Background
Bottega Wine Studio, located in the Similkameen Valley, is best known for its Seven Directions Rosé. Here’s why it stands out:
1. Single Vineyard, Single Clone Philosophy
Seven Directions Rosé was one of the first rosé-only labels in Canada to embrace a terroir-driven approach fully—each vintage often coming from a single vineyard and a single clone of grape, though other varieties have been featured in select years.
This approach gives each bottling a unique sense of place, something more typically associated with high-end Burgundy or Old World rosés.
2. Provence-Inspired, BC-Rooted
Winemaker Daniel Bontorin crafts the rosé in a style inspired by Provence—dry, pale, crisp, and elegant—but with BC fruit and identity. It’s not trying to copy Provence but reinterpret that finesse using local terroir.
3. Dedicated Rosé Focus
Seven Directions is entirely focused on rosé, making it one of the few BC labels specializing exclusively in rosé wine. That focus has elevated the category in the province, showing rosé can be more than just a summer sipper.
4. Critical Acclaim
The wine has consistently received high praise from BC wine critics, who note its sophistication, minerality, and structured fruit profile—far beyond what you’d expect from many New World rosés.
5. Small Production, Boutique Quality
As a boutique winery, production is small, allowing for hands-on winemaking and attention to detail in every vintage. The rosé is typically released in limited quantities, which adds to its cult-like appeal.
I have been fortunate to taste the Seven Directions Rosés since the 2017 vintage. Here ios the information on the latest releases.
The Wines
Seven Directions Cabernet Franc Rosé 2023 ($29)
“Sourced from a single vineyard, this varietal Cabernet Franc rosé was sustainably farmed on a small grower-owned parcel in Osoyoos, B.C. Due to the extreme freeze in December 2022, Fruilvale Ridge Vineyard was hit hard, yielding a minuscule grape crop that was not even enough to produce a few cases of wine. These younger vines, only four years old, fared well over the winter freeze, so we opted to use this portion of grapes for this season.
Staying true to our minimalist, low-intervention winemaking, these grapes were hand-harvested on September 9th, 2023, with 23.1 6 brix. The grapes were crushed immediately with no skin contact. Lightly pressed and fermented at a cool temperature in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and aroma. Battonage in the tonk was performed weekly during fermentation for added texture and mouthfeel.” Daniel Bontorin, winemaker.
Alcohol: 13.0%/ pH: 3.39 / TA: 6.20 / RS: 2.1
The premium Rosé displays a delicate pale salmon hue. Its vibrant nose reveals enticing aromas of apricot, raspberry, and white peach, accented by subtle sagebrush. The palate is refined and textured, echoing the nose with flavours of strawberry, red cherry, a touch of rhubarb, and a mineral edge. Balanced natural tannins and crisp acidity culminate in a refined, saline finish. 92 Points
Seven Directions Rosé Cuvée 2024 ($30)
“Sustainably farmed on a small vineyard in Fraser Valley, B.C these premium grapes were vinified with minimal intervention to preserve their purity and character. This elegant Rosé Cuvée is a masterful blend of Pinot Noir, Gamay, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer—artfully designed out of necessity following the devastating winter freeze of January 2024, which left our vineyards and growers with nearly zero crop. Fermented in stainless steel tanks with extensive lees stirring, this wine retains its vibrant freshness while developing wonderful texture and complexity.” Daniel Bontorin, winemaker.
Alcohol: 11.0%/ pH: 3.15 / TA: 8.40 / RS: 3.0
This Rosé gleams like dawn’s first blush, a whisper of cantaloupe kissed by morning dew. Its bouquet weaves Anjou pear, Meyer lemon’s tender zest, and the fleeting mist of Earl Grey tea, conjuring a twilight ramble through Provence’s blooming meadows, where spring rain lingers in the air. The palate dances, a vibrant waltz of intensity and grace, with strawberry mousse unfurling like petals at dusk. It crescendos in a creamy, mineral embrace, laced with a salt-kissed tide, echoing the wild spirit of Tractor and Vines Rosé. 92 Points
Suggested Pairings
This Rosés elegant profile and balanced acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. Here are some food pairing suggestions to enhance your experience:
- Seafood: The wine’s crispness complements dishes like shrimp tempura, butter-seared scallops, and sushi.
- Creamy Pasta: Its acidity cuts through rich sauces, making it ideal with creamy carbonara.
- Cheese: Pairs well with soft cheeses such as goat cheese or brie, enhancing their creamy textures.
- Salads: Complements fresh salads, especially those with citrus vinaigrettes or featuring ingredients like feta or avocado.
Please visit the Bottega Wine Studio to purchase these award-winning wines.
For previous Seven Directions Rosé vintages see 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018 and 2017.