One of the real pioneering wine families of the Okanagan Valley, the Heiss family have promoted the area, their northern Kelowna region and their Germanic-styled wines over decades and to wide acclaim with their Gray Monk Estate Winery. George & Trudy Heiss moved to the Okanagan Valley from Europe via Edmonton, Alberta with dreams of owning a successful vineyard. In 1972, the couple were at the front of the line presenting their request to be allowed to make (and sell) wine from their own grapes. That began the Estate Winery program—which many believe was the turning point for British Columbia Wines.
Their 2013 Kerner, true to house style, features aromatic varietals that suit the climate and place rather than consumer trends. I mean—when was the last time you thought “I’d like a Kerner with that please?” This wine could change your mind. Dried herbs and stone on the nose, before an earthy, citrus, perfumed apricot palate. Light bodied and off-dry, with juicy citrus peel acidity to carry the sugar. Try this with Indian or Thai-influenced dishes.
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