Vogue names B.C.'s Okanagan one of 12 'underrated wine regions' worth visiting
Many Canadians already know B.C.'s Okanagan Valley as a sunny and scenic destination for wine tourism – but the region is enjoying new international attention thanks to a shout out in Vogue.
The fashion and lifestyle publication listed the Okanagan Valley among 12 "underrated wine regions" worth visiting this fall, along with such far-off locales as Chinon, France and Puglia, Italy.
Explaining the Okanagan's appeal, Juliet Wine co-founder Allison Luvera told Vogue the region has been producing "world-class wines" that mostly remain within our borders.
"It's a relatively new winemaking area and much of the wine produced here is consumed within Canada, leaving the region unknown to wine lovers in other countries," Luvera said.
"However, its high caliber wines coupled with the stunning natural beauty of the region have attracted top winemakers from France, New Zealand, and South Africa, so awareness is on the rise."
The expert also noted the bounty of outdoor activities available in the Okanagan, including hiking, biking, kayaking and otherwise exploring the semi-arid shrubland often referred to as Canada's only desert.
Vogue named-dropped a handful of local wineries as well, including Painted Rock – which was a welcome surprise to proprietor John Skinner, who has been working hard to win over new fans around the world.
"I've always said a reputation has to be earned and not assumed," said Skinner. "To have somebody come here and take notice is really flattering."
While the Okanagan's wine industry has grown by leaps and bounds over the years, Skinner said the publication's label that it remains an "underrated" gem was fair.
"We're on some radars in the U.K. but the U.S. market is difficult because they've got a very close and competitive industry as well," he said.
"To have someone come and make an assessment on their own that we're worth it is just immeasurably important," he added. "We can say we're good, but someone has to come here and see it for themselves."
The tasting room at Painted Rock is already closed for 2022 – the result of a very busy season with high demand, Skinner said – but the winery hopes to expand its operations with an earlier opening and a later close next year.
Vogue also named Quail's Gate and Okanagan Crush Pad as must-see locations when visiting the region.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
2 dead, third in critical condition after attack in Kingston, Ont., suspect arrested
Two people are dead and a third suffered life-threatening injuries following an attack at an encampment in Kingston, Ont., Thursday. A suspect has been arrested following a multi-hour standoff.
B.C. will scrap carbon tax if feds remove requirement: Eby
British Columbia's premier says the province will end the consumer carbon tax if the federal government removes the legal requirement to have one.
Actor Chad McQueen, son of Steve McQueen, dies at 63
Chad McQueen, an actor known for his performances in the 'Karate Kid' movies and the son of the late actor and race car driver Steve McQueen, has died. He was 63.
Family of Sikh man speaks out against Toronto-area hospital after beard shaved
The family of a Sikh man from Brampton is seeking an apology, an explanation, and a promise to do better from the local hospital network after they say the facial hair of their loved one was removed without their consent.
Ottawa resident who tested positive for mosquito-borne virus dies, public health says
An Ottawa resident who died of a viral encephalitis this summer tested positive for the mosquito-borne virus eastern equine encephalitis (EEEV), the first human case of the virus in Ottawa.
Trump rules out another debate against Harris as her campaign announces US$47M haul in hours afterward
Donald Trump on Thursday ruled out another presidential debate against Kamala Harris as her campaign announced a massive fundraising haul in the hours after the two candidates met on stage.
'Keep your bags packed': Consul general grilled over $9M NYC condo purchase
After weeks of pressure, Canada's consul general Tom Clark is testifying on Thursday before a House of Commons committee about the purchase of his new official residence in New York that generated a lot of political attention over the summer.
NEW N.B. premier's asylum seeker comments spark controversy
Claims from New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs that Ottawa wants to force the province to take in 4,600 asylum seekers are 'largely fictitious,' says federal Immigration Minister Marc Miller.
TIFF pauses screenings of documentary about Russian soldiers due to 'significant threats'
The Toronto Film Festival says it has been forced to pause the screenings of a documentary about Russian soldiers this weekend, citing 'significant threats to festival operations and public safety.'