2024 Harvest Update

As a lover of BC wine, you’re likely already aware of the challenges and uncertainties Okanagan fruit growers are facing. Here at Arrowleaf, we’re feeling the cumulative effects of the extreme weather we’ve endured these past few years - whether it was late frosts, freezing temperatures, heat domes, or the nearby wildfires. Most recently, the extreme cold snap in January 2024 devastated our already weakened vines, reducing our yield to about 15% of what it normally is.

The good news is, picking has begun and we will have wine next year! Of our estate grapes, Zweigelt and Vidal did the best. Ritchie Vineyard and Wendell Vineyard here in Lake Country have good crops of Riesling, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris for us. Our winemaking team will treat these grapes like gold, and once again, upcycle any remaining skins to make piquette. Since such a meagre harvest is economically unsustainable, we’re happy to announce that we’ve been able to secure some beautiful Chardonnay from Ontario, and some exciting red grape varieties from Washington state. Stay tuned for more details!

Sadly, there is nary a cluster of Bacchus to be found around here…this is one variety that we will not be able to make this year.

We hope the next few years are gentler on all farmers. In the meantime, we’re very grateful for your support through these rather stressful times.

Thank you from all of us at Arrowleaf!