La Stella Winery in Osoyoos, BC, offers a unique blend of Italian inspiration and Okanagan terroir, crafting wines that embody "la dolce vita." Situated on the east bench of Osoyoos Lake, La Stella's dedication to quality and tradition makes it a standout in the Canadian wine landscape.
History and Background
Founded in 2006 by Sean and Saeedeh Salem, La Stella Winery was born out of a vision to bring the nature of Italian winemaking to the Okanagan Valley. The name "La Stella" (Italian for "the star") reflects the starry nights of Osoyoos and the winery's aim to shine brightly in the world of fine wines. The architecture, designed by Foad Rafii, draws inspiration from Tuscany, creating a charming setting that complements the winery's ethos.
The Salem family's philosophy revolves around "la dolce vita" – celebrating the good life with fine wine, food, and music. This vision is evident in every aspect of the winery, from the meticulously designed villa to the thoughtfully crafted wines. Over the years, La Stella has become a symbol of excellence, known for its commitment to producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines.
Vineyards and Terroir
La Stella's vineyards are located on the east bench of Osoyoos Lake, an area renowned for its unique microclimate and diverse soil composition. The region benefits from warm days and cool nights, ideal grape-growing conditions. The soil, rich in minerals, contributes to the complexity and depth of the wines produced here.
Sustainability is at the centre of La Stella's vineyard management. The winery employs organic farming practices to maintain the health of the vines and the environment. These practices include water conservation, minimal use of chemicals, and promoting biodiversity within the vineyard. The result is a range of wines that reflect the unique terroir and align with modern sustainable viticulture.
Winemaking Philosophy and Techniques
La Stella Winery blends traditional winemaking methods with innovative techniques to create wines that are authentic expressions of their origin. Severine Pinte, a seasoned winemaker with experience in France and Canada, leads the winemaking process. Since joining La Stella in 2010, Pinte has focused on crafting wines that highlight the distinct characteristics of each vineyard site.
The winery emphasizes minimal intervention in the winemaking process, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes to shine through. Techniques such as whole-cluster fermentation and concrete eggs for aging are employed to enhance the complexity and character of the wines. This approach ensures that each bottle of La Stella wine reflects the vineyard's unique terroir and the winemaker's expertise.
Signature Wines and Awards
La Stella Winery offers a range of exceptional wines, each crafted to reflect the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley. Their collection includes whites like the 2022 Vivace Pinot Grigio and the 2023 Moscato d'Osoyoos. They also produce sophisticated reds such as the 2020 Espressivo, a Cabernet-dominant blend, and the 2021 Allegretto "Pie Franco" Merlot. Their flagship wine, the 2020 Maestoso "Solo" Merlot, exemplifies their commitment to quality and excellence.
La Stella's wines have received numerous awards and accolades, showcasing their dedication to producing top-tier wines. The 2019 Maestoso "Solo" Merlot has been mainly celebrated, earning high praise for its depth and complexity. These accolades reflect La Stella's expertise and passion for winemaking, cementing their reputation as a leading winery in the Okanagan Valley.
Wine Tasting Experience
La Stella Winery offers a unique and personalized tasting experience set against the stunning backdrop of Osoyoos, BC. The tasting room provides an opportunity to explore their meticulously crafted wines through guided tastings, including both Classic and Premium flights. The Classic flight, priced at $10, features a selection of their signature wines, while the Premium flight, costing $25, offers a more in-depth tasting of their exclusive and limited-edition wines.
Appointments for tastings are recommended and can be booked online, ensuring a seamless and intimate experience. La Stella also supports the Canucks Autism Network and environmental sustainability by donating a portion of the tasting fees. The picnic area allows visitors to enjoy their snacks while savouring a flight of wines, making the tasting experience both relaxed and memorable.
Conclusion
With a focus on high-quality, handcrafted wines, the winery's diverse portfolio includes celebrated varietals that reflect the region's unique terroir. The tasting room provides an intimate setting for guests to explore classic and premium wine flights, complemented by stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere. La Stella Winery promises a memorable journey through the flavours of Italy in a stunning Canadian landscape.
