The Osoyoos and Oliver region in British Columbia is known for its exceptional wines and stunning vineyards. Several wineries offer exclusive membership programs for those who want to deepen their connection with the wine culture. These memberships provide unique benefits and experiences that go beyond the usual tastings. Here's a detailed look at some of the standout wineries in the region that offer memberships and what makes each of them unique.
Black Hills Estate Winery
Membership Program: The Wine Club at Black Hills Winery offers its members an array of exclusive benefits. Enjoy free shipping on three annual club shipments and a 15% discount on all new releases for the first 30 days, excluding Wine Club allocations. Members gain access to club-exclusive wines and front-of-the-line access to limited releases. An annual VIP tasting for the member and up to three guests is included, along with a complimentary tasting at sister wineries in B.C., such as Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, Gray Monk Estate Winery, and Sandhill Wines. Additional perks include 15% off tickets to on-site signature events, discounts with South Okanagan Driving Services, special offers with Levia Wellness Spa, and partner resort discounts in Osoyoos.
Why It's Special: Black Hills Estate Winery is renowned for its bold and expressive wines, particularly the flagship Nota Bene. Membership provides a closer look at the winemaking process and the opportunity to attend intimate events with winemakers. The winery's beautiful setting, with its modern tasting room and scenic vineyard views, adds to the allure, making each visit a memorable experience.
Hester Creek Estate Winery
Membership Program: Hester Creek Winery's Membership program offers a delightful surprise with automatic quarterly shipments of 6 or 12 bottles delivered directly to your door, with five packages tailored to your taste. Members enjoy complimentary shipping on quarterly packages to select Canadian addresses and earn 10% back in points on wine purchases, which can be redeemed for wine, merchandise, or a stay at the Villa. Complimentary shipping is available at featured times throughout the year, including on additional orders of 12 bottles during quarterly shipments. Members can also earn points through a referral program. Members also gain exclusive access to library vintages and Bench Club-only events.
Why It's Special: Hester Creek combines a rich history with modern luxury. The winery's villa accommodations and the Tuscan-inspired Terrafina restaurant offer an immersive wine-country experience. Membership provides exceptional wines, a sense of community, and personalized service that enhances the overall enjoyment.
Kismet Winery
Membership Program: The Wine Club at Kismet Winery offers two membership options: Connection Club and Devotion Club, each providing unique benefits. The Connection Club includes two annual shipments of six bottles each in May and October at a 10% discount. Members can customize their selections before the auto-ship deadline, with pricing based on chosen bottles. They also enjoy complimentary wine tastings for themselves and three guests and access to Kismet's newsletter and updates.
The Devotion Club features two annual shipments of twelve bottles each in May and October at a 15% discount. Members can customize their shipments and enjoy free shipping on all orders. Additional benefits include 15% off orders, experience packages, and special ticketed events. Devotion Club members have priority access to event tickets, exclusive use of gazebo areas for VIP service, and invitations to pick-up parties. They receive free private tastings, vineyard and winery tours for themselves and three guests by appointment, access to Kismet's library collection, and complimentary chauffeur services within Oliver and Osoyoos.
Why It's Special: Kismet Winery stands out for its unique fusion of Indian cuisine and local wines. The rich flavours of the food pair exceptionally well with the wines, offering a distinctive culinary adventure. The membership experience is enhanced by the winery's lively and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favourite for those looking to explore diverse tastes.
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards
Membership Program: Tinhorn Creek's Wine Club offers three distinct membership options: Reserve Club, Let's Be Franc Club, and Cellar Club, each with unique benefits. Members receive four shipments yearly with a minimum one-year commitment. The Reserve Club includes a mix of Reserve tier wines and allows for customization of six-bottle cases, totalling 24 bottles annually. New members receive a $30 gift code for online orders. The Let's Be Franc Club is perfect for Cabernet Franc enthusiasts, offering 18 bottles annually, including various expressions of this varietal from Tinhorn Creek's portfolio. The Cellar Club provides:
- Full customization.
- Letting members choose any wines from current vintages.
- Totalling 24 bottles annually, with a $20 gift code for online orders.
All members enjoy VIP treatment, with access to limited-release wines, special events, and members-only parties. Additionally, they receive 10% off food at Miradoro Restaurant for up to six people, with preferential seating when available.
Why It's Special: Tinhorn Creek's commitment to sustainability and exceptional quality makes its membership program highly appealing. The estate's stunning views and 100% estate-grown wines create a unique experience. The Miradoro Restaurant further enhances the membership with its elegant and rustic dining options, offering members a well-rounded wine and food experience.
Moon Curser Vineyards
Membership Program: At Moon Curser Vineyards, their wine club offers a unique and laid-back experience, ensuring members and their friends enjoy high-quality wines without the pretence. Members can customize their club shipments to receive only desired wines, adjusting contents before billing. Club discounts provide 10% or 15% off all additional wine purchases beyond the shipments. Free shipping is available for orders of six bottles or more, with subsidized rates for smaller orders. Members also get priority access to new releases and rare small-lot wines, making them feel special. Complimentary wine tastings for the member and three guests are included. Additionally, members might receive exclusive club releases from Moon Curser's secret stash, adding an element of surprise and exclusivity to the membership.
Why It's Special: Moon Curser is known for using old-world grape varieties not typically found in Okanagan. It offers a unique tasting journey. The boutique, family-owned atmosphere adds to the charm, and the winery's intriguing history related to Osoyoos's gold-smuggling past makes it an exciting membership.
Conclusion
The Osoyoos and Oliver region wineries offer diverse and enriching membership programs. These memberships provide more than just access to exclusive wines; they offer unique experiences, special events, and a deeper connection with the winemaking process. From the bold flavours at Black Hills, the historical richness at Hester Creek, the cultural fusion at Kismet, the sustainability at Tinhorn Creek, or the adventurous spirit at Moon Curser, each winery's membership program offers something special for every wine enthusiast.
