Similkameen Valley

Overview

The Similkameen Valley runs parallel to the Okanagan in south-central British Columbia, separated from the better-known valley by a range of mountains. The region is drier and windier than the Okanagan, with a high proportion of organic and biodynamic vineyards thanks to conditions that naturally suppress fungal disease.

Vineyards cluster along the Similkameen River near the towns of Cawston and Keremeos. Producers such as Corcelettes Estate, Vanessa Vineyard, and Orofino have shown that the valley can produce structured reds and fresh whites with a distinct mineral edge. The area is also gaining recognition for its stone-fruit orchards and farm-to-table tourism.

Key Varietals

• MerlotA ripe, plush red that benefits from the valley's warm days and well-drained bench lands.
• SyrahA peppery, full-bodied red that has become a Similkameen specialty.
• Cabernet SauvignonA structured red with cassis and herbal notes from the valley's gravelly soils.
• RieslingA high-acid white with citrus and floral aromatics from cooler sites.