The Summerland Lakefront Sub-GI, located on the western edge of Okanagan Lake in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, is a distinctive wine region defined by its lakeside terroir and unique geological history. The proximity of Okanagan Lake plays a critical role in moderating the region’s climate, providing cooling effects during the hot summer and warmth during cooler months. This consistent temperature regulation extends the growing season, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop balanced flavours. The vineyards in this 12 KM long Sub-GI are primarily east and southeast facing, benefiting from early morning sunlight, which helps preserve acidity and enhance aromatic expression in the grapes.
Summerland Lakefront sub-GI is particularly well-suited for aromatic whites and elegant reds. Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris comprise more than half of the grapevines planted here. Gewürztraminer wines have delicate, fruity, and spicy flavours. Pinot Gris offers vibrant notes of orchard fruit and citrus. Pinot Noir is the flagship red variety and thrives in this cooler climate, producing wines with nuanced red fruit, subtle floral notes, and refined structure.
The soils of Summerland Lakefront are shaped by the Trout Creek delta and the region’s ancient glacial history. These include sandy and silty loams from the lake bottom and fertile, alluvial soils deposited by the Trout Creek delta. These well-draining soils encourage deep root systems, which help vines access essential minerals, contributing to wines with depth and complexity. The soil diversity, coupled with the Sub-GI’s moderate elevation close to the lake, creates ideal conditions for producing wines that are fresh, vibrant, and deeply reflective of their origins.
The vineyards of Summerland Lakefront, with their stunning views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding landscape, are a testament to the region’s harmonious interplay between nature and winemaking. The combination of lake influence, carefully selected vineyard aspects, and diverse soils results in wines that consistently capture the essence of this unique terroir. From aromatic whites to elegant reds, wines from this Sub-GI offer a beautifully crafted expression of their lakeside home.
Winter view from Summerland Lakefront
Trout Creek
Trout Creek with Giant’s Head Mountain in the back. Trout Creek has a beautiful walking trail from lakeshore to canyon views.
In addition to beautifully crafted wines, Summerland Lakefront boasts interesting sites! Let your adventure begin – find the stump craving and Marmotville!
The land inside the boundary shown on the map entitled “Summerland Lakefront Geographical Indication” and dated December 1, 2021
