Frind Estate Winery is a breathtaking lakefront winery situated on the historic Bennett Property in West Kelowna, British Columbia. The property was purchased in 2017 after Markus Frind. With over 500 years of family farming history, Markus wanted to combine his two passions; technology and agriculture. Today Frind Estate Winery is one of the most advanced wineries in the world, using cutting edge technology to create truly distinctive wines.
I recently had the opportunity to visit the winery for the first time, it is a fairly new winery here in the Okanagan and had heard such great things I had to try it for myself, I mean wine tasting with incredible lake views. Yes please!!!
I really enjoyed hearing the history behind the property from Markus himself; this stunning lakefront property was the home of former BC Premier, Bill Bennett. The Bennett family raised their children in the beautifully renovated home on site, while in service to the province from 1976 to 1982. Frind Estate Winery strives to celebrate and preserve the rich history of this spectacular location and they have done an amazing job keeping some of the original aspects of the Bennett home.
Walking into the large tasting room you can see the passion put into this project. The lake views are spectacular, there is a dock and beach right out front for you to enjoy. I was very impressed with the casual atmosphere of this winery. I feel like this is one of those wineries you could visit over and over. Ok I have already been back there since my first visit. They have a large picnic area that is right on the beach, you can grab a bottle of wine and some take out from Annies restaurant and relax and enjoy. They also have a large patio if you prefer a more traditional seated lunch or dinner.
Okay lets get to the good stuff, the wine. This was the first time I tried their wine and they had a huge selection of white wines, which you all know I love. I have to say I found a new favourtie.
Here are some of the white wines we tried:
Sourced at five separate sites in an effort to achieve complexity and balance, it is
a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Viognier and Riesling. The cooler locations
provide bright acidity and citrus notes, while the warmer sites feature richness and
body. Buttery and gooseberry notes on the nose followed by lime pulp, star fruit and
biscuit hints on the palate. This is indeed an easy summer sipper on the patio.
This is a lighter Chardonnay, stainless steel fermented with no oak, very reminiscent
of a crisp mineral Chablis style. It showcases white peaches, lime zest and a citrus finish.
Pair this wine with creamy dishes, pasta, risotto.
Fermented in tank with no oak contact, this medium dry Chardonnay offers a rich
and creamy texture with lemon notes on the nose and sweet vanilla, spice and ripe
pineapple on the palate. Pair with maple baked salmon, creamy seafood risotto
and chicken parmesan.
This is a medium-dry style with a vibrant acidity and clear minerality. It showcases
some elderflower notes on the nose followed by lemon zest and Granny Smith apple on
the palate. The finish is smooth and balanced. Food suggestions include citrus flavoured
dishes, Thai food and garlic butter mussels.
This warmer location offers a sweeter version reminiscent of a ripe Auslese that
brings out distinct mineral characteristics. This rich, full bodied wine showcases
some floral notes and aromas of chamomile, hibiscus backed by ripe peach &
sugar cookie. This is a refreshing easy sipper on the patio. Shellfish, creamy pasta
and strong cheese compliment this wine.
A classic style of Viognier that expresses the characteristics of the grape’s aromatics.
Stone fruit on the nose followed by ripe peach and unripe pineapple on the palate.
Spice driven cuisine is the perfect option.
Here are some of the Red wines we tried:
The grapes for our 2018 Pinot Nair Cuvee were hand picked from vineyards in Summerland and Kelowna in October 2018. Each vineyard has different soils, with different Pinot Noir clones, creating this wine's complexity and balance. This beautiful reflection of Okanagan Pinot Noir carries balanced acidity with a long lingering finish of raspberry and cherry flavours. Barrel aged for 12 months, in French Oak barrels, this wine has developed a soft, rich, velvety smooth mouth feel. Pairing: Charcuterie boards with cured meats, fruit and hard cheeses or beef bourguignon.
We chose Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes to make this rich red blend. Bright cherry and violet aromas pair with vanilla and plum on the palate. Aged in both French and American oak for 12 months creates a soft texture for the ripe tannins. Serve with BBQ steak with roasted vegetables. Age: 2-4 years
As you can see we tried pretty much all the wines I would say my 2 favourite white wines were the 2018 Premiere Chardonnay and the 2018 Premiere Reisling. I uaully do not like a chardonnay but it is un naked and a bit on the sweeter side and that is probably why I loved it so much. It also won a award and I could definetly see why.
There is also a restaurant on site Annie's Cafe named after Markus' wife. They offer fast casual menu options fro both munch and dinner as well as fresh coffee and baked good in the morning. I really loved the food options as it gives you a can he to grab something and take it to the beach with you along with a bottle of wine. We decided to eat in on their amazing patio and take in the views of the sprawling lakefront property. Everything is made fresh on the property and everything we tried was delicious. I highly recommend the cheese plate as well as the dips. Nothing better then wine and cheese and lake views...
I really hope you get a chance to visit the winery it is definitely worth the visit.
If you are planning a visit please note that you it is recommended to make a reservation for your tasting due to the new coves procedures. CLICK HERE TO RESERVE A TASTING
They recently launched their wine club so you can sign up and enjoy 6 bottles of wine 2 times a year. They offer free shipping so even if your not from the Okanagan you don't have to miss out on these great BC wines.
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