Winemakers are nothing if not resilient. Being farmers at heart, they understand that every year brings its own challenges and the brutal winter of 2024 was a stark reminder. Vine damage and even vine death became a harsh reality that many in the Okanagan had to grapple with. But growers are optimists by necessity: always hoping for the best while preparing for the worst.
This spirit of adaptability was on full display at River Stone Estate Winery’s Blooms et Blanc event, where guests and members were introduced to the winery’s new Good Neighbours Series. These wines, crafted from grapes sourced in Washington State, represent a creative response to the severe crop loss brought on by the winter’s extreme conditions.
“For the first time in our winery’s history, we had no viable crop to harvest,” explained co-owner and winemaker Ted Kane. “This release reflects resilience, adaptability, and collaboration. Our search for a solution led us just south of the border, to our industry neighbours in Washington State.”
After a careful search, River Stone found vineyard partners that shared their values in terms of terroir, vineyard practices, and grape quality. The 2024 vintage grapes were sourced from two esteemed American Viticultural Areas (AVAs): Horse Heaven Hills—located southwest of Prosser and northwest of Paterson along the Columbia River—and Wahluke Slope, situated east of Yakima. Both regions benefit from south-facing slopes, warm days, cool nights, and well-drained volcanic soils.
The series name, Good Neighbours, pays tribute to the generosity and camaraderie of their southern colleagues during an unprecedented season.
On April 5th, River Stone welcomed a lively crowd of supporters to their Oliver winery for the launch celebration.
Before the main festivities began, I caught up with winemaker Austin Hodinsky to hear how the winery had navigated the past year.
“It was a year of deep observation and scrutiny,” he shared, “as we considered the best path forward for our small winery.” Some vineyard blocks experienced bud damage, a short-term setback, while others suffered between 40% to 95% long-term damage depending on the varietal and location. In response, River Stone has made both immediate and strategic plans: some blocks will be replanted, and others replaced with hardier grape varieties better suited to a changing climate.
Guests were welcomed with River Stone’s 2023 Sparkling Cabernet Franc Rosé. As Ted Kane described:
“This wine offers bold aromas and flavours reminiscent of strawberries, raspberries, and rose petals. Fine carbonation lends a lively, soft mouthfeel with a clean, lasting finish. Aged three months on fine lees, it develops complexity and texture. This vintage includes 10% Pinot Gris, resulting in a beautifully vibrant rosé.”
From there, guests enjoyed a tour of food and wine pairings that showcased the new Good Neighbours lineup:
2024 Unoaked Chardonnay
Paired with Ricotta & Artichoke Mini Quiche
Sourced from Horse Heaven Hills AVA.
“Our first-ever Chardonnay! Fermented in stainless steel to preserve fresh fruit character, it features crunchy green apple, ripe pear, and tropical notes of melon and mango. A vibrant match for seafood or as a refreshing apéritif.”
$25.90
2024 Chenin Blanc
Paired with Lemongrass Thai Chicken Sausage & Chenin Gelée
From Wahluke Slope AVA.
“Another debut varietal for River Stone. Harvested at peak ripeness, it’s fruit-forward, balanced, and expressive of its single-vineyard origins. Expect citrus, crisp apple, and tropical fruit, supported by a bold yet elegant mouthfeel.”
$26.90
2024 Splash
Paired with Baby Shrimp & Pineapple ‘Cocktail’ with Sweet Chili & Fresh Mint
A blend of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.
“Lively and fun with a touch of sweetness to balance its natural acidity. Bursting with tropical notes, citrus, and hints of minerality. A crowd-pleasing blend that changes slightly with each vintage.”
Sourced from Horse Heaven Hills and Wahluke Slope AVAs.
$23.90
2024 Sauvignon Blanc
Paired with Lime-Pickled Granny Smith Apple & Okanagan Goat Cheese Phyllo Cup
Also sourced from Horse Heaven Hills AVA.
“Aromas and flavours of passion fruit, guava, grapefruit, and melon lead the way, followed by delicate flint notes and bright acidity.”
$25.90
2020 Corner Stone (Estate-Grown)
Paired with Dark Chocolate-Coated Milk Chocolate Brown Butter, Dark Violet Ganache & Cornflake Nougatine
“Our signature Bordeaux-style blend: 36% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Franc, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec, and 6% Petit Verdot. Aged 18 months in French oak, it’s rich in flavour, colour, and texture—structured for longevity and drinking beautifully now or over the next 7–10 years.”
$46.90
What stood out most during the tasting was how seamlessly each wine fit within the River Stone house style. Without the “Good Neighbours” label, one might never guess the grapes came from beyond the Canadian border. The craftsmanship and consistency are unmistakably River Stone.
“As we look ahead, 2025 may see another vintage sourced from Washington,” said Ted Kane, “but we look forward to returning to our estate fruit as our vineyards recover.”
Until then, Good Neighbours stands as a delicious and inspiring example of community, creativity, and the enduring spirit of the winemaker.
(All photos – Sam Hauck)
