Kamloops, BC, June 16, 2020 – 5 years ago, this week, a group of local winery owners gathered to launch the Kamloops Wine Trail. Accompanied by dignitaries, hospitality and tourism partners and local media, the Kamloops Wine Trail was officially introduced at an event held at Monte Creek Ranch Winery. BC’s newest wine region had emerged in the Kamloops Thompson Valley.
“The vision for the Kamloops Wine Trail on opening day was that Kamloops would become a destination wine hub with a recognized viticultural area, a thriving wine tourism industry, award-winning wines and a growing number of wineries and acres under vine,” states Trish Morelli, Kamloops Wine Trail executive Director.
That vision still stands strong today with many elements already coming to fruition, most notably award-winning wines, wine tourism, and in 2018, the “Thompson Valley” receiving official BC viticulture designation.
“We are so excited to be a part of the Kamloops Wine Trail and celebrating how it has developed over the past five years,” comments Vicki Collett, owner of Harper’s Trail, Kamloops’ first winery. “It’s hard to believe how far we’ve all come since the beginning. Kamloops is a wine destination; we are on the map!” adds Collett.
5 Years by the Numbers:
- 15% growth in vineyard plantings
- 200% increase in wine production
- Over 16,000 wine visitors in 2019
- 150+ medals awarded
- Emergence of 5 wine tour operators
- 100s of weddings, parties, dinners, music and other wine tasting events
Coinciding with the 5-year anniversary, the Kamloops Wine Trail is revealing a new logo and website. “The fresh, reinvigorated look reflects the uniqueness of our area, and the personality and attributes of the Kamloops Wine Trail,” notes Morelli. “Our new look and unique winery proposition will continue to create demand (or help to create even more demand) for Kamloops wines and the Kamloops wine experience,” adds Morelli.
“Kamloops wineries have truly redefined the BC wine experience,” comments Erik Fisher, General Manager at Monte Creek Ranch Winery. “A lot has been achieved in a short period of time, and heartfelt appreciation and thanks goes out to the local community for their support and patronage over the last 5 years.
To celebrate the milestone anniversary Kamloops Wineries will be sharing their gratitude by offering 10% off all wines purchased from the tasting rooms of Privato, Harper’s Trail and Monte Creek Ranch Winery during the anniversary weekend of June 21th and 21st
As well, a special selection of anniversary new release wines including “Bolle Rosa” Sparkling Rose from Privato, “Split Decision” Blueberry Grape Sparkling from Monte Creek Ranch, and the 2019 Pioneer Block Riesling from Harper’s Trail, will be available and also offered at 10% off.
Kamloops Wine Trail wineries have implemented enhanced safety plans to ensure the safety of guests and staff while still maintaining an enjoyable wine experience. To help manage physical distancing, avoid line-ups and disappointment, reservations are recommended for wine tastings.
“We’ve missed you and are ready and excited to welcome you back to help celebrate with us,” shares Debbie Woodward, Owner Privato Vineyard & Winery.
Kamloops Wine Timeline:
- Personal grapes grown in region
- 2005 First commercial vineyard planted
- 2011 First Kamloops vintage bottled offsite by Harper’s Trail
- 2013 Harper’s Trail Winery opened Kamloops’ first winery
- 2013 Privato Vineyard and Winery opened
- 2014 Sagewood Winery opened
- 2015 Monte Creek Ranch Winery opened
- 2015 Kamloops Wine Trail launched
- 2016 BC Highways acknowledge Kamloops wine region with highway signage
- 2018 Thompson Valley granted official wine appellation status (GI)
- 2019 Kamloops Wineries top the award charts winning 46 prestigious medals
About the Kamloops Wine Association:
The Kamloops Wine Association is a not for profit collective consisting of member wineries whose mission is to work together alongside strategic partners to market and promote the wine and wine experiences in the Kamloops Thompson Valley. For more information, visit www.kamloopswinetrail.com
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Media Contact:
Trish Morelli, Executive Director
Kamloops Wine Association
C: 604.788.8997
