When you hear mention of Poplar Grove Winery, you may think immediately of their Pinot Gris. The crisp, fruit-forward wine, well priced and widely available, has long been popular among BC consumers. It has certainly been a go-to within my family and social circle.
But I was this many years old when I discovered Poplar Grove’s exceptional portfolio of wines. From their Chardonnays to their inaugural Pinot Noir, just released on June 21st, each sip was – and I make no exageration – pure delight.
Our June tasting was our first visit to the winery. Tasting room manager Laura treated us to a seated experience in the Legacy Room. We began with the 2022 Classic Chardonnay. Its tropical fruit and medium body made way for the golden-coloured 2021 Reserve, with its ripe stone fruit and butterscotch.
Next up was the Three Roses Rosé, made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes. We learned that Rosé is a popular name within the Holler family, which has owned and operated the estate since 2007.
Second to last on the line-up was the 2022 Pinot Noir. Reminiscent of Williamette Valley Pinot Noir, one of our favourite styles of the grape, Poplar Grove’s first-ever Pinot Noir has a medium body and soft tannins, with raspberry, cherry and baking spice leading to a long finish. The mushroom turnover served alongside was divine and paired beautifully with the wine.
Last but not least was a taste of the Sparkling Extra Brut 2019. We are huge fans of 100% Chardonnay sparkling (aka Blanc de Blancs) and this was no exception.
The winery was the last on our itinerary. We had squeezed in an afternoon booking just before setting off for Vancouver to catch the late ferry back to Victoria. After walking into the modern tasting room and restaurant, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the stunning views of Okanagan Lake and Penticton, we wished we had allocated time to dine there as well. We shall have to do just that on a future visit. For now, we contented ourselves with purchasing a couple bottles of the Pinot Noir.
Open daily, Poplar Grove offers its signature Benchmark tasting experience at its two standing pods in the main tasting room. There are five select wines to taste for a fee of $10.
I was this many years old when I dived into Poplar Grove, but I’m now a lifelong fan.
