VinAmité Cellars is a boutique winery in the Okanagan Valley that offers a unique blend of traditional French varietals with a contemporary twist. This family-owned winery, south of Oliver on Highway 97, is known for its warm hospitality and commitment to crafting exceptional wines.
History and Background
Founded in 2013 by the Coulombe family, vinAmité Cellars has deep roots in the Okanagan Valley. Before establishing their winery, the Coulombe family sold their grapes to well-known regional wineries. Their decision to create vinAmité Cellars allowed them to bring their grapes full circle, from vine to bottle, under their label.
The name "vinAmité" reflects the core values of the winery: wine, family, and friendship. These values are evident in every aspect of their operation, from the intimate tasting experiences to the meticulous care given to their vineyards. Over the years, VinAmité has grown in reputation, and it is known for its balanced wines that combine Old World techniques with New World innovation.
Vineyard and Wine Production
VinAmité Cellars manages a small, sustainable vineyard that benefits from the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley. The vineyard grows various grapes, including Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Gamay Noir, Cabernet Franc, and the Bordeaux blend known as the Compass. Each varietal is carefully cultivated to express the distinct characteristics of the region.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of vinAmité's farming practices. The winery employs minimal intervention techniques, focusing on natural vineyard management to maintain the health of the vines and soil. The wine production process is equally meticulous, involving hand-harvesting, precise fermentation, and aging in a mix of new and used French oak barrels.
Their signature wines, such as the Compass blend and Gamay Noir, are celebrated for their balance and complexity. The Compass, a Bordeaux-style blend, showcases the depth and richness of the Okanagan Valley, while the Gamay Noir offers a lighter, fruit-forward profile perfect for casual sipping.
Tasting Room and Visitor Experience
The tasting room at vinAmité Cellars is designed as a cozy wine lounge, offering a relaxed environment for visitors to enjoy their wines. Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the tasting room does not require reservations, making it easy for guests to drop in and experience the wines.
Visitors can choose from various tasting options, including standard flights, private tastings, and special events. Each tasting is conducted in a friendly and informative manner, often by members of the Coulombe family.
In addition to wine tastings, the lounge offers a selection of small appetizers designed to complement the wines. Their deli offers grab-and-go boxes filled with meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. Guests can relax indoors or on the outdoor patio, enjoying the beautiful views of the vineyard and the surrounding landscape.
Guests can find cookbooks, wine guides, and food and wine pairing books for sale in The Library. The Pantry also offers house-made wine jellies, compotes, oils, vinegar, and everything you need to accompany indulging in wine, meats, and cheeses. Most everything sold here is Canadian-grown and made.
Conclusion
VinAmité Cellars is a significant player in the Okanagan Valley wine industry and is known for its dedication to quality, sustainability, and community. Visiting vinAmité offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the region's best wines in a welcoming and intimate environment. VinAmité Cellars promises a memorable and enriching experience.
