Platinum Bench Estate Winery and Artisan Bread Co. in Oliver, BC, offers a unique experience that combines the craft of winemaking with the art of baking. Situated on the Black Sage Bench, this family-owned winery has quickly become a favourite for wine and bread enthusiasts.
History and Background
Platinum Bench Winery, established in 2011 by Fiona and Murray, is on Black Sage Road in the Okanagan Valley. The couple, originally from Winnipeg, were inspired to enter the wine industry after a family trip to the area. Despite having no prior experience in viticulture, they sought guidance from renowned winemakers Harry McWatters and Dick Cleave. The location's hot, sandy soils are ideal for cultivating bold red wines, which have become the winery's signature.
In addition to its vineyard, Platinum Bench features an artisan bakery, offering fresh, homemade bread that perfectly complements its wines. This combination of high-quality wine and gourmet bread has made Platinum Bench a unique and popular destination in the Okanagan Valley. The winery's dedication to quality and craftsmanship is evident in its wines and baked goods, creating a memorable experience for visitors.
Vineyards and Terroir
Platinum Bench's vineyard spans 15 acres on the Black Sage Bench, one of the warmest parts of the Okanagan Valley. The sandy soils and hot climate create ideal conditions for growing robust red wines. The region's unique terroir contributes to the intensity and complexity of the wines produced at Platinum Bench. The winery employs sustainable farming methods to ensure the health of the vineyard and the quality of the grapes.
Winemaking Philosophy and Techniques
At Platinum Bench, winemaking is a craft that blends tradition with innovation. Murray Jones oversees the vineyard and winemaking process, focusing on creating wines that express the region's unique characteristics. The winery practices minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes to shine through in each bottle.
Their portfolio includes a variety of reds, whites, and rosé wines, each crafted with meticulous care. Notable wines include Merlot, aged in French oak barrels, and Pinot Gris, known for its crisp, fruit-forward profile.
Signature Wines and Awards
Platinum Bench Winery offers a range of exceptional wines, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Their portfolio includes robust reds such as the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2021 Merlot, known for their rich flavours and complexity. They also produce whites like the 2021 Mur-Fi's White, a blend of Viognier and Chardonnay, celebrated for its light and floral notes. The winery's wines are known for their intense flavours, resulting from the small, concentrated berries used in production.
Platinum Bench Winery has earned several accolades for its wines, reflecting its commitment to quality. The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Block 30, a small-lot premium wine, is noteworthy and has rivalled top Napa Cabs. Their wines consistently receive praise for their depth and balance, solidifying Platinum Bench's reputation as a producer of premium wines in the Okanagan Valley.
Wine Tasting Experience
A visit to Platinum Bench offers more than just a wine tasting; it's an immersive culinary experience. The tasting room pairs each wine with fresh-baked artisan sourdough bread, crafted daily by Fiona Duncan and her team. Visitors can enjoy tastings in the vineyard, featuring four estate-grown wines and four bread samples for $12 per person. The bakery produces a variety of sourdough Epi loaves, each designed to complement specific wines. Varieties include:
- Asiago cheese.
- Double-cream brie with pear preserves.
- Gorgonzola with fig preserves.
- Soppressata with Swiss cheese.
Guests can enjoy their tastings in a relaxed outdoor setting, surrounded by the vineyard's stunning views. The winery also offers local cheeses, preserves, and charcuterie for a complete tasting experience. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.
The tasting room, open daily from May to October, provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere where guests can savour the wines while enjoying the beautiful vineyard views. No reservations are required, making it easy for guests to drop in and enjoy this distinctive wine and bread pairing experience.
The Bakery
The bakery at Platinum Bench Winery is a standout feature, offering freshly baked artisan sourdough bread daily. Master baker Fiona, who honed her skills at the San Francisco Baking Institute, creates delightful flavour combinations that perfectly pair with the winery's wines. The bakery uses six outdoor double ovens, ensuring fresh bread every day.
Visitors can enjoy unique Epi breads such as Double Cream Brie and Pear Preserves, Sopressata and Swiss Cheese, and Chocolate Strawberry Balsamic, each with specific wines. For those of us who will inevitably fall in love with the delicious, freshly baked bread, you can purchase a loaf or two after your wine tasting to take with you on the road. This combination of artisanal bread and premium wines provides a unique tasting experience highlighting the Okanagan Valley's best.
Conclusion
Platinum Bench Estate Winery and Artisan Bread Co. are a unique destination in Oliver, BC, where the love for fine wine and fresh bread come together. A visit to Platinum Bench promises a memorable experience filled with bold flavours and artisanal craftsmanship.
