Desert Hills Estate Winery, located in Oliver, BC, is celebrated for its award-winning wines and dedication to quality. Established in 2003 by the Toor brothers—Randip, Jessie, and Dave—this family-run winery stands out in the Okanagan Valley. It is known for its small-batch production and innovative practices.
A Family's Dream Realized
The story of Desert Hills Estate Winery begins with the Toor brothers, who transformed their passion for viticulture into a thriving family business. The brothers aimed to create a legacy that combined their agricultural roots with a love for winemaking. Starting from scratch, they acquired and developed vineyards on the renowned Golden Mile Bench.
Desert Hills quickly gained recognition from its first vintage releases for its high-quality wines. The brothers' commitment to excellence and hands-on approach have been crucial to their success, establishing Desert Hills as a respected name in the Canadian wine industry.
Vineyards and Terroir
Desert Hills' vineyards are on the Golden Mile Bench, covering approximately 25 acres. This location is ideal for viticulture, featuring a mix of sandy loam and clay soils. The well-draining soil, warm, dry summers, and cool evenings create perfect conditions for growing premium grapes.
The unique terroir of the Golden Mile Bench plays a significant role in the quality of the wines produced at Desert Hills. The area's climate and soil composition suit varietals such as Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These conditions allow the grapes to develop intense flavours and balanced acidity, contributing to the distinct characteristics of Desert Hills' wines.
Crafting Exceptional Wines
Desert Hills Estate Winery is committed to producing top-quality wines through traditional and modern winemaking techniques. The winery's philosophy focuses on minimal intervention, allowing the grapes' natural flavours to shine. This approach ensures that each bottle reflects the unique terroir of the Golden Mile Bench.
The winery's signature wines include a rich, full-bodied Syrah with peppery notes, a complex Bordeaux-style blend called Mirage, and a light, fruity Gamay with a bright finish. These wines have earned numerous awards, including accolades from the BC Wine Awards and Decanter World Wine Awards, underscoring Desert Hills' dedication to excellence.
Tasting Room and Visitor Experience
Desert Hills Estate Winery visitors can enjoy a warm and inviting tasting room that offers stunning views of the vineyards. The tasting room provides a variety of experiences, from standard tastings to private sessions, allowing guests to explore the winery's offerings in a comfortable and relaxed setting.
One of the unique experiences at Desert Hills is the opportunity to participate in barrel tastings and blending sessions. These hands-on activities provide an in-depth look at the winemaking process and allow visitors to engage directly with the winery's craft.
Conclusion
Desert Hills Estate Winery has significantly impacted the Okanagan wine scene through its dedication to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. The Toor brothers' vision and hard work have created a family legacy that demonstrates the potential of Canadian winemaking.
For those seeking a unique and enriching wine experience, visiting Desert Hills offers the chance to explore exceptional wines, learn about sustainable practices, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Golden Mile Bench. Plan your visit to Desert Hills Estate Winery to discover the passion and craftsmanship behind every bottle.
