Savard Vines

It was in the hot, dry summer of 2003 when the big”Kelowna fire” raged, that we purchased the land destined to become Savard Vines. At first glance, the property appeared undisturbed covered with safebrush and native grasses. However, after a closer look, skeletons of an old peach orchard could be seen. We learned that the orchard did not survive. Hauling water by horse from the lake proved to be too difficult for the lone farmer. The orchard was abandoned. That did not stop Michael’s enthusiasm. Growing up on a farm, Michael had a passion for the land. Originally, it was Michael’s plan to plant garlic. Despite his love for this spicy onion species, it was the Okanangan’s wine culture that eventually won us over. So, on a dusty day in May 2008, we conned some of our closest friends to help plant over 5000 vines by hand!! It would be fun! We survived…but barely. It is amazing that we are still friends today …..well, mostly.

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Our plantings include equal amounts of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris with a smattering of Cab Franc and Malbec. Due to the natural contours and silt bluffs of the land, we are only able to farm roughly 4.5 of the 10 acre plot.