Similkameen – click to enlarge
British Columbia – click to enlarge
The Similkameen Valley is located in southern British Columbia, Canada, just west of the Okanagan Valley. It is a small but growing wine region known for its unique terroir and high-quality wines. The valley runs along the Similkameen River, nestled between the rugged Cascade Mountains to the west and the Similkameen Mountains to the east.
The Similkameen Valley benefits from a semi-arid climate with hot summers, cool nights, and a long growing season, making it well-suited for grape cultivation. The valley’s diverse microclimates and mineral-rich soils contribute to producing distinctive wines with character and complexity.
Merlot is one of the leading red grape varietals in the Similkameen Valley. The valley’s warm days and cool nights allow the grapes to ripen fully while retaining acidity, resulting in rich and velvety wines with dark fruit, chocolate, and spice flavours. Cabernet Franc thrives in the Valley’s terroir, producing wines with vibrant fruit flavours, herbal notes, and a characteristic spiciness. These wines are often elegant and complex, with smooth tannins and a long finish.
Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is also well-suited to the Similkameen Valley’s climate, producing bold and expressive wines with intense dark fruit flavours, peppery spice, and a velvety texture. The valley’s hot days and cool nights help to retain the grape’s natural acidity, adding freshness and balance to the wines.
When it comes to whites, Chardonnay is a popular grape varietal, producing wines with crisp acidity, citrus and orchard fruit flavours, and subtle notes of oak. The valley’s cooler microclimates and well-drained soils contribute to the development of complex and elegant wines.
In addition to these varietals, the Similkameen Valley also produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Visitors can explore the regions wineries and tasting rooms, enjoying guided tours, tastings, and the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
