River Stone Estate Winery is a cornerstone of the Osoyoos wine scene, offering a unique blend of quality wines and a commitment to sustainable practices. This winery is a journey into the middle of one of Canada's most compelling wine regions.
History and Background
River Stone Estate Winery was founded in 2003 by Ted and Lorraine Kane, who brought a passion for viticulture and a vision of creating exceptional wines. Starting with planting their first vines, the Kanes set out to produce wines that reflect the unique terroir of Osoyoos. Over the years, the winery has grown significantly, marking key milestones such as releasing its first vintage and receiving numerous awards.
River Stone has become a respected name in the wine industry since its humble beginnings. The commitment to quality and authenticity has driven the winery's success, allowing it to establish a local and international presence. Today, River Stone continues to innovate while staying true to its roots.
Vineyard and Wine Production
River Stone's vineyard covers 9 acres on a south-facing slope, ideal for growing various grapes. The vineyard is home to Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer. These grapes benefit from the region's hot, dry climate and unique soil composition, which contribute to the distinctive flavours of the wines.
Sustainability is at the core of River Stone's farming practices. The winery uses minimal chemicals, conserves water, and promotes biodiversity within the vineyard. This approach not only supports the environment but also enhances the quality of the grapes. The wine production process is meticulous, involving hand-harvesting, small-lot fermentation, and aging in French oak barrels. This careful attention to detail results in wines that truly capture the nature of Osoyoos.
Among River Stone's offerings are several signature wines. Stones Throw is a Bordeaux-style blend known for its rich, complex flavours. Splash, a white blend, is celebrated for its crisp, refreshing taste. Corner Stone is a premium red blend, showcasing the winery's dedication to excellence.
Tasting Room and Visitor Experience
River Stone Estate Winery in Oliver, BC, offers three distinct wine-tasting experiences that cater to different preferences and interests.
Taste the Terroir Experience: This introductory tasting includes four wines guided by knowledgeable wine ambassadors in the wine shop or tasting garden. The experience, lasting 15-30 minutes, costs $10 plus tax and is free for wine club members. Guests can add a 'Grab & Graze' pack featuring charcuterie, cheeses, and two mini wine bottles.
Garden View Seated Tasting: This 45-60 minute session offers a relaxed, seated tasting of five wines from River Stone's portfolio. Conducted in a scenic garden setting overlooking the vineyard, it provides insights into the winery's story and winemaking practices. The cost is $25 plus tax, with a 10% discount for wine club members. Guests can enhance their experience with a charcuterie board or a 'Grab & Graze' pack.
Vineyard Tour & Tasting: This private, guided tour takes guests through the River Rock Vineyard. Over 60-75 minutes, participants sample specially curated wines in an engraved keepsake glass while learning about viticulture and winemaking practices. The tour costs $30 plus tax, with a 10% discount for wine club members, and includes an optional 'Grab & Graze' pack.
These experiences at River Stone Estate Winery offer a comprehensive exploration of their wines and the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley.
Awards and Recognition
River Stone Estate Winery has earned numerous awards and accolades, underscoring its commitment to quality. The winery's wines have received gold medals at the All-Canadian Wine Championships and silver medals at the WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada. These awards are a demonstration of the skill and dedication of the winemaking team.
In addition to these awards, River Stone has been featured in prominent wine publications such as Wine Spectator and Decanter. This recognition has helped to elevate the winery's reputation and attract wine enthusiasts from around the world. The impact of these accolades is evident in the growing number of visitors to the winery and the increasing demand for its wines.
Community Engagement and Events
The winery hosts various events throughout the year, including seasonal wine release parties and exclusive wine club member events. These gatherings allow wine lovers to connect with the winemaking team, explore new releases, and enjoy the beautiful vineyard setting. River Stone's engagement with the community and its commitment to creating memorable experiences for visitors are critical elements of its success.
Conclusion
River Stone Estate Winery is vital to the Osoyoos wine region and is known for its dedication to quality and sustainability. River Stone offers a unique glimpse into winemaking in one of Canada's most celebrated wine regions.
