In Kelowna, a story unfolds in every vineyard, especially those nurtured by family hands. Explore Kelowna's family-owned wineries.
Quails' Gate Winery
Quails' Gate Winery is from the enduring legacy of the Stewart family. The story began over a century ago, with Richard Stewart Sr., an Irish horticulturist, who planted the first seeds of this legacy in 1908. Today, this winery, founded in 1989 by Dick Stewart's son, Ben, and his wife, Ruth, thrives as one of Kelowna’s most beloved vineyards. Quails' Gate is famed for its wins, as well as its Old Vines Restaurant, which is renowned for its sumptuous cuisine and breathtaking views of the lake. Here, guests can savour both the flavours of the vineyard and the scenic beauty that surrounds them.
The winery’s commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every aspect, from the meticulous care of their vines to the warm, inviting atmosphere they create for every visitor. It's a place where time slows down, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience of fine wine and the natural beauty of Kelowna.
The Hatch
The Hatch is a winery that epitomizes the modern, artistic spirit of Kelowna’s wine scene. Housed on a vineyard purchased by Terrabella Wineries in 2013, The Hatch is a place to sample exquisite wines and experience an artistic journey. The wines, adorned with labels created by Vancouver artist Paul Morstad, are as unique as the winery itself, drawing inspiration from various artistic influences.
At the helm of The Hatch's winemaking is Jason Parkes, whose 15+ years in the industry have culminated in a range of fine wines that reflect both his expertise and his personality. From the vibrant labels to the character of each wine, The Hatch offers a distinct, engaging experience that resonates with both the casual visitor and the seasoned wine connoisseur.
Priest Creek Family Estate Winery
Priest Creek Family Estate Winery is a family-owned and operated winery established by Darren and Jane Sawin. They purchased the vineyard in 2015 with a vision to raise their children on the farm, returning to their farming roots. The Sawins have created a unique experience where their children actively participate in vineyard activities, learning about viticulture and the wine business.
Their vineyard features a combination of old vines, including 30-year-old Gewurztraminer, and newer vines of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc. Darren now leads the winemaking process, employing techniques learned from esteemed winemakers like Jason Parkes. This hands-on family approach ensures that the wines produced at Priest Creek are of premium quality, reflecting the family's dedication to their craft and the land.
The winery emphasizes non-interventionist methods, including manual punching of musts and 100% gravity flow, ensuring that the wines are crafted with minimal manipulation, highlighting the natural characteristics of the grapes and terroir
Nagging Doubt Wines
Nagging Doubt Winery is a family-owned and operated winery that thrives on the passion and dedication of its founders, Rob and Abby Westbury. The journey began with Rob's long-standing dream of creating something tangible and meaningful, which led him to transition from a corporate career to winemaking. Rob's profound interest in viticulture blossomed during a business trip to San Francisco, where he fell in love with wine. This passion culminated in the establishment of Nagging Doubt, with their first physical estate vineyard planted in 2014. Abby plays a crucial role in managing the tasting room and handling marketing efforts, ensuring a warm and inviting experience for visitors. The winery is known for its artisanal wines, made with meticulous care and a commitment to sustainable farming practices, reflecting the family's deep connection to the land and their dedication to producing high-quality, handcrafted wines
Conclusion
The family-owned wineries of Kelowna are more than just producers of fine wines; they are custodians of a rich heritage and contributors to a dynamic community. Each winery, with its unique story and approach, adds a distinct flavour to Kelowna's wine culture. Visitors to these wineries can expect both a tasting experience and a journey through the history, creativity, and passion that define Kelowna’s wine country. It's an invitation to explore, to connect, and to discover the personal touch that makes each of these family-owned wineries truly special.
