tiny taste so can only say that at both Intersection and Covert Wines I bought wines and I'm looking forward to drinking a glass to see if I want to buy more.  It takes a better palate than mine to judge a wine based on a sip.

One night is not enough at this very exciting time of year.  There is so much more I want to see and do.  Until next trip.