Robert Bell's Wines of Canada

Okanagan Trip 2020

Day 6

clos du soleil

The Similkameen Valley runs from the desert like region of Osoyoos along Highway 3 to the historic town of Princeton, some 100 km (60 mi) away, while the Okanagan Valley stretches some 250 km (155 mi) starting at Osoyoos and making its way north to Enderby. The Similkameen is historically known for its gold mines, western heritage and ranching. The city of Keremos is known as the Fruit Stand Capital of Canada.

While the Okanagan Valley's terrois is based on an elevation of 351 metres (1152 ft) the Similkameen valley's elevation is 380 metres (1300 ft.) affording it slightly cooler evenings but still maintaining the desert heat for which the area is famous during the summer months.

There are number wineries in the valley and more on the way. Time allowed us only time to visit two of the wineres Clos du Soleil winery and Corcelettes Estate Winery.

Setting up our table

Our first stop was Clos du Soleil a very busy winery. It was pick up day for members. However, we were quickly greeted by staff and our outdoor table was being prepared for our tasting experience. The young lady doing our tasting was extemly pleasant and knowledgable, It was a great experience.

Clos du Soleil present an truley fine cellar of wines. We could have taken home a case of each and every wine.

The Griss Mill Gardens

With a little time to spare between our next appointment we stopped by the Griss Mill Gardens. The Grist Mill and Gardens Historic Site, located in the Similkameen River Valley near the Village of Keremeos, is a heritage site owned by the Province of British Columbia.

The next stop Corcelettes Estate Winery, A true sucess story. From a small family run out of their home to the Similkameen's most noted winery. The original Corcelettes winery was opened in 2013 on a three-acre vineyard near Cawston by Urs and Barbara Baessler and their winemaker son, Charlie. They now have over 21 acrea planted.

We founded our way to the elevated tasting room and was quickly spotted by Jesce Baessler. Jesce directed us to the a table on the deck over looking the vineyard.

The view from Corcelettes tasting room - photo by Barbara Bell

Jesce Baessler

As our tasting experience began the winds picked up and provided some exciting moments. No glasses were broken . We did not let the winds distract from a very enjoyable tasting experience and excellent wines.
Charles Baessler the winemaker came by to say hello.

Crowsnest Winery

We ended the day with a very nice diner at Crowsnest Estate Winery. For more click here

The Final Day

Day 1

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