According to legend See Ya Later Ranch winery got its name from a note left by the departing wife of the man who first planted grapevines there a half-century ago.
Major Hugh Fraser is remembered as a colourful character who was particularly fond of man’s best friend, many of which lived with him on the hillside acreage above Okanagan Falls.
Reportedly his new bride was from London, England and not long after seeing the rustic locale which was to become her home, she beat a hasty retreat penning the words, see ya later.
Now, in addition to naming its products in Fraser’s honour each year, the ranch hosts several fundraising events in support of the SPCA, including this Sunday’s annual Puppy Love.
From 12-4 p.m. dogs and their guardians are invited to enjoy the rolling hills of Hawthorne Mountain at 2575 Green Lake Road in Okanagan Falls.
For a $10 fee the human visitors can sample a variety of wines and delicious appetizers. All proceeds go to help with the work of the BC SPCA in the South Okanagan.
“Over the years See Ya Later Ranch winery has been an amazing supporter of animal welfare in B.C.,” said chairperson Simon St.-Laurent of the South Okanagan/Similkameen SPCA.
“Their support is vital to this branch and we really appreciate it. It is very important.
“Something the public maybe doesn’t know is that See Ya Later Ranch is the choice winery for the BC SPCA province-wide and they provide wine for all of the events in the province.”
In addition to Puppy Love, the ranch hosts Dog Days of Summer and Vine Tails, both of which take place later in the year.