On our first full day in the Okanagan, we drove north within the district of Summerland to visit new winery Solvero Wines.
Located in pastoral Garnet Valley, Solvero’s new tasting room, which opened relatively recently in March, echoes the breathtaking simplicity of the landscape. Big picture windows fill the space with natural light and views of the hills enhance the seated tasting experience.
Owner/operator Matt Sartor and wife Cassandra guided our tasting. Their portfolio currently consists of only four wines, but each of the Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Rosé and Pinot Noir was a delightful dive into terroir.
We especially liked the 2023 Pinot Gris and 2022 Chardonnay. Both were elegant and well balanced. The Pinot Gris was refreshing and had soft mineral notes, while the Chardonnay was fruit forward, round, with a welcome hint of vanilla and toast. We do not often drink still whites, but these would be the ones we reach for when we do.
The 2020 Pinot Noir was Burgundian style and had a most intoxicating nose of sweet red fruit. I have not developed a palate for rosés so I won’t attempt to describe that.
What I will say is this: Solvero, which loosely translates into “truth in soil,” is succeeding in its philosophy to make wines with purity and balance. We were really impressed and are excited for what’s to come. I believe some Gamay and Traditional Method Sparkling are in the works.
The tasting room is open Tuesdays to Sundays by appointment. And while a visit there is the best way to learn about and acquire their wines, fellow Victorians can find Solvero at Vintage Spirits. Solvero wines are available online
