Long before British Columbia’s wine industry captured international attention, the Kootenays quietly developed a reputation for independent thinking and small-scale craftsmanship. That same spirit continues today at Red Bird Estate Winery, a family-owned winery near Creston where Rémi and Shannon Cardinal focus on handcrafted wines that reflect both their mountain home and a philosophy of minimal intervention.
Their 2024 Atelier Red embodies that philosophy. Named after the French word for “workshop,” Atelier reflects the belief that every vintage is carefully crafted rather than manufactured. The blend combines classic vinifera with cold-hardy varieties, creating a wine that is unmistakably rooted in the Kootenays while remaining approachable and food-friendly.
Vineyard & Winemaking
The 2024 Atelier Red is a blend of Merlot, Marquette, and Marechal Foch, bringing together the richness of Merlot with the vibrant acidity and resilience of two varieties well-suited to British Columbia’s cooler mountain climate.
Produced with a minimalist philosophy, the wine is unfined and unfiltered, allowing the fruit and vineyard character to express themselves naturally. Gentle handling throughout the winemaking process preserves texture and freshness while showcasing the character of the fruit. The result is a wine that feels authentic, expressive and true to its Kootenay origins.
Technical Specs:
Blend: Merlot, Marquette and Marechal Foch | Alcohol: 13.2%
Tasting Notes
Deep ruby in colour, the nose opens with inviting aromas of black cherry, ripe strawberry and blueberry, layered with hints of dark chocolate and subtle vanilla. On the palate, this medium-bodied red is supple and fruit-driven, with juicy black cherry and raspberry flavours supported by fresh acidity and soft, approachable tannins. The gentle winemaking preserves a lively sense of freshness, while the finish lingers with notes of cocoa, spice and a subtle touch of mountain herbs. 90 Points
Food Pairing
The winery recommends pairing Atelier Red with wild game, braised beef, and morel mushrooms, which are excellent choices. It would also shine alongside grilled burgers, smoked sausages, roast pork, mushroom risotto or a hearty beef stew. Its balance of fruit, freshness and gentle structure makes it a versatile red for everything from weeknight dinners to evenings around the fire.
Price & Availability
2024 Atelier Red is available directly from Red Bird Estate Winery for $33.
The latest Atelier Red is another reminder that some of British Columbia’s most distinctive wines are being crafted well beyond the Okanagan. Red Bird Estate Winery continues to carve out a unique identity in the Creston Valley, producing authentic, small-lot wines that celebrate both the rugged beauty of the Kootenays and the creativity of a family committed to letting their terroir speak for itself.
Looking Back at Red Bird Estate Winery
We’ve been following Red Bird Estate Winery since its early years and have enjoyed watching the winery evolve into one of the Kootenays’ most distinctive producers. If you’d like to learn more about the winery’s story and revisit some of its earlier vintages, be sure to read our original feature:
Red Bird Estate Winery in the Kootenays
https://bcwinetrends.com/2018/10/29/red-bird-estate-winery-in-the-kootenays/