Monte Creek Winery is redefining what it means to produce wine in British Columbia's Thompson Valley. Located just outside Kamloops, this award-winning winery blends innovation, sustainability, and a deep respect for the land to create exceptional wines and unforgettable visitor experiences. Monte Creek Winery offers something unique to discover if you're a casual wine enthusiast or a seasoned connoisseur.
A Winery Rooted in the Thompson Valley
Monte Creek Winery began its journey in 2009, officially opening to the public in 2015. Situated on a sprawling 1,200-acre estate with 75 acres of vineyards, the property boasts a landscape shaped by the South Thompson River and the rugged terrain of the valley. This distinctive geography and climate are key to the winery's success, allowing it to produce wines that reflect the region's unique characteristics.
The Thompson Valley's semi-arid climate, long growing days, and cool nights create an ideal environment for grape varieties such as Riesling, Marquette, and Cabernet Franc. The winery's focus on innovation is evident in its ability to adapt to the challenges of this relatively young wine-growing region, balancing tradition with modern techniques to cultivate award-winning wines.
The Vineyards
Monte Creek Winery's vineyards span three unique sites, each certified organic as of 2023. The Lion's Head Vineyard, with 20 acres on a southwest-facing slope, produces varieties like Riesling and Chardonnay, benefiting from heat reflected by the Lion's Head bluff. The Monte Creek Vineyard, a 900-acre property with 55 vines, grows Marquette, Foch, and Pinot Noir, using windmills for frost protection. In the Similkameen Valley, the 40-acre Keremeos Vineyard cultivates Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and other varieties while employing native plant cover crops to enhance soil health and biodiversity.
The vineyards thrive in the South Thompson Valley's semi-arid climate, with hot days and cool nights creating ideal conditions for flavorful grapes. Silty, free-draining soils require irrigation, but Monte Creek's sustainable farming practices minimize chemical inputs and prioritize environmental stewardship. The winery's minimal intervention winemaking philosophy ensures each wine showcases its unique origin terroir, resulting in environmentally conscious and high-quality wines.
A Diverse and Innovative Wine Portfolio
Monte Creek Winery offers an impressive range of wines, showcasing the versatility of its vineyards. Everything suits every palate, from crisp whites like their signature Riesling to robust reds like Cabernet Franc and Marquette. The winery has also gained attention for its sparkling wines, crafted with care to capture the vibrant acidity and freshness of the region.
Sustainability plays a significant role in the winery's approach to winemaking. Monte Creek employs regenerative farming practices, ensuring each bottle reflects the land's unique characteristics and contributes to its long-term health. Focusing on low-intervention methods allows the natural qualities of the grapes to shine.
The Tasting Room
The Tasting Room at Monte Creek Winery offers guests a comprehensive wine experience, featuring guided tastings of four wines with views of the Thompson River and Lion's Head Vineyard. Open daily from 11 am to 6 pm from May to October and from 11 am to 5 pm from November to April, the Tasting Room provides a curated selection of wines and a small menu with vegan and gluten-free options. Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by contacting the winery directly.
Beyond wine tastings, the Tasting Room features farm products like Haskap Jam, gift items, books, and Monte Creek wines. For those interested in a more relaxed experience, the winery offers a picnic area where guests can enjoy a farm-fresh spread with a bottle of award-winning wine, all while taking in the scenic surroundings. Leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor licensed picnic area, making it a pet-friendly destination.
Terrace Restaurant
The Terrace Restaurant at Monte Creek Winery offers a seasonal alfresco dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy meals on an open-air patio with panoramic views of the Lion's Head Vineyard and the South Thompson River. The restaurant operates from May to mid-September, serving lunch daily from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm.
The menu features locally inspired artisan dishes that highlight the diverse culinary offerings of British Columbia. Shareable plates include a BC Cheese Plate and a Meat & Cheese selection, accompanied by local condiments and crustini. For main courses, the restaurant offers specialty pizzas like the Monte Creek, topped with buffalo mozzarella, Italian sausage, prosciutto, green pepper, and olives, as well as daily sandwich specials. Dessert options include a New York-style cheesecake and a featured dessert of the day.
As an Ocean Wise-certified establishment, the Terrace Restaurant is committed to sustainable seafood practices, ensuring that all seafood items on the menu are responsibly sourced to support ocean conservation efforts.
Please note that the Terrace is an open-air patio without walls, featuring glass panels and a pergola for partial sun coverage. In the event of rain, food service may not be available.
Sustainability at the Forefront
Monte Creek Winery is committed to reducing its environmental impact and fostering biodiversity. The winery employs various sustainable practices, from composting and cover crops to introducing livestock for natural land management. Certifications like Salmon Safe underline the winery's dedication to preserving the surrounding ecosystem.
These efforts extend beyond the vineyards. Energy-efficient practices and eco-friendly packaging demonstrate Monte Creek's commitment to sustainability in every aspect of its operations. This focus ensures that the winery produces exceptional wines and contributes to the planet's health.
Events and Community Engagement
Monte Creek Winery is more than a destination for wine—it's a hub for community and culture. The winery hosts events throughout the year, from yoga classes to artisan markets, bringing people together in a setting that celebrates the region. These events and their welcoming approach make Monte Creek Winery a cornerstone of the Kamloops community.
Educational programs and guided tours further enhance the visitor experience, offering a deeper understanding of the winemaking process and the sustainable practices that set the winery apart. Whether attending an event or simply stopping by for a tasting, guests are encouraged to connect with the land, the wine, and the people behind it all.
A Must-Visit in the Thompson Valley
Monte Creek Winery offers a modern take on traditional winemaking, strongly emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and hospitality. From its diverse wine portfolio to its scenic tasting room and thoughtful events, the winery is a testament to the potential of the Thompson Valley as a premier wine region. A visit to Monte Creek Winery isn't just about wine—it's about experiencing the dedication and creativity that make this place so special.
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