A new winery is in the planning stages for the Okanagan- Similkmeen.
Working under the assumption that area vineyards continue with the present rates of production, a surplus of grapes is predicted to occur over the next few years. Some growers may benefit from surplus production by having some of these grapes converted into premium wine, thereby extending their marketing window.
A small group of agricultural professionals have confirmed surplus predictions, prepared a business plan and developed documentation to facilitate the formation of a “new generation” cooperative able to address some of the surplus. The group will be funded through a Cooperative Development Initiative (CDI).
The economics of this venture will require many growers working together, forming a cooperative, electing a board and committing to the process.
A meeting of growers who wish to learn more will be held in Oliver to discuss findings, plans and the process.
Interested growers should e mail :
atyabji@telus.net to start the process of setting a meeting date.
