Valley Commons, a new BC winery, was launched at the new District Wine Village in Oliver in September 2021. New to the wine scene, but no strangers to the world of hospitality, winery owners Kyla Richey and Rudy Verhoeff have chosen the District Wine Village in Oliver, BC, to be the first brick-and-mortar location of Valley Commons.
Kyla Richey and Rudy Verhoeff may sound familiar to you – that’s because for the past decade they have competed internationally as part of Canada’s Men’s and Women’s National Volleyball teams. The couple has always dreamed of owning a business together – something that involved bringing people together, coming as you are, and enjoying delicious food and drink.
On their return to Canada in 2020, an opportunity arose to purchase land in the Fraser Valley and they decided to plant a vineyard and create a winery. In September 2020, Valley Commons Winery was born. Part of the foundation work in setting up the Fraser Valley vineyard involved trips to the Okanagan to gain insight and learn from others in the industry. It was during these trips that the couple decided it was essential to be part of the Okanagan wine community. The decision was made to base the new winery out of the soon-to-open District Wine Village just outside of Oliver, BC in the south Okanagan.
Winemaking
Mark Simpson of BC Wine Studio was the winemaker for the inaugural vintages. You can find Mark’s comments on the 2020 Harvest here – Winemaker’s Thoughts on BC Harvest 2020 – Take 2.
With the purchase of Stoneboat Vineyards1, Bill Adams and Kyle Lyons will be the winemaking team for the 2021 vintage. Under the direction of Bill and Kyle, Valley Commons will produce approximately 1500-1700 cases of premium wine, using both the Stoneboat and District Wine Village locations.
We had the opportunity to visit the Valley Commons tasting room in the District Wine Village to try the new wines. Lindsay, our hostess for the session, was well informed about all the Valley Commons wines.
The 2021 New Wines
Valley Commons Pinot Gris 2020 ($28)
Alcohol 12.2% / TA 5.32 / RS 1.2
This is a classic dry creamy Pinot Gris that was harvested at optimal ripeness. Pale straw colour with stone fruit aromas. Flavours of apricot, green apple, pineapple and honey with a refreshing hint of acidity on the finish that quickly dissipates. 90 Points.
Valley Commons Harvest Table White 2020 ($25)
Alcohol 12.2% / TA 5.32 / RS 1.2
A blend of 56% Muscat, 22% Viognier, and 22% Chardonnay grapes from South Okanagan vineyards, all fermented in Stainless steel tanks.
A beautiful aromatic nose of vibrant pineapple and other tropical fruit. Flavours of key lime, quince and lychee with a medium body and well-balanced acidity. The Viognier perfectly balances out the natural sweetness of the Muscat. 91 Points
Valley Commons Rosé 2020 ($30)
Alcohol 12.7% / TA 6.38 / RS 2.1
The dry crisp Rosé is made with 100% Pinot Noir grapes from the South Okanagan valley. Stainless steel only with the skins on a cold press for only 10 hours.
Light strawberry aromas with flavours of strawberry, grapefruit and mandarin orange. A creamery, smooth and medium finish. 90 Points
Valley Commons Cabernet Franc 2018 ($35)
Alcohol 14.7% / TA: 6.09 / RS: 0.43
The Cabernet Franc is aged for 20 months in French oak barrels. Sourced from a single vineyard just off Black Sage Road. The nose has pleasant aromas of red berries, red currants, dried strawberries, and smoky mocha notes. Medium to full-bodied at 14.7% Alcohol. Flavours of ripe black cherry and strawberry jam, smooth tannins with cracked black pepper on the finish. 91 Points
2018 Garden Society ($40)
Alcohol 14.2% / TA: 5.55 / RS: 2.77
66% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 12% Petit Verdot, and then aged in 30% new French oak for the perfect fusion of acidity and body.
The Merlot dominant Bordeaux blend starts with aromas of black fruit, blueberry and baking spices. Flavours of blackberry, plum, chocolate, leather and cloves with smooth tannins and medium-length finish 92 points
Please visit the Valley Commons website to buy these fine BC wines.
References
- Stoneboat Vineyards announces new owners, June 10, 2021, by MyVanCity