Blue Mountain Vineyards Tasting at Franco's
Sam Hauck
Wine Columnist, My VanCity
Sam is a passionate wine enthusiast and writer covering the BC wine and food scene for My VanCity.
Originally published on My VanCity — by Sam Hauck. Republished with permission.
This view is one of the most iconic in the Okanagan Valley. Vineyards cascade down the hillside toward Vaseux Lake, while McIntyre Bluff towers in the distance. It is a landscape that has become synonymous with Okanagan Falls and with one of British Columbia’s most respected wineries: Blue Mountain Vineyards and Cellars.
The scene is so distinctive that it appears on Blue Mountain’s wine labels, making them instantly recognizable to wine lovers across the province and beyond.
The property was purchased in 1971 by Ian and Jane Mavety. At the time, the family grew hybrid grape varieties for the local “jug wine” industry. They embraced significant change during the 1980s and early 1990s, transitioning to premium vinifera grapes. The winery officially opened in 1992 with Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir from the 1991 vintage.
Today, the winery remains family-owned. Founding winemaker Ian Mavety passed the reins to his son Matt in 2005, while daughter Christie serves as Director of Sales and Marketing.
The vineyard is planted at high density, with vines spaced approximately one metre apart — a practice more commonly associated with Burgundy. The winery favours wild fermentations whenever possible. All wines are produced exclusively from estate-grown fruit sourced from a single contiguous vineyard site, farming approximately 90 acres.
Recently, Christie Mavety guided guests at Franco’s Liquor Store through a tasting of five wines that showcased the breadth of the winery’s portfolio.
Blue Mountain Brut Gold Label NV — $37.99
A blend of two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay. The wine spends 24 months on its lees, developing complexity, texture, and a creamy mouthfeel. Bright and crisp with citrus, toast, and brioche notes, supported by a fine mousse and refreshing acidity.
Sauvignon Blanc 2025 — $27.99
A delicious and expressive Sauvignon Blanc from 40-year-old vines. Approximately 30 percent fermented in stainless steel, the remainder in large oak foudres. Complex flavours of boxwood, chamomile and melon with lime, green apple and bright acidity.
Pinot Blanc 2025 — $27.99
From 40-year-old vines, fermented in stainless steel, 500-litre French oak barrels, and large foudres. Layered flavours of stone fruit, white peach, and floral notes with minerality and juicy acidity.
Gamay Noir 2023 — $35.99
Naturally fermented in stainless steel without carbonic maceration. Enticing aromas of bright red fruits, raspberry, and spice. Dark cherry and blackcurrant complemented by bright acidity and a savoury, salty finish.
Pinot Noir Reserve Cuvée 2023 — $51.99
From three distinct vineyard blocks, each contributing different characteristics. A cellar-worthy Pinot Noir reflective of both vine age and winemaking experience.
To accompany the wines, Luigi served fussiloni topped with kale purée, chilli flakes, olive oil, mint, Pecorino, whipped ricotta, toasted breadcrumbs, and a balsamic reduction.
All photos by Sam Hauck. Originally published on My VanCity.
