If the name seems familiar, then you’ve been paying attention. I mentioned Greata Ranch Estate Winery earlier in our mini-tour when we were looking at Cedar Creek Winery. Owned by Cedar Creek but producing wine under its own label since 2003, Greata Ranch is a little known winery that makes some nice wines that are also very affordable.
South of Kelowna’s West Bank and sitting on a sloping bench just below the road between Peachland and Summerland, you might not even notice it while driving by. Once you turn onto the property one of the first things you might note is the signage for a resort condo complex (which currently exists only on paper and billboards). Whether or not that project ever bears fruit is still uncertain. What is known, however, is that the local vines have been producing admirably for years.
Although Greata Ranch’s wines are hard to find (most only available locally and at the on-site store), they are worth seeking out. They offer a decent selection for a smaller winery, including a lightly oaked Chardonnay, a fine example of a Gewurztraminer and surprisingly good Pinot Noir. My favorite wine, however, is one of the most unassuming. Labeled simply as 2009 Peachland Blend, this white blend of Gewurztraminer and two other grapes is a light, crisp and refreshing patio wine. Which is convenient, as Greata Ranch has a very nice patio on which to sip your wine and enjoy a picnic lunch.
I just love their Ehrenfelser!