Le Vieux Pin Winery, located on the Black Sage Bench in Oliver, British Columbia, blends traditional French winemaking techniques with the unique character of the Okanagan Valley. Established by Sean and Saeedeh Salem, the winery has become a cornerstone of the region's wine industry and is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability.
History and Background
Le Vieux Pin Winery was founded in 2005 by Sean and Saeedeh Salem. Inspired by the old-growth pine tree on the estate, the name "Le Vieux Pin" reflects a vast connection to nature and tradition. The winery released its first vintage in 2005 and opened its tasting room in 2006, quickly gaining a reputation for its elegant wines.
In 2010, Severine Pinte, a Bordeaux-born winemaker with extensive experience, joined the team as a winemaker and viticulturist. Severine's expertise and dedication to sustainable practices have been instrumental in shaping the winery's direction and enhancing the quality of its wines. Her work has garnered numerous accolades and has firmly established Le Vieux Pin as a leader in the Okanagan Valley.
Vineyard and Wine Production
Le Vieux Pin's vineyards cover 50 acres on the Black Sage Bench, known for its ideal growing conditions. The region's high altitude, dry climate, and mineral-rich soils provide a perfect environment for cultivating grapes, including Syrah, Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne.
The winery employs sustainable farming practices, focusing on organic methods and minimal intervention to maintain vine and soil health. Grapes are hand-harvested, fermented with natural yeasts, and aged in French oak barrels to develop complexity and depth. This meticulous process ensures that each Le Vieux Pin wine bottle expresses the vineyard's terroir.
Signature wines include the Equinoxe series, featuring single-varietal wines made from the best grapes in exceptional vintages, and the Cuvée Violette, a Syrah praised for its elegance and finesse. These wines highlight the unique characteristics of the Okanagan Valley and showcase the winemaking expertise of Severine Pinte.
Tasting Room and Visitor Experience
The tasting room at Le Vieux Pin Winery offers a blend of French elegance and modern sophistication, providing a serene environment for wine tasting. Open by appointment, the tasting room offers a range of experiences, from standard tastings to private tours and the exclusive Cellar Chaperone tasting.
Visitors can enjoy a guided tour through the winery's vineyards and cellar, learning about the winemaking process from grape to bottle. The tour includes a curated tasting of their elegant wines, highlighting the unique terroir of the South Okanagan. With knowledgeable staff and a focus on quality, the experience is educational and enjoyable, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
The Wines
Le Vieux Pin Winery in Osoyoos offers a diverse range of wines that showcase the unique terroir of the South Okanagan. Their current releases include the 2021 Cuvée Dorée, a Rhone blend of Roussanne and Viognier, and the 2023 Petit Blanc, a dry aromatic white blend. The winery is known for its high-quality Syrahs, including the 2021 Syrah Cuvée Classique and the 2022 Syrah Cuvée Violette, each offering distinct profiles. Other notable wines include the 2021 Équinoxe Cabernet Franc and the 2023 Vaïla Rosé, made from Pinot Noir.
The winery's portfolio also features exclusive and limited wines such as the 2021 Retouche, a Bordeaux blend, and the 2021 Équinoxe Merlot, highlighting the complexity and depth of their single vineyard Merlot. Le Vieux Pin's dedication to quality and craftsmanship is evident in their meticulous winemaking process, resulting in wines celebrated for their elegance, balance, and expression of the Okanagan terroir.
Awards and Recognition
Le Vieux Pin winery in Osoyoos has earned numerous accolades for its exceptional wines. The 2019 Équinoxe Merlot received 93 points from Gismondi on Wine, praised for its powerful expression and complex plums, blackberries, and cedar flavours. The 2023 Vaïla Rosé was commended by Wine Align for its dry texture and complex nose of red fruits, earning high marks for its excellent length and flavour intensity.
The 2022 Syrah Cuvée Violette received 91 points from Wine Align for its precise expression and balanced profile, showcasing red cherry, sage, and pepper notes. The 2023 Sauvignon Blanc was highlighted by the Globe and Mail for its refreshing citrusy and earthy notes, making it a standout in the South Okanagan region.
These accolades have helped elevate the winery's profile, attracting a global audience. Le Vieux Pin's wines are featured in international Michelin-starred restaurants like the Hakkasan and Beach Blanket Babylon in London. Top wine publications praised them, establishing their status as a premier winery in the Okanagan Valley.
Sustainability
Le Vieux Pin Winery in Osoyoos is dedicated to sustainability, achieving Certified Sustainable status by SWBC in 2021. Their sustainability efforts focus on maintaining healthy soils and ecosystems to ensure vineyard longevity. They employ organic farming, composting, and cover cropping practices to promote soil health and biodiversity. Water management is another crucial aspect, as well as utilizing efficient irrigation systems to minimize water usage. The winery also prioritizes renewable energy, reducing its carbon footprint through solar power and energy-efficient technologies.
Le Vieux Pin is committed to social sustainability by supporting local communities and engaging in fair labour practices. They also strive to reduce waste and recycle materials wherever possible, aiming for a minimal environmental impact in all operations. This comprehensive approach ensures that Le Vieux Pin produces high-quality wines and contributes positively to the environment and society.
Community Engagement and Events
Le Vieux Pin actively participates in local wine festivals and collaborates with businesses to promote the Okanagan Valley as a leading wine destination. The winery hosts seasonal events and exclusive gatherings for wine club members, providing opportunities for guests to engage with the winemaking process and explore new releases.
The winery's commitment to the community extends beyond events, supporting local initiatives and contributing to the region's economic development. This involvement fosters a sense of connection and shared purpose within the Okanagan Valley, enhancing the overall wine experience for visitors.
Conclusion
Le Vieux Pin Winery is a significant contributor to the Okanagan Valley's wine industry and is known for its dedication to quality, sustainability, and community. Visiting Le Vieux Pin offers a unique opportunity to experience exceptional wines in a welcoming and elegant setting. Le Vieux Pin Winery promises a memorable and enriching experience.
