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“I haven't seen a winery achieve cult status this quickly since Black Hills & Burrowing Owl. The word is getting out fast.” John Schreiner
When we discovered the 60-acre Blackhawk property on the eastern shore of Skaha Lake in the Okanagan, part of our due diligence was to examine the BC government's extensive viticultural microclimate study, which identifies properties particularly suited for the production of premium wines.
We examined page after page of specific criteria, from heat units to soil types, and two things became very apparent. First, this property was clearly shown to have its own, individual microclimate; second, it rated Class 1 in all aspects pertinent to growing very good grapes. We realized we had both the opportunity and the obligation to do this property justice.
The Blackhawk land had lain fallow for 17 years, so we were able to contour properly, for ease of farming and promotion of air movement, and to plant using the finest vinifera from Bordeaux. We engaged the services of renowned viticulturist Valerie Tait to devise our 2004 planting strategy to fully exploit the site's potential and she continues to oversee the vineyard. Recognizing the success of Bordeaux varieties, we decided to plant the primary red components of the classic Bordeaux blends, including a small planting each of Malbec and Petite Verdot to provide spice for our blend and to broaden blending options for our winemaker.
Our simple mandate was and is to cut no corners. We believe that the finest wines are made in the vineyard, so our commitment to all aspects of nurturing our vines, from infrastructure and equipment, to farming methods and viticulture, are supported with the best technology and expertise available. From a winemaking standpoint our commitment to quality is equally vigorous. To avail our winemaker, Gavin Miller, of every opportunity to achieve the great potential of our vineyards, we have purchased the finest equipment available and adhere to a 100% new oak strategy. We have also engaged the services of Ertus Consulting Bordeaux for winemaking and blending assistance.
The Okanagan is home to a growing number of quality vineyards and is fast developing a reputation as a premier wine region. We are extremely optimistic about the potential of the Okanagan and particularly optimistic about our role in this exciting winemaking community.