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Mission Hill Family Estate
Okanagan Valley
Ethos: Unmatched serenity in Canada’s Okanagan Valley
Winemaker
Taylor Whelan
Wine Style
Sparkling Wines as well as classic reds, whites and rosé from international grape varieties
Romanesque architecture of the twenty-first century: Situated on a prominent hill rising above the floor of the Okanagan Valley, Canada, Mission Hill Winery has a monastic air about its buildings that welcomes and transforms the visitor. Pass through the earth-toned, entrance arches and enter a world dedicated to fine wine. The buildings surround a central courtyard and amphitheatre. An 85-foot bell tower (with viewing platform) rises above the courtyard affording stunning views of the valley, vineyards and Lake Okanagan. Underground cellars dramatically enhance the winemaking education tour, plus there's a banquet hall, wine shop and tasting area. The courtyards and gardens have a spacious, Romanesque quality. This is consciously serene architecture of a timeless quality.
The best of past and present: Thousands of years ago the Okanagan Valley was carved into volcanic rock by slow moving, sediment-depositing glaciers. Mission Hill has stood since 1981. A pioneer grape grower well-versed in sustainable farming practices yet buzzing with modern technology; drones capture aerial views of the vineyards' health while lightweight Geier machinery allows high-density vine cultivation. Wines are nurtured with new and old-world techniques; concrete fermentation eggs look forward while clay amphora honour the past along with a wide variety of oak barrels. The sum and spirit of Mission Hill results in wines that echo the terroir of this exceptional valley.
Sail away: The Restaurant at Mission Hill embraces what is grown within the locality. Like the wines, culinary practices are rooted within the valley with seasonality, simplicity and resourcefulness inspiring every dish. In winter, Mission Hill hosts a Festival of Trees transforming this family estate into a winter wonderland. Wander among beautifully decorated trees, sip warm mulled wine and enjoy the festive experience and browse their Christmas market. Of course, year-round, guests are welcome to a guided property tour and a four-course wine-paired meal featuring rare wines from Mission Hill's Legacy and Icon Collections in the Chagall Room. Or perhaps just book a regular tasting, or a culinary class. For the ultimate experience, splash out and take their luxurious, private yacht and visit two other wine estates that have also helped defined the Okanagan Valley, the America's northernmost winemaking region.
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