I have been fortunate to enjoy Monte Creek wines since 2016. The winery in the Thompson Valley stands out for many reasons.
- Thompson Valley Climate: The semi-arid climate of the Thompson Valley features hot, dry summers and cold winters, distinct from other BC wine regions like the Okanagan Valley. This climate influences grape ripening and flavour profiles.
- Soil Composition: A mix of glacial till, river rock, and limestone provides excellent drainage and mineral content, essential for vine health and grape quality.
- Microclimates: Varied topography results in different microclimates, allowing for cultivating diverse grape varieties.
- Diurnal Temperature Variation: The significant difference between day and night temperatures helps develop grapes with balanced acidity and rich flavours.
- Cold-Hardy Varieties: Monte Creek Winery grows grape varieties suited to cooler climates, such as Marquette, La Crescent, and Frontenac, not commonly found in warmer regions.
- Sustainable Practices: The winery employs sustainable farming methods, including organic practices and minimal intervention winemaking, promoting vineyard and ecosystem health.
- Innovation and Experimentation: Known for its innovative approach, Monte Creek Winery experiments with various grape varieties and winemaking techniques to produce unique wines.
- Scenic Location: Offering stunning views of the Thompson Valley and South Thompson River, the winery provides a rich historical and natural backdrop, enhancing the wine-tasting experience.
Here are the background and tasting notes for three wines from the current portfolio.
Monte Creek Living Land Rosé 2023 ($21.99)
100% Thompson Valley Marquette. The first grapes of Harvest 2023 were Marquette, starting on August 23rd. The grapes were hand-harvested, hand-sorted, and pressed before fermenting and aging in stainless steel for five months to create a bright, aromatic wine.
Alcohol 13.5% / pH 3.39/ TA 9.6 / RS 8.2
The Rosé is a deep salmon colour with berry and floral aromas. Flavours of strawberry, raspberry, and rhubarb have a rich mouthfeel and tart finish. 92 Points
Bronze medal winner at All Canadian Wine Championships and National Wine Awards of Canada
Monte Creek Living Land Cabernet Franc 2022 ($26.99)
90% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. The Cabernet Franc is from Osoyoos. The wine was barrel-aged in French oak for 15 months.
Alcohol: 14% / pH 3.69/ TA 6.8 / RS 0.2
An easy-drinking Cabernet Franc with blueberry and cherry aromas. Flavours of dark cherry and plum with earthy and tobacco notes. It is a well-balanced wine with a long finish and good aging potential. 91 points
Monte Creek Living Land Riesling 2023
Alcohol: 14% / pH 2.94/ TA 8.7/ RS 7.4
A dry riesling with muted aromas of apple blossom and flavours of Key lime, Meyer lemon, green apple, and apricot. The lively, well-balanced wine has just the right amount of salty minerality on the finish. 91 points
You can purchase these good-value BC wines at the Monte Creek Winery Website.