Okanagan Valley Terroir
The Okanagan Valley is the northernmost semi-arid desert viticulture region in the world. By dissecting this statement, one can learn about the unique position the Okanagan occupies to offer exquisite, world-class wines.
Northernmost means that during the growing season we have very long days, that reach up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), and cool nights. It is largely during the early mornings and late evenings that the grapes ripen, as the vines shut down during the intense heat of the day. This helps ripen the grapes while retaining the acidity that provides structure in the wines.
Semi-arid desert means that we growers have the ability to turn the water off and produce small grapes that are full of flavour, rather than fat watery ones.
The climate of the valley is protected from harsh continental cold by the Rocky Mountains, and from coastal moisture by the Cascade Mountains. The 111 kilometer (69 mile) long Okanagan Lake retains warmth and exerts a moderating influence on the temperature.
There is a great variety of ‘meso-climates’ in the Okanagan. Osoyoos, in the far south, is a fully arid desert, and the temperatures are more extreme. Here growers can ripen varieties like Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. As you get a little farther north there are pockets like Kaleden where a varietal like Merlot fully ripens while retaining acidity and great tannic structure. Kelowna vineyards are becoming famous for Pinot Noir, which requires a more moderate climate, as well as mouthwatering aromatic varietals like Riesling and Ehrenfelser. Kelowna also holds the perfect conditions for growing grapes destined for sparkling wine.
Through all of these lucky factors, the Okanagan produces wines with great acidity, concentration of flavour and ripeness. Due to the climate and careful tending, the Okanagan Valley is truly an exceptional wine region.
Click here for a look at the organic vineyards around the Okanagan Valley growing grapes exclusively for Summerhill wines.