Lawrence and Sharon Herder (left), the owners of Herder Winery & Vineyards, have moved their Similkameen Valley winery to a grand location with a tasting room that commands the most spectacular valley view of any winery. They now operate from a large and beautifully remodelled three-storey house set high against a cliff on the north side of the valley, overlooking Keremeos. The tasting room has an absolutely baronial look to it, a far cry from the sensibly modest little wine shop in their original winery near Cawston.
Perhaps the elegance of the tasting room adds to the experience, but the current Herder releases taste really fine. That is especially so of the $20 white called Three Sisters, a blend of Chardonnay (46%), Pinot Gris (36%), Gewurztraminer (11%) and Viognier (7%). This is a complex and satisfying blend, starting with aromas of melons and citrus. The flavours are tropical - guava, tangerine, papaya - with a touch of minerals in the backbone. The tangy lingering finish has a hint of green apples. The moderate 12.8% alcohol contributes to the refreshing personality of Three Sisters. Only 250 cases are available. 90 points.
If you decide to visit, the new tasting room is at 2582 Upper Bench Road, Keremeos. Telephone 250-499-4495. Open daily from 10 to 6.
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