We wanted to take a few moments to reflect on this past year and to share with you a few of the things we were the most grateful for in 2022.
Lytton Strong
When the beautiful Village of Lytton was destroyed by a wildfire, our team was deeply moved by the devasting loss to our neighbours. In June, we launched an ambitious fundraising campaign with a goal of raising $125,000 for a dedicated legacy building project for the community of Lytton.
We crafted a Special Edition Lytton Strong Pinot Gris made with grapes from Lytton’s Winch Spur Vineyard. The grapes escaped the wildfire and became grapes with a special purpose. With the support of industry partners, we were able to donate 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this wine, which generated more than $48,000.
In addition, a silent auction raised over $46,000, and corporate sponsorships and personal donations generated an amazing $70,000.
In the end, together we generated over $164,000 in total donations. All the funds raised will go towards rebuilding the Lytton outdoor pool, a central gathering place for the community.
We would like to thank all of those that bought wine, purchased items from the silent auction, and to all of the donors and sponsors, most notably Vista PGF Fund, Victoria Gold, Revival Gold, Wheaton Precious Metals, Troika, Canco Petroleum, Telus, Kumsheen, and Rocky Mountaineer for their substantial contributions.
#3 Small Winery in Canada
The good news came in over several days this summer, as the results from the prestigious 2022 WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada were announced.
First we received 2 Silver Medals for our Cabernet Franc Reserve 2019 and Pinot Gris 2021. Then we won 3 Gold Medals for our Merlot Reserve 2019, Merlot 2019, and Small Lot Grüner Veltliner 2021. Then we were awarded a Platinum Medal for our Pinot Noir 2020.
Finally, we were named #3 in the list of “Top 10 Small Wineries in Canada.” We were deeply honoured with this recognition of the hard work, dedication, determination, and passion of our incredible team.
Our Customers
2022 was another challenging year with the pandemic, Mother Nature, supply chain issues, road closures, and more. Through it all, you stood by our side. You brought our wines into your homes. You told your family and friends about our wines and our Discovery Club. You visited our winery, enjoyed meals on our patio, and supported us every day of the year. We can’t thank you enough for all of your support this past year.
We are thankful to be part of this beautiful community and the incredible BC wine industry. We are proud to be Lillooet’s first winery.
On behalf of our team at Fort Berens, we wish you a bright and wonderful 2023. Stay warm and celebrate all we have to appreciate at this time of year, and all throughout the year.
With gratitude from our entire team.
FORT BERENS ESTATE WINERY Ltd
1881 Highway 99 North, PO Box 758, Lillooet, British Columbia
tf: +1 (877) 956-7768 t: 250-256-7788 f: 250-256-7780
