Limited 200-case release invites wine lovers to help shape what comes next.
[Summerland, BC] October 6 – Okanagan Crush Pad is entering the non-alcoholic category with a limited trial release of Narrative XC Sparkling 0.5, a dealcoholized sparkling wine created for people who want to be part of the occasion, glass in hand.
Only 200 cases have been produced and will be sold at the winery for $27.99.
The release is an invitation to customers, friends, and the wine community to taste, share, and offer feedback, as Okanagan Crush Pad explores a broader future for non-alcoholic options.
The project grew from a period of experimentation prompted by the 2024 harvest freeze, which resulted in a zero crop across the industry. Rather than bring in fruit from another region, Okanagan Crush Pad began exploring refreshing, lower-alcohol beverage styles. One result was Orchard + Field, a 5% apple wine made with haskap and other berries that quickly became a fan favorite.
That trial helped inspire new plantings of cider apple trees and haskap berries at Garnet Valley Ranch. It also reinforced a growing realization: more people are choosing to reduce or eliminate alcohol, while still wanting a beautiful, celebratory drink they are proud to bring to the table.
“To us, this is about listening, learning, and being willing to try something new,” says Christine Coletta, co-founder of Okanagan Crush Pad. “We are being bold with this first release, and we want to hear what people think. Try a bottle, share it with friends, and let us know if you think we’re on to something.”
To create a non-alcoholic wine worthy of the Okanagan Crush Pad portfolio, the team trialled hundreds of European and North American products. The goal was clear: make something that delivers the pleasure and sense of occasion people expect from wine, while remaining true to OCP’s winemaking standards and “less is more” philosophy.
“Great dealcoholized wine has to begin as great wine,” says chief winemaker Matthew Dumayne. “It starts in the vineyard, with quality fruit and thoughtful, premium winemaking. That foundation is what gives the finished wine its texture, balance, and the enjoyment people expect from a bottle they are proud to share.”
The team springboards from with one of Narrative’s most popular wines: XC Sparkling. The original Narrative XC Sparkling also began as a small experimental lot, shared with media and local sommeliers. Its lightweight glass and screwcap closure made it both practical and environmentally friendly. A glass can be poured, the bottle resealed and refrigerated, and the wine will maintain quality for a few days. For these reasons XC Sparkling ideal for by-the-glass menu offerings at restaurants and bars. Today, more than 2,000 cases are shipped from the winery each year.
Now, the brand new trial of Narrative XC Sparkling 0.5 carries that same spirit of experimentation forward.
“We want everyone to feel welcome at the table,” says Andrew Raines, Chief Operating Officer of Okanagan Crush Pad. “Whether someone drinks alcohol, is taking a break from it, or chooses not to drink at all, they should still have something delicious and thoughtfully made to enjoy alongside friends, food, and celebration.”
Narrative XC Sparkling 0.5 is available from the winery in a limited 200-case release. Customers are encouraged to enjoy it with a meal, bring it to a gathering, and share their feedback as Okanagan Crush Pad continues exploring a category that is here to stay.
Today also marks the launch of Narrative’s new website, narrativewinery.com, and Instagram account, @narrativewinery
Visit the winery online and follow along as the Narrative story is told.
On social media: @narrativewinery
Where to buy: narrativewinery.com
