Monte Creek Winery, located near Kamloops, British Columbia, has rapidly gained recognition for its dedication to quality, sustainability, and innovative winemaking practices. Since opening to the public in 2015, this winery has become a central player in Canada's wine industry, transforming the Thompson Valley into a destination for wine enthusiasts.
A Vision Rooted in Thompson Valley Soil
Monte Creek Winery began with a bold idea: to create a vineyard in the Thompson Valley’s semi-arid landscape. The founders saw the potential of the area’s unique combination of climate and terrain. They planted vines on a sprawling 1,200-acre estate, with 75 acres specifically devoted to viticulture, overlooking the South Thompson River.
The project officially started in 2009, and by 2015, the winery opened its doors to visitors. From the outset, Monte Creek has focused on producing wines that express the region’s character while embracing modern farming methods to work with the land rather than against it.
Why Thompson Valley Stands Out
Monte Creek Winery’s location offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities for winemaking. The Thompson Valley experiences hot, dry summers and harsh winters. This semi-arid environment presents obstacles for traditional grape varieties, but it also promotes strong, flavourful growth in hybrid and cold-hardy vines.
The soil types on the estate vary significantly. Some sections consist of gravel and sandy loam, ideal for drainage, while others contain heavier clay soils. Winemakers use these variations to grow different grape varieties strategically. The area benefits from extended hours of daylight in the summer, which enhances grape development and ripening.
By understanding and adapting to these local conditions, Monte Creek has created a profile of wines that reflect the unique characteristics of this Canadian growing region.
A Sustainability-Focused Approach
Monte Creek Winery is fully certified organic, a status achieved in September 2023 after years of refining sustainable farming techniques. This certification applies to all vineyards and production facilities on the estate. The winery has also earned Salmon-Safe certification, which ensures that farming practices protect local watersheds and ecosystems.
Monte Creek employs regenerative agricultural techniques, including composting, planting indigenous cover crops, and reducing soil erosion with geotextile covers. The vineyard minimizes chemical inputs by focusing on natural plant health and pest control strategies. Through partnerships with organizations like OceanWise, the winery also supports sustainable seafood initiatives.
These efforts are not just environmental—they also help create healthier, more resilient vines capable of producing consistently high-quality grapes in a difficult climate.
Innovation in the Cellar
Innovation has been essential to Monte Creek’s winemaking success. Winemakers have invested in techniques that reflect both traditional and cutting-edge practices. Sparkling wines are made using classic methods of secondary fermentation in the bottle. These include offerings like the Living Land Sparkling Rosé, which has quickly become a local favourite.
Monte Creek has also focused on planting and cultivating grape varieties not commonly grown in British Columbia. Hybrid grapes like Marquette and Frontenac Gris have proven well-suited to the region’s climate, providing resilience against frost and disease while offering unique flavour profiles. These cold-hardy varieties have enabled Monte Creek to push the boundaries of what is possible for Canadian winemaking.
The winery produces a diverse portfolio that includes Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Rosé, and a limited-edition Ice Wine, showcasing the breadth of its viticultural expertise.
Signature Wines and Industry Recognition
Monte Creek Winery's efforts have not gone unnoticed. Their wines have earned awards both nationally and internationally. While specific accolades may vary by vintage, the consistency of high praise underscores the winery’s ability to deliver exceptional products year after year.
Each wine reflects the work done both in the vineyard and the winery. Monte Creek’s Riesling, for example, offers bright acidity and minerality that highlight the terroir’s semi-arid climate. The Marquette showcases a robust, fruit-forward character shaped by the Thompson Valley’s long, warm summers.
By constantly experimenting and refining, Monte Creek continues to define what makes Thompson Valley wines distinctive and competitive on the global stage.
An Experience for Visitors
Monte Creek Winery offers more than just wine. The tasting room, open year-round, provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the estate’s diverse selection of wines. The design balances modern architecture with expansive views of the surrounding vineyards and the South Thompson River.
During the summer, the Terrace Restaurant offers a menu designed to pair with Monte Creek’s wines. Guests can sample seasonal dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The experience highlights the connection between local agriculture and the wines being poured in the tasting room.
Events play a significant role in Monte Creek’s visitor offerings. The winery hosts everything from intimate guided tastings to large community events like Snowy Paws, a winter celebration that attracts families and pet lovers alike. These activities bring people together to experience not only wine but also the culture and hospitality of the region.
Monte Creek's Commitment to Community and Growth
Monte Creek Winery actively engages with the local economy. The estate partners with artisans, food producers, and event organizers from the Kamloops area. These collaborations help strengthen the winery’s ties to the community and create a holistic experience for visitors.
Looking ahead, Monte Creek plans to expand both its facilities and its wine offerings. Investments in infrastructure and sustainability initiatives will allow the winery to continue improving its operations while maintaining a low environmental footprint.
With an ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainable farming, Monte Creek is set to play a major role in shaping the future of winemaking in British Columbia.
A Destination for Discovery
Monte Creek Winery combines high-quality wines, responsible farming, and engaging visitor experiences. It has become a driving force in the Thompson Valley’s emerging wine scene. For those looking to explore a new side of Canadian winemaking, Monte Creek offers both a taste of innovation and a deeper connection to the land.
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