Kamloops now has its own ‘wine trail’

There was a time when it was assumed the Kamloops climate would never allow the development of a wine industry. As of Monday, Kamloops has its own wine trail, complete with signs, billboards and a website.

With its official opening, the Kamloops Wine Trail showcases B.C.’s newest wine experience with wineries pioneering a new wine region, connecting Harpers Trail, Monte Creek Ranch, Privato, and Sagewood Wineries.

Under the newly created umbrella of the Kamloops Wineries Association, the four Kamloops wineries have come together to promote and market the Kamloops wine region.

“This is very exciting not only for Kamloops, but for wine lovers everywhere,” said Trish Morelli, executive director of the Kamloops Wineries Association.

“Thanks to the dedication and vision of our four local producers, a vibrant new region has emerged right here in Kamloops. Not traditionally recognized as a grape growing region, the pioneer winemakers of Kamloops have proven otherwise,” she said.

She said local grape growers and winemakers are discovering that the semi- arid conditions of Kamloops, along with 2,000 hours of sunshine, high heat units and well drained soils are providing optimal growing conditions for a variety of early ripening grape varieties.

“The Kamloops area offers incredible potential and endless opportunities,” said Morelli. “From the wine quality to the visitor experience, all the markers are in place in support of success and growth.”

Monday marked the launch of an awareness campaign including a website,  a consumer brochure, billboard advertising and, in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, a highway sign program.

Visitors can drive the 60-km Kamloops Wine Trail on their own or book with a wine tour operator.

Open houses at each of the wineries will celebrate the launch on Saturday, June 27, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. They’ll include complementary wine tastings, tours, appetizers and music. More information on the Kamloops Wine Trail and the open house can be found at www.kamloopswinetrail.com.