Culmina Family Estate Winery, located on the Golden Mile Bench in Oliver, BC, is a pioneer in precision viticulture and sustainable wine production. Established in 2007 by Don, Elaine, and Sara Triggs, this winery is dedicated to crafting premium wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley.
A Storied Beginning
Founded by the Triggs family, Culmina Family Estate Winery is the culmination of a lifelong passion for winemaking. Don Triggs, a prominent figure in the Canadian wine industry, envisioned creating a family legacy through wine. He transformed a rugged land on the Golden Mile Bench with his wife Elaine and daughter Sara into a thriving vineyard.
The early years were marked by meticulous planning and hard work, as the family aimed to create wines that could compete on the global stage. The dedication paid off with the release of their first vintages, quickly gaining critical acclaim and establishing Culmina as a producer of high-quality, premium wines.
Vineyards and Terroir
Culmina's vineyards span approximately 56 acres on the Golden Mile Bench, a region renowned for its excellent viticulture conditions. The vineyards benefit from a diverse terroir, with soils composed of gravel, sandy loam, and silt. These well-draining soils, combined with the area's warm days and cool nights, create an ideal environment for growing a variety of grape varietals.
The long growing season in this part of the Okanagan Valley allows the grapes to develop intense flavours and balanced acidity. Culmina focuses on Bordeaux varietals, Riesling and Gruner Veltliner, each of which thrives in the unique conditions of the Golden Mile Bench. The careful selection of vineyard sites and attention to detail in vineyard management ensures that each grape variety expresses its full potential.
Crafting Quality Wines
At Culmina, winemaking is a precise art. The winery employs advanced technology to monitor and manage the vineyards, ensuring optimal growing conditions and minimal intervention. This approach allows the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through, resulting in wines that truly reflect their origin.
The flagship Hypothesis is a Bordeaux-style blend with depth and complexity, rich fruit flavours and a long finish. Decora, a crisp Riesling, showcases the winery's ability to produce elegant white wines. Dilemma, an intricate Chardonnay, balances fruit and oak to create a refined and sophisticated wine.
Tasting Room and Visitor Experience
A modern tasting room with panoramic views of the vineyards greets visitors to Culmina Family Estate Winery. The tasting room's design emphasizes comfort and sophistication, providing an ideal setting for exploring the winery's offerings. Guests can choose from various tasting experiences, including standard tastings, private guided tastings, and exclusive events.
Culmina Family Estate Winery hosts "L'Apéro in the Vineyard" events on July 19th and August 23rd, 2024. This popular event, now in its third season, invites guests to unwind with live music, canapés, and a selection of Culmina's award-winning wines. Set against the stunning backdrop of the South Okanagan, attendees can enjoy the French tradition of "apéro," a casual gathering to relax and socialize at the end of the day. The event takes place from 5-7 pm, and tickets are $40 each. Reservations are required, and availability is limited.
Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives
Innovation and sustainability are at the core of Culmina's operations. The winery uses precision viticulture technology to monitor vine health and soil conditions in real-time, allowing for precise irrigation and nutrient application management. This technology not only enhances grape quality but also supports sustainable farming practices.
Culmina is committed to reducing its environmental impact through organic farming, water conservation efforts, and composting and re-using old materials. The winery's approach to sustainability ensures that it produces high-quality wines while preserving the natural beauty and health of the Golden Mile Bench for future generations.
Conclusion
Culmina Family Estate Winery has significantly impacted the Okanagan wine scene through its commitment to precision viticulture, sustainability, and the production of premium wines. The winery's focus on innovation and excellence has set it apart as a leader in the industry.
For those seeking a unique wine experience, a visit to Culmina offers the chance to explore a range of exceptional wines, learn about cutting-edge vineyard practices, and enjoy the stunning landscape of the Golden Mile Bench. Plan your visit to Culmina Family Estate Winery to discover the dedication and craftsmanship that go into every bottle. With its beautiful setting and award-winning wines, Culmina is a destination that should be noticed.
