A Pyramid in Canadian Wine Country
If you haven’t heard of Sacred Geometry, let me fill you in. There are those in the scientific community who hold that pyramids, domes, and arches have an effect on liquids at a molecular level. Before I wade too far out on a theory that I am certainly not qualified to elaborate on, I’d better stop right there. But this is important to be aware of when you visit Summerhill Pyramid Winery in Kelowna because of their unique cellar for their wines and sparkling wines. You can’t miss it: it’s a giant 4-storey high pyramid.
A sight to behold at Summerhill Pyramid Winery. Photo by José Antonio Lopez.
Call it Pyramid Power or just plain positive energy, there’s something about Summerhill that puts me in a good mood — and it’s not just the delicious certified organic wines and sparkling wines. There always seems to be something going on at this winery: plays in the summer, special events to honour the Solstice, busloads of happy tourists snapping pictures on the decidedly photogenic patio.
View of Kelowna from Summerhill.
Tours of the winery take people right into the Pyramid, which is always fascinating. The winery is open all year-round for tastings and tours – yes, even in the winter. As for the dining, with the exception of January and February, the onsite restaurant, Sunset Bistro, is open 7 days a week. As soon as milder weather returns, you’ll often see giddy bridal parties wandering the grounds.
Summerhill's pretty vineyard lookout is popular with brides-to-be.
Speaking of the Sunset Bistro, I should mention that the restaurant has won the People’s Choice award at the annual Taste of Kelowna event a few times now. Their executive chef, Jesse Croy, is a cooking dynamo. It definitely also helps that the ingredients Jesse gets to work with are sourced locally – many of them right from the garden plots at Summerhill. The restaurant is 100% wild and organic fare.
Chef Jesse Croy at Summerhill's Sunset Bistro.
A word on Summerhill’s organic program, too. Owner Stephen Cipes is a veritable crusader for organic growing. If he had his way, all the vineyards and orchard crops in the whole valley would be organic. For now, he ensures that his vineyard conforms to rigorous organic practices and that the farms he supports through the restaurant do the same.
Summerhill's fearless leader, Stephen Cipes.
In any event, I highly recommend winery touring in the winter. These tend to be the slower months, which means you get lots of personal attention and that intimate winery experience. As for the restaurant, this is a great romantic spot for your date night. And who can resist delicious and affordable menu options, like wild mushroom risotto made with 5 types of wild mushrooms and 3 kinds of cheese for just $20. Yum!
The restaurant is also available for Christmas parties. Check the Summerhill website for booking instructions.
Happy tippling!
