Spotlight: D’Angelo Estate Winery
Nestled in the heart of Naramata Bench, D'Angelo Winery is a hidden gem of the Okanagan Valley, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and exceptional winemaking. With stunning views of Okanagan Lake and surrounding vineyards, D'Angelo Winery has earned a reputation for its handcrafted wines, rooted in tradition and crafted with passion.
D’Angelo Estate Winery is known for its bold reds and crisp whites. It is a small family-owned winery that offers a welcoming experience, inviting wine lovers to explore its rich flavours and enjoy the picturesque beauty of British Columbia’s renowned wine region.
Plan to stay for lunch or a snack at this beautiful picnic area
Stay at the Farmhouse
If you’re planning on visiting Naramata Bench, be sure to plan to stay in a unique rental, like the Farm House overlooking D’Angelo Vineyards and Okanagan Lake. Located on their 27-acre property on the iconic bluffs of Naramata Bench, this self-contained vacation rental offers options for couples, to 3 bedroom suites. The suites- named after estate varietals like Malbec, Cabernet and Petit Verdot- each offer fully equipped kitchen, satellite TV, AC, living room and your own private deck. Bonus! There is also a pool within the property.
Rooted in passion
D'Angelo Estate Winery was founded by Salvatore D'Angelo, a winemaker with deep Italian roots and a passion for bringing Old World techniques to the fertile soils of Canada. With vineyards that stretch across the stunning landscape of the Okanagan, the winery has focused on growing grape varietals that thrive in the region’s unique climate. Salvatore's dedication to the craft and commitment to sustainable, small-batch production have allowed the winery to stand out in a highly competitive region.
Today, D'Angelo Estate Winery is managed by Salvatore's son, Chris D'Angelo, who continues the family legacy by combining traditional practices with innovative techniques. The result? A portfolio of wines that showcases the diverse terroir of the Naramata Bench while delivering complex flavours and aromas that captivate wine lovers.
Now, let’s explore some wine…
Miscela 2019
This is a unique blend of 84% Tempranillo, with Cabernet Franc and Merlot making up the remainder. Tempranillo is far from home but not out of its element on the Naramata bench, where seemingly nothing can go wrong. The wine’s medium garnet colour gives nothing away. On the nose the aromas of ripe Okanagan cherry, fall plum cake, violets, dried berries, tobacco, earth, and vanilla spice work their magic of drawing you in for a sip. Ripe fruit and marbling acidity swarm the palate, woven with tannins taught enough to enhance the structure but wise enough to not draw attention. Medium bodied and full-flavoured, the balance is impeccable, the finish enviable, and the value superb. Apparently if you put Naramata fruit in the hands of the D’Angelo family, you can have your cake and eat it too. After 5 years this wine is lovely now but could easily handle another 5.
Rosalina 2023
A BC rosé unlike any other, made with 100% Tempranillo bled off the tank destined for red wine. The colour is electric blood orange, already setting itself apart from the pack. The nose is pithy and pronounced with intense aromas of Rainier cherry, gooseberry, green plum, grapefruit, nectarine, raspberry, and orange zest. It is bone dry, chalky, and chewy, with fruit concentration that is balanced by equally resolute acidity. Freshness and vigour remain throughout the lengthy finale. Absolutely a top BC rosé for me. This is a stunning wine, and Nonna should be very proud of her namesake.
Whether you're a casual sipper or a seasoned connoisseur, D'Angelo Winery is a must-visit destination!
Tasting notes written by our contributor: Matt Tinney.