Ancient Hill Estate Winery is located on a hillside just east of and above Kelowna International Airport. Richard and Jitske Kamphuys are the owners. The name ‘Ancient Hill’ was chosen as an acknowledgement of the natural forces that created the terroir of the vineyard. Around 25,000 years ago, the site was covered by glaciers. These eventually started melting and in the process deposited large amounts of sand and gravel. Gradually, a massive glacial lake called ‘Lake Penticton’ was formed.
We live close to the winery and have visited on a number of occasions to have a picnic lunch while listening to live music. Nothing better than sipping wine, listening to jazz and watching the planes take off and land from YLW!
The Vineyard
In 2005, the 16-acre vineyard was planted. The varieties planted were: Baco Noir, Pinot Noir, Lemberger, Zweigelt, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris. All varieties were selected because they would grow and ripen well at Ancient Hill. The single largest block is Baco Noir¹ which also happens to be one of my favourite Ancient Hill wines.
Vintage 2015
“The hot 2015 Summer produced higher sugar levels in the grapes and therefore higher alcohol levels in the finished wine. But because everything ripened nicely, with plenty of flavours, the wines are well balanced. Expect to release of Ancient Hill Pinot Gris 2015 in June of 2017. The 2015 Gewurztraminer will release the Fall of 2017.
Richard Kamphuys – Ancient Hill Owner & Winemaker
The Wines
Ancient Hill Baco Noir 2016 ($24.90)
A superb wine. The wine is a gorgeous bold red colour, has ripe flavours of blueberry and plum with a hint of mocha and a spicy sweetness on the otherwise dry finish. 92 Points
Ancient Hill Zweigelt Rosé 2016 ($16.65)
Zweigelt 40%, Baco Noir 20%, Gewurztraminer 40%. 700 Cases produced. 13% Alcohol.
This is one of my favourite Okanagan Valley Rosé and made my Top 10 Best Value Rose´list. with the weight towards the heavier end of the rosé spectrum. What strikes you first is the vibrant crimson colour. On the palate, there are spices, strawberry, cranberry, citrus and floral aromas. Soft and refreshing in the mouth with a red cherry finish. 90 Points
Ancient Hill Pinot Noir 2015 ($21.90)
Medium bodied and delicately oaked. Unique to the microclimate of Ancient Hill. Delicate aromas of violets and cherry, with spicy overtones. This fruit forward wine has flavours of black cherries with hints of earthy forest floor and well-rounded tannins. The Pinot Noir pairs well with BBQ or baked Salmon, lamb, turkey dinners and soft cheeses. 90 Points
For their full portfolio of Ancient Hill BC wine please visit the winery site here.
When in Kelowna, you must take the opportunity to try their Baco Noir. The only other BC wineries selling 100% Baco Noir is Summerhill Pyramid Winery.
Reference: 1. In praise of Baco Noir
Note: The article was updated June 30, 2019 with the latest tasting notes.