The Shuswap Geographical Indication (GI) is one of British Columbia’s most northerly wine-growing regions and among the northernmost in North America. Nestled in the picturesque Shuswap region, this GI is centered around the expansive Shuswap Lake, crucial in moderating the climate and supporting viticulture in this cool-climate area. The unique location and dramatic natural beauty create an exceptional environment for producing distinctive wines with a bright, fresh character that reflects the region’s northerly latitude.
The growing conditions in the Shuswap are defined by cooler temperatures, with warm summers and short but intense growing seasons. Shuswap Lake is essential in regulating these conditions, acting as a heat sink that prevents frost in the spring and extends the ripening season into the fall. This cool-climate setting is ideal for aromatic white grape varieties like Ortega, Siegerrebe, Gewürztraminer, and Kerner, which thrive here and produce wines with lively acidity and vibrant floral and stone fruit aromas. While white varieties dominate, some red grapes such as Maréchal Foch and Pinot Noir also perform well, offering lighter, fruit-forward wines with elegant structure.
The terroir of the Shuswap region is shaped by its glacial history and diverse soils, which are a mix of glacial till, sandy loams, and silty deposits. These well-draining soils encourage deep root systems and allow for the development of bright flavours in the grapes. Vineyards are often planted on gentle slopes near the lake, benefiting from good air drainage and exposure to sunlight. The combination of cool temperatures, diverse soils, and careful vineyard management results in crisp, aromatic wines that are uniquely reflective of this northern terroir.
The wines of the Shuswap GI offer a snapshot of a region still developing its identity but already showing immense potential. With a focus on aromatic whites and lighter reds, the region’s winemakers have embraced the challenges and opportunities of their cool-climate setting. Each bottle captures the freshness and vibrancy that define this unique northern region, making the Shuswap an exciting destination for wine lovers seeking something genuinely distinctive in British Columbia’s diverse wine landscape.
Shuswap Lake from Salmon Arm
Wetlands on Shuswap Lake
The land inside the boundary shown on the map entitled “Shuswap Geographical Indication” and dated June 4, 2018
