50th Parallel Estate Winery: Charting a Course for Excellence in Winemaking

The Quintessential Wine Experience at 50th Parallel Estate Winery

50th Parallel Estate Winery, a standout in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, has established itself as a leader in Canadian winemaking. Founded by Curtis Krouzel and Sheri-Lee Turner-Krouzel, this estate winery combines dedication to quality, state-of-the-art architecture, and a comprehensive approach to sustainability. With a range of carefully curated tasting experiences, unique architectural elements, and a team passionate about viticulture, 50th Parallel offers visitors a complete wine experience beyond the bottle.

Vineyard with a Vision

At the same latitude as famous wine regions like Burgundy, 50th Parallel Estate Winery covers 61 acres of carefully planted Pinot Noir and other cool-climate varietals. The vision behind the vineyard is rooted in creating wines that reflect the unique geography and climate of the Okanagan, with an emphasis on crafting premium Pinot Noir, the estate's flagship wine. The vineyard's positioning and the land's natural slope make it ideal for growing these varietals, capturing the sun's intensity and ensuring even ripening. Curtis and Sheri-Lee initially hand-planted the first 10 acres of vines themselves in 2009, setting the foundation for what is now one of Canada's most celebrated vineyards.

The winery's commitment to viticulture extends to its innovative vineyard practices. Curtis engineered specialized planting equipment to accommodate the rocky, steep terrain, allowing the team to expand the vineyard to over 55 acres. The entire property embodies the meticulous planning and vision that drive 50th Parallel's approach to winemaking. This care and foresight are visible from the vine to the glass, making the estate a remarkable blend of nature and human ingenuity.

Unravelling Exquisite Wines

50th Parallel Estate released its first vintage in 2011, a milestone marking years of dedication and planning. The winery's focus on cool-climate grapes is evident in its standout Pinot Noirs, which comprise about 35% of the winery's production. Known for its deep, complex flavours, the Pinot Noir captures the essence of the vineyard's terroir and showcases the benefits of focusing on quality over quantity. The estate also produces a range of crisp, aromatic whites like Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Each wine reflects the unique growing conditions of the estate, with a purity and balance that have earned 50th Parallel accolades both locally and internationally.

Alongside these reds and whites, the winery produces a dry Pinot Noir Rosé, inspired by the styles of Provence and a traditional method of sparkling wine. These wines offer visitors a taste of the estate's versatility, with each varietal carefully crafted to reveal its distinct personality. The vineyard team, led by winemaker Matthew Fortuna, puts immense effort into every step, from grape selection to fermentation, ensuring that each bottle tells the story of the land it came from.

Modern Techniques, Traditional Touch

50th Parallel Estate integrates modern technology with traditional winemaking techniques, maintaining the perfect balance between innovation and respect for age-old viticulture practices. The winery's state-of-the-art gravity flow system minimizes disruption during the winemaking process, preserving the integrity of the grapes and producing wines that are true to their varietal character.

The gravity flow system, a design feature of the winery, underscores the estate's commitment to quality through low-impact production methods. By letting gravity move the wine through various stages of production, the winery reduces the need for mechanical pumps, which can compromise the wine's flavour and texture. This careful attention to detail ensures that each bottle embodies the winery's whole character, reflecting modern craftsmanship and a deep respect for winemaking traditions.

More Than Just Wine

50th Parallel Estate offers more than just wine tastings; it's a destination that combines gourmet dining, breathtaking architecture, and unforgettable wine tours. The Tasting Room provides guests with panoramic views of the estate's vineyards and Lake Okanagan, creating a setting that enhances the experience. For a deeper exploration of the vineyard, the Grape to Glass Tour takes guests through the vineyards and winemaking facilities, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the winery's processes.

The winery's Gravity Lounge is ideal for private events and celebrations, from weddings to corporate gatherings. Its sleek design and location amidst the vineyards make it a sought-after setting for those looking to host an event surrounded by natural beauty. For members of the Unparalleled Club, there are additional perks like exclusive access to events, limited releases, and private tastings, making every visit to the winery feel personalized and unique.

BLOCK ONE: A Dining Experience to Remember

Dining at BLOCK ONE, 50th Parallel's on-site restaurant, is a must try for any visitor. Named after the first vineyard block planted by Curtis and Sheri-Lee in 2009, BLOCK ONE represents the beginnings of the estate and its journey into viticulture. The menu revolves around wood-fired dishes, with a wood stone oven at the centre of the outdoor dining area. This oven brings out the ingredients' natural flavours, creating dishes that pair perfectly with the estate's wines.

The cantilevered design of the outdoor seating area adds a striking architectural element, allowing diners to enjoy views of the vineyards and lake. During colder months, the restaurant moves indoors to a carefully crafted space that reflects the winery's modern yet natural aesthetic. Popular dishes like wood-fired flatbreads and locally sourced produce highlight the region's offerings and bring a sense of place to each plate. Reservations are recommended, as the restaurant's unique setup and high-quality menu attract a steady stream of diners.

Sip, Savour, and Celebrate with 50th Parallel Estate

For those seeking a comprehensive wine experience in the Okanagan, 50th Parallel Estate Winery is a destination that combines passion, innovation, and dedication to quality. The winery's range of tasting experiences, from the Essential Tasting to more immersive tours, gives guests a genuine sense of what makes the winery unique. With its focus on Pinot Noir and a limited selection of cool-climate whites, 50th Parallel crafts wines that reflect the land's natural character, offering a taste of the Okanagan in every glass.

At BLOCK ONE, visitors can explore the art of food and wine pairing, with dishes that complement the estate's wines in a thoughtfully designed setting. The Unparalleled Club offers members a chance to deepen their connection to the winery with exclusive tastings, events, and member-only releases. 50th Parallel Estate Winery is a place to immerse yourself in the winemaking culture and celebrate the Okanagan's beauty. Whether enjoying a bottle on the terrace or taking a tour through the vineyards, visitors are invited to be a part of the winery's journey, one glass at a time.