Our Vineyards
Hand-tended | Hand-harvested
Vineyards and Beyond: Exploring Our Terroir
Our picturesque Vistaridge and Dirty Dozen vineyards boast a North-South orientation, strategically maximizing morning and afternoon sunlight exposure for optimal photosynthesis. This orientation not only aids in drying out grape clusters but also helps prevent mildew issues, ensuring the health and quality of our grapes. Delve deeper into the details of these vineyards below.
In addition to our 15 acres, we lease a neighboring two-acre vineyard, enriching our offerings with premium Pinot Gris grapes, a coveted varietal in our portfolio. Furthermore, we have the flexibility to source select varietals from local growers, allowing us to expand our range and showcase the finest fruits of the region.
Visit our inviting picnic area, offering a breathtaking view of the vineyards, and savor the essence of our terroir firsthand. At Pentâge Winery, we believe that great wine truly starts in the vineyard, and we invite you to experience the passion and dedication woven into every bottle.
Vistaridge Vineyard
Our inaugural vineyard, the foundation of our winery, was acquired in 1996. This 23-acre parcel, nestled on Skaha Bench overlooking Skaha Lake in Penticton, BC, was meticulously planted in 1997 with a diverse selection of varietals spanning 7 acres. These varietals include Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Gamay.
For the majority of the vineyard, we chose to implement the Lyre trellising system, a method originating from the Bordeaux region in the 1980s and now utilized globally. While less common in the Okanagan Valley, we believe the Lyre system optimizes sun exposure, encourages airflow, and facilitates ease of hand-tending due to its ergonomic height.
In the Syrah block, we opted for the GDC (Geneva Double Curtain) trellis system, renowned for its suitability for this specific varietal. This system, elaborated upon below, underscores our dedication to tailoring vineyard practices to the unique needs of each grape variety. Below you will find more details on this trellis system.
Dirty Dozen Vineyard
Affectionately dubbed the “Dirty Dozen” Vineyard, this 12-acre gem situated on Skaha Bench, a stone's throw away from the winery, was acquired in the autumn of 2006. The following spring of 2007 saw the planting of 8 acres of this picturesque land, marking the inception of our renowned "Dirty Dozen" collection. Comprising twelve distinct varietals, including Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Grenache Noir, Merlot, Mourvèdre, Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier, and Tempranillo, this vineyard embodies a harmonious blend of diversity and quality.
Utilizing the GDC (Geneva Double Curtain) trellis system, the vineyard's design features a horizontally divided canopy. This innovative system aims to manage canopy density by splitting it into two, facilitating enhanced sunlight penetration to the fruit renewal zone. Additionally, shoots are strategically positioned downward, creating a visually striking canopy reminiscent of two elegant curtains enveloping the vineyard rows.
