Wineries in BC

Geology: Mt. Boucherie (near Kelowna), home to a number of wineries, is an extinct volcano.

Growing Regions: There are five main DVAs (Designated Viticultural Areas) in British Columbia — the Okanagan Valley, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Fraser Valley and the Similkameen Valley.

History: In 1859, Oblate missionary Father Charles Pandosy planted the first vineyard at the Oblate Mission near present-day Kelowna.

Hybrid: Grape varieties developed, typically by crossing European varieties with native North American varieties. The plant breeder’s objectives include developing varieties that ripen early, resist disease or are winter-hardy.*

Organic: A technique for growing grapes without using chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides or commercial fertilizers.*