Intersection Estate Winery in Oliver, BC, stands out in the renowned Golden Mile wine region. Known for its focus on terroir-driven wines and a unique winemaking philosophy, this winery offers a distinctive experience for wine enthusiasts.
History and Background
Intersection Estate Winery was established in 2009 at the crossroads of Road 8 and Highway 97. The name "Intersection" signifies its geographic location and the blend of lifestyle, cellar practices, and the art and science of winemaking. Founders Bruce Schmidt and Larry Gerelus envisioned a winery that celebrates Oliver's unique terroir and the potential of its vineyards.
Over the years, Intersection has made significant strides in the wine industry. The winery's commitment to hands-on farming and meticulous winemaking has earned it a reputation for producing high-quality wines that reflect the region's character. The winery's journey is marked by continuous improvement and innovation, always striving to showcase the best of what Oliver's Golden Mile offers.
Vineyards and Terroir
The vineyards of Intersection Estate Winery are situated on Oliver's Golden Mile, a region celebrated for its ideal grape-growing conditions. The 10-acre vineyard benefits from a unique combination of intermingling soils, bright morning sun, and more relaxed afternoons. These conditions create a perfect environment for both red and white grape varieties.
The winery employs sustainable and organic farming techniques to maintain the health of the vineyard and the quality of the grapes. The diverse soils and microclimates within the vineyard allow for a range of grape varieties to thrive, including Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Cabernet Franc. This careful attention to the land and its needs ensures that the wines produced are authentic expressions of their terroir.
Winemaking Philosophy and Techniques
At Intersection Estate Winery, the winemaking philosophy revolves around letting the vineyard guide the winemaking process. This approach emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through in the final product. The goal is to create authentic wines of the season, soil, and experience.
The winemaking process at Intersection involves careful vineyard management, hand-harvesting of grapes, and gentle pressing techniques. The winery combines traditional methods and modern technology to produce balanced wines that reflect their origin. The emphasis on low-intervention practices results in wines that are both distinctive and of consistent quality.
Signature Wines and Awards
Intersection Winery offers an impressive range of wines, each reflecting the unique terroir of Oliver's Golden Mile. Their portfolio includes standout reds like Milepost Merlot and Alluvia Merlot and whites like Viognier, Marsanne, and Mile's Edge White. The Milepost Merlot is celebrated for its bright and energetic flavours, while the Alluvia Merlot, a flagship wine, showcases the winery's expertise in crafting complex, well-balanced reds. Like the Viognier and Viognier-Marsanne blend, the whites offer rich textures and fruit flavours, appealing to a wide range of palates.
The winery's dedication to quality is evident in the accolades their wines have received. The 2015 Mile's Edge White earned a Gold Medal at Canada's 2017 National Wine Awards, and the 2016 Unfiltered Merlot received a Platinum Medal at the 2019 WineAlign Awards. These honours highlight Intersection Winery's commitment to excellence and the expressive potential of their vineyards. By producing award-winning wines that capture the nature of their region, Intersection Winery continues to build its reputation as a producer of premium wines in the Okanagan Valley.
Wine Tasting Experience
Visiting Intersection Estate Winery offers more than just a taste of exceptional wines; it's an immersive experience. The tasting room, located just five minutes south of Oliver, provides a welcoming environment for visitors. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the tasting bar offers a range of wines for sampling, with knowledgeable staff to take guests through the tasting experience.
Educational Initiatives
Intersection Estate Winery is home to the Institute Wine School, which is critical in educating the public about wine. The Institute offers daily wine appreciation classes, covering various aspects of wine tasting, production, and appreciation. These classes give visitors a deeper understanding of wine, enhancing their overall experience at the winery.
The educational focus of the winery extends beyond the Institute. Intersection aims to inform and engage visitors through its tastings and tours, fostering a greater appreciation for the art and science of winemaking. This commitment to education sets the winery apart, making it a destination for learning and enjoyment.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vinstitute launched the "Uncork the Sun" podcast in collaboration with Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country. This podcast provides wine education through discussions on viticulture, oenology, and interviews with winemakers. You can listen to the episodes on Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, and other podcast platforms.
Conclusion
Intersection Estate Winery is a standout location for quality and innovation in the Oliver wine region. With its focus on terroir-driven wines, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to education, the winery offers visitors a unique and enriching experience. Intersection Estate Winery invites you to explore its offerings and discover the true nature of Oliver's Golden Mile.
