Winemaking started as a hobby 25 years ago for Bob Ferguson and Tim Watts.
The brothers-in-law are co-founders and co-winemakers of Kettle Valley Winery which is celebrating their 20th vintage this year. When they planted their first vineyards on the Naramata Bench, there were no wineries opened. By the time they opened their tasting room doors they were the fourth winery on the Bench and only the 23rd in the province.
“For us, it has always been about the wine,” said Watts. “It has been a passionate and memorable ride so far and we look forward to rolling into our next 20 years of farming grapes and sharing the wine.”
Kettle Valley Winery produces 10,000 cases a year from the 28-acres on the Naramata Bench and 14 acres in the Cawston/Keremeos area. They drew their name from the Kettle Valley Railway which ran through Naramata between 1915 and 1961 connecting the Southern Interior to the markets of the Pacific Northwest.
“This year we are proud to be celebrating 20 years of making wine at our family farm winery,” said Ferguson. “Over the years we have been most appreciative of the long standing relationships we have had with wine consumers, restaurants and wine shops. All of whom have been our customers and have become our friends.”
Kettle Valley Winery plans on celebrating throughout the year with activities and events to mark the occasion. On July 15, they are offering celebration pricings, rolling back to original prices on select wines. On July 15 they are offering celebration pricings, rolling back to original prices on select wines. The first offering on April 15 quickly sold out. For more information on upcoming events or about the winery visit www.kettlevalleywinery.com.