How Cool Shuswap Climate Contributes to Great Wines

Cool climate wines create unique conditions that influence the characteristics of each varietal. Grapes in cooler climates ripe slower than those in warmer climates, which results in higher acidity and lower alcohol content.

The impact of cooler climates on grape cultivation and winemaking is why Salmon Arm wineries in BC have become a popular attraction for wine tastings, tours, and adding wines to your collection.

So, let’s dive into how cooler climates affect grapes, winemaking, and why these wines have become increasingly popular.

How Does Cool Climate Affect Wine?

A region's climate significantly impacts grape cultivation and wine making practices, which is why warm and cool climate wines vary significantly.

Grapes in cooler regions ripen slower, which allows for the development of more complex flavours and aromas. It’s common for a cool climate wine to end up with a fruitier flavour profile than warmer regions.

Cool climates in the Shuswap region in BC are ideal for wine varietals that already exhibit crisps, fruity, and fresh profiles, such as Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc. Pinot Noirs can also benefit from cooler climates by developing a complex and acidic profile, making them a highly sought-after cool climate wine for many enthusiasts. 

Understanding the Concept of Terroir

Cool climate wines are often described by their terroir — but what does that even mean? And how does it relate to cool climates?

The French term translates to “a sense of place.” In the context of wine, this means the specific varietal tastes the way it should, considering where it was grown.

You can think of terroir as an acknowledgement of the unique climate the grapes were grown in and that they appropriately affected the taste of the wine. For example, if someone says a cool climate wine has a great terroir, it tastes like the grapes were grown in a cool climate.

Conversely, if a cool climate wine ends up tasting like a Napa Valley wine, you could say it has a bad terroir, even if it still tastes good. Ultimately, terroir considers the overall art of winemaking, including the climate, soil composition, winemaking practices, and local flora. 

Climate and Grape Preservation

Climate plays a critical role in wine quality. That’s why certain regions worldwide become popular with winemakers — they have ideal conditions for growing and preserving grapes.

An ideal wine climate balances temperature, rainfall, and sunlight to support healthy grape growth and ripening. Too much heat can cause grapes to ripen too quickly, while too much cold can prevent ripening altogether.

Winemakers adapt to the unique conditions of individual climates for grape cultivation, preservation, and winemaking practices. The end result is a unique varietal that speaks to the climate region itself. Check out grape varieties that grow in northern BC

The Influence of Shuswap Lake on Vineyards

Wineries near Shuswap Lake benefit from the lake’s ability to naturally regulate the local climate. The lake helps create milder winters and cooler summers, helping extend growing seasons and protect wines from extreme winter weather.

Shuswap is located between the Canadian Rockies and the Monashee Mountains, contributing to its unique soil composition. Composition in the region is surprisingly diverse, ranging from sandy to volcanic, often contributing to a sought-after minerality profile.

Additionally, to make the most of the region's unique characteristics, an artisanal approach to winemaking has become the standard for wineries in the region.

BC QVA Certification and Its Importance

The British Columbia Vintners Quality Alliance (BCVQA) certification is crucial to guaranteeing that wine is made with 100% British Columbian grapes that meet specific standards. 

Earning a BC VQA certification is a rigorous process that involves testing and auditing a winery's practices. Certified wineries have demonstrated high standards of viticulture and winemaking. The certification strives to ensure the BC wines' quality to help support the local economy, represent the region, and promote global recognition.

Shuswap Wineries Producing Great Wines

The unique climate of Shuswap has resulted in several wineries near Salmon Arm BC, each producing outstanding wines. Some of our neighbours excelling in the art of winemaking are:

• Celista Estate Winery: A Journey from North to Wine
• Recline Ridge Vineyards: A Family Affair
• Sunnybrae Vineyards: A Blend of Nature and Wine
• Ovino Vineyards: A Glimpse into Glacier-Carved Landscape
• Marionette Winery: European Training Meets Local Production

Together, we’ve formed and continue to advance the art of cool climate winemaking in our unique slice of BC.

Spotlight on Larch Hills Winery

Larch Hills Winery is a popular Salmon Arm winery in the Shuswap region. Our unique position in the region has informed our artisan approach to winemaking. As a cool climate winery, we specialize in distinctive wines like Ortega and Siegerrebe that reflect the region’s terroir.

We’re also family-owned and operated, committed to sustainable practices, and strive to provide a fantastic visitor experience for wine tours or a trip to stock up.

Want to learn more about our winery or schedule a tour? Check out Larch Hills Winery today to explore the wonderful world of cool climate wines.