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Township 7 Vineyards and Winery is known for producing high-quality, award-winning wines focusing on traditional, handcrafted methods. Established in 2001, it has built a strong reputation in the Canadian wine industry. Here are some key points about what Township 7 Winery is known for:

1. Quality Wines: They produce a range of wines, including Merlot, Chardonnay, and their signature Seven Stars sparkling wine, which has garnered numerous accolades.
2. Handcrafted Approach: Emphasis on small-lot production, hand-harvesting, and traditional winemaking techniques.
3. Award-Winning Wines: Their wines have won various national and international awards, showcasing their commitment to excellence.
4. Sustainable Practices: They prioritize sustainable viticulture and winemaking practices.

Two Locations: Naramata and South Langley (Fraser Valley)

Township 7 Winery benefits from having two distinct vineyard locations in British Columbia, which offers several advantages:

1. Diverse Terroir:
   • Naramata Bench (Okanagan Valley): Known for its hot, dry climate and diverse soil types, Naramata is ideal for growing a variety of grape varietals, particularly those that thrive in warmer conditions. This area produces full-bodied reds and aromatic whites.
   • South Langley (Fraser Valley): The Fraser Valley’s cooler, coastal climate allows for producing different grape varieties, often resulting in more delicate and aromatic wines. This region is known for its crisp whites and sparkling wines.
2. Extended Growing Season: Having vineyards in two regions with different climates allows for an extended growing season and varied harvesting times, providing flexibility in winemaking and blending options.
3. Market Reach and Accessibility:
   • Tourism and Local Market: Both locations attract tourists and wine enthusiasts, enhancing direct-to-consumer sales and brand recognition.
   • Proximity to Major Cities: The South Langley location is close to Vancouver, making it accessible to a large urban market, while the Naramata Bench is a renowned wine tourism destination.
4. Risk Management: Diversifying vineyard locations helps mitigate risks associated with weather, pests, and other regional issues. If one area experiences a challenging growing season, the other may still produce high-quality grapes.
5. Varietal Expression: Each region allows for different varietal characteristics, allowing winemakers to produce a broader portfolio of wines with unique profiles.

Next is the winemaker’s summary of the 2023 growing season and harvest.

Harvest 2023

“Harvest for the 2023 vintage began for us with the harvest for our seven-star sparkling wines on August 22^nd with Viognier from north Oliver. A short six weeks later, on October 6th we wrapped up harvest with Cabernet Franc grapes from south Osoyoos. Of particular note, it was the earliest we have ever completed a harvest, a testament to the unique conditions of this year.

The 2023 season began with challenges posed by an extreme winter cold spell with temperatures plummeting into -20°C territory. While it reduced our yields, the colder temperatures led to fewer clusters on the vines this season. This set the stage for rapid ripening when the warm summer and fall weather graced the south Okanagan this year. Overall, the fruit is well-rounded and perfectly ripened, with good flavours showing in the whites and intense, concentrated reds, that beautifully embody the essence of our various vineyard’s terroir.“

Mary McDermott, Township 7 Winemaker

Here is the background information and tasting notes for the three 2023 vintage wines.

Township 7 Provenance Series Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ($24.97)

Crafted with Sauvignon Blanc grapes harvested from the Blue Terrace Estate Vineyard at the North end of the Black Sage Bench in Oliver. The grapes were fermented in both stainless steel and neutral French oak barrels. The stainless steel portion was kept cool to retain varietal aromatics and crisp acidity, whilst the second parcel was fermented in 2 barrels at a slightly warmer temperature (16-18°C) to add roundness to the palate and tropical fruits to the profile.

Alcohol 13.2% | pH 3.12  |  TA 7.6 g/L  |  RS 2.49 g/L  |  Vegan

Aromas of citrus, peach and floral notes. It is slightly more acidic than the previous vintage, with a crisp and delicate mouthfeel. Flavours of Meyer lemon, green apple, and white peach, with a refreshing finish. 92 Points.

Township 7 Provenance Series Pinot Gris 2023 ($24.97)

This vintage was crafted from Pinot Gris grapes handpicked from the Naramata Bench Estate Vineyard. The west-facing, gently sloping vineyards have excellent exposure to the afternoon sun and enjoy cool evening breezes off Okanagan Lake. 

Fermentation was predominantly in stainless steel tanks to retain the wine’s fresh fruit character. Two barrels were fermented for added body and complexity. The juice was kept cool during fermentation at 14°C to preserve the bright aromatics. The grapes from the Naramata Estate Vineyard have wonderful natural acidity, creating a fruit-forward wine with refreshing crispness.

Alcohol 13.6%/ pH 3.44/ TA 6.4 g/L / RS 9.6 Vegan

The Pinot Gris opens with aromas of peach, honeysuckle, and pear. Flavours of apricot, green apple and lime, a mineral backbone with a touch of sweetness on the finish. 91 Points

Also, pair it with sushi, seafood salads and a lighter risotto with fresh peas and spring asparagus.

Township 7 Provenance Series Rosé 2023 ($27.97)

The 2023 Vintage is made from Merlot grown on the Naramata Estate, and Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon from Sunshine Vines vineyard in Oliver. All varietals were sent directly to the press, producing a fresher, more fruit-forward juice. 

The Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon were co-fermented to create integration from the outset. A little juice from the Langley vineyard was added for additional complexity. A slow cold ferment in stainless steel tanks ensured that aromatics were maintained and bright flavours were fully developed.

68% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Chardonnay, 4% Pinot Noir

Alcohol % 14 / pH 3.34 / TA 6.9 / RS 3.5/ Vegan

The Merlot-dominant Rosé is a deep copper-red colour. It has fragrant aromas of strawberry, watermelon, and rhubarb. The Rosé has a crisp mouthfeel, well-balanced acidity and is drier than the previous vintage. It has flavours of ripe strawberries and cream, watermelon, and pink grapefruit, with a silky finish. 92 Points.

Here is the link to purchase these excellent value BC wines from Township 7 Vineyards & Winery