South Kelowna Slopes

49° 53' N

LATITUDE

119° 29' W

LONGITUDE

about this subregion

The South Kelowna Slopes appellation in British Columbia is a unique viticultural area known for its distinctive environment and grape varieties. Nestled within the larger Okanagan Valley, this region covers about 297 acres of vineyards. Its geographical setting on gentle, mixed glacial slopes in the South Mission area of Kelowna contributes to a cool climate. Influenced significantly by the nearby Okanagan Lake, the area enjoys cooler days, warmer nights, and an extended growing season. Elevations in this appellation range from lake level up to 500-600 meters, impacting the microclimates across various vineyard sites. The South Kelowna Slopes are particularly noted for growing varieties such as Pinot Noir, Gamay Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio, each thriving in the region's unique terroir. This combination of climate, elevation, and soil characteristics makes the South Kelowna Slopes a notable and distinct wine-producing area in Canada.

121

Vineyard Hectares

25

WINERIES

1324-1423

GROWING DEGREE DAYS

Discover Terroir

The South Kelowna Slopes wine appellation in British Columbia, Canada, is nestled within a captivating natural setting defined by its diverse landscape. Located within the scenic Okanagan Valley, this appellation unfolds against the backdrop of the stunning Okanagan Lake.

The landscape is characterized by rolling hills and slopes, which create a striking visual as vineyards meander down these inclines. This terrain provides a range of elevations and aspects that contribute to unique microclimates, making it an ideal environment for grape cultivation. The vineyards themselves are meticulously maintained and add a vibrant tapestry of colors to the surroundings, evolving with the changing seasons.

As one explores the South Kelowna Slopes, they are treated to a harmonious blend of vineyards, orchards, and natural vegetation, all thriving in this picturesque locale. The presence of Okanagan Lake imparts a moderating influence on temperatures, enhancing the region's suitability for wine production.

In this breathtaking landscape, wine enthusiasts can appreciate not only the aesthetic beauty but also the role it plays in shaping the distinctive terroir and character of the wines produced in this appellation. South Kelowna Slopes stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and viticulture in a truly captivating setting.

The South Kelowna Slopes wine appellation, situated in British Columbia, boasts a distinct and cool climate shaped by its northern latitude and the proximity of Okanagan Lake. This geographical arrangement results in a remarkable climate characterized by cooler daytime temperatures, complemented by warmer nights, allowing for a prolonged growing season. The appellation spans from the lake's edge to elevations reaching between 500 and 600 meters above sea level. This diversity in elevation and aspect plays a pivotal role in influencing local temperatures, ultimately leading to extended growing degree days in vineyard sites situated closer to the lake. This intricate interplay of geographic factors coalesces to create the ideal climate for grape cultivation, giving rise to the unique and exceptional wines of the South Kelowna Slopes.

The South Kelowna Slopes appellation in British Columbia is renowned for its diverse array of wines, each presenting distinct aromatic and flavor profiles:

  1. Pinot Noir: Showcases a rich medley of red fruit aromas such as cherries and raspberries, intertwined with subtle earthy undertones.
  2. Gamay Noir: Distinguished by its light, fruity red berry fragrances and a palate that may encompass elements of spiciness or pepperiness.
  3. Riesling: Notable for its aromatic bouquets of flowers and fruits, delivering a crisp and revitalizing taste sensation.
  4. Chardonnay: Exhibits a velvety texture complemented by the fragrance of green apple and citrus notes, occasionally touched by delicate oak nuances.
  5. Pinot Grigio: Presents an aroma brimming with fruit-forward qualities, often featuring hints of stone fruits, and a harmoniously rounded flavor.

These wines are a direct reflection of the distinctive terroir characterizing South Kelowna Slopes, further elevating the region's esteemed standing within the wine industry.

Associations

Discover

In British Columbia's South Kelowna Slopes, five grape varieties stand out, each tailored to the region’s specific climatic and soil conditions:

  1. Pinot Noir: Thrives in the cooler climate, requiring a balance between sunlight and shade, and grows best in well-drained soils.
  2. Gamay Noir: Adaptable to the moderate climate, it flourishes in the well-drained soils of the region and needs precise vine management.
  3. Riesling: Cold-resistant, this variety benefits from the extended growing season, thriving in well-drained soils typical of the cooler climate.
  4. Chardonnay: Suited to the moderate temperatures, it demands strategic vineyard management to maintain optimal sun exposure and leaf coverage.
  5. Pinot Grigio: Versatile in various climates, it excels in the region's warm days and cool nights, favoring well-drained soils.

These grape varieties are carefully cultivated, reflecting South Kelowna Slopes' unique viticultural environment.

The South Kelowna Slopes appellation in British Columbia is renowned for its diverse array of wines, each presenting distinct aromatic and flavor profiles:

  1. Pinot Noir: Showcases a rich medley of red fruit aromas such as cherries and raspberries, intertwined with subtle earthy undertones.
  2. Gamay Noir: Distinguished by its light, fruity red berry fragrances and a palate that may encompass elements of spiciness or pepperiness.
  3. Riesling: Notable for its aromatic bouquets of flowers and fruits, delivering a crisp and revitalizing taste sensation.
  4. Chardonnay: Exhibits a velvety texture complemented by the fragrance of green apple and citrus notes, occasionally touched by delicate oak nuances.
  5. Pinot Grigio: Presents an aroma brimming with fruit-forward qualities, often featuring hints of stone fruits, and a harmoniously rounded flavor.

These wines are a direct reflection of the distinctive terroir characterizing South Kelowna Slopes, further elevating the region's esteemed standing within the wine industry.

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