The Naramata Bench wineries were the first in BC to join and pool their marketing efforts through a regional association when the Naramata Bench Wineries Association formed in 2003 as a marketing organization promoting awareness of Naramata Bench wineries throughout BC and Alberta. This vibrant group became well known for “taking it on the road”…
Continue reading Best of the Bench—has sub-GI designation made a difference?
As we celebrate budbreak, that magical period when the grapevine buds come out of dormancy, reconnect with the vine’s vascular system to draw up the nutrients stored in the root system through the winter, and unfurl two tiny leaves and a teeny pre-grape cluster, we wonder what the season will bring us. Each growing season…
Continue reading Sustainability and Resilience
Through the summer of 2010, Hillside hosted a number of “terroir tastings” from barrels, illustrating the similarities and differences between four blocks of 2009 Merlot from the Naramata bench and one Oliver block. The difference was obvious—almost a Sesame Street segment of “one of these things is not like the other” –the wine from Oliver…
Continue reading The down & “dirt”y on our single vineyard Merlots?
The term intervention in winemaking spans a spectrum of practices. In theory, zero intervention would indicate that fruit is left on the vine and no wine is made. Maximum intervention would be…well let’s come back to that. The grapevine’s primary job, in fact its only desire, is to propagate. It wants to create the condition…
Continue reading Intervention in Winemaking – What does it really mean?
Be kind, be calm, be safe, make wine… As we try to be patient, waiting for the grapes to ripen to perfection, we have been racking some of the 2019 red wines from barrels and blending. Pinot Noir, Gamay, Syrah and some of the Merlot need to be out of barrel and bottled to make…
Continue reading Preparing the Cellar for Harvest
Chatting with Kathy about the unoaked Pinot Gris taught me a few lessons on not only wine making but also terroir. The fruit for this wine comes from an area close to Kathy’s home in Naramata, surrounded by peach and apple orchards. The aromatics coming off the wine are familiar but I cant place them.…
Continue reading Peach Honey Glazed Chicken
I was super excited for spring this year. It marked one year in the valley and I couldn’t wait to reopen the Bistro, but that came second to the release of Hillsides Unoaked Pinot Gris. With the kitchen buzzing to life, the team charging ahead to be ready for opening day, I was preparing the…
Continue reading Shrimp Scampi with House Made Pasta
Discover Naramata’s finest with a wine tasting at Hillside Step into the world of Hillside Winery, where the diverse flavours and rich heritage of the Naramata Bench come alive in each bottle. Our carefully curated tasting experiences invite you to delve into the heart of our winemaking philosophy, celebrating the rich history and vibrant character…
Continue reading Tasting Experiences
Celebrations at The Bistro Life’s special moments deserve a setting that’s just as extraordinary. The Bistro at Hillside is that place, offering a picturesque venue for weddings, private gatherings, and group events. With our stunning landscape, delectable dining, and exceptional wines, we’re on hand to ensure that every detail of your celebration is crafted to…
Continue reading Celebrate at Hillside Spring Takeout Menu The perfect choice for a quick bite or al fresco picnic.Available Wednesday – Sunday, 12:00pm- 8:00pm. Focaccia, Sourdough, Cheese Biscuit | 10Add: Tiger Blue Butter & Roasted Garlic | 6Add: Olive Oil & Balsamic | 6Add: Whipped Spruce Tip Ricotta | 6Add: Bistro Heritage Merlot Cherry Jam | 8 Warm Marinated Olives…
Continue reading Takeout Menu
Visit Hillside Winery & Bistro Wine tastings at Hillside Discover the charm of Hillside Winery, where the unique character and storied traditions of the Naramata Bench are captured in every glass. Our personalised tasting experiences are your invitation to explore the very best of Naramata winemaking, paying homage to our rich background, pioneering spirit, and…
Continue reading Visit Us