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Sip & Savour at Nk’Mip Cellars, North America’s First Indigenous-Owned Winery

David Wylie · August 31, 2023 ·

A partnership between Arterra Wines Canada and the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB), Nk’Mip Cellars is the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America.

They planted their first vineyards in Oliver in 1968. Through partnerships that developed over the years, the OIB added more and more acres of vines. At one point, they accounted for 25% of all grapes grown in B.C. Today, their nearly 1,500 acres make up 12% of the total. 

Nk’Mip Cellars opened in 2002 and has since produced many wines of distinction.

“We’ve seen a lot of success and growth through the past couple of decades where the brand is recognized and highly sought after, which is a fantastic accolade for not only the band but for the estate team,” says estate manager Troy Ravndahl.

Portfolio of Wines

Nk’Mip’s award-winning wines include their Winemaker’s Series, which has a variety of red, white, and rosé options. 

Their white and red Meritage Mer’r’iym (pronounced mur’-eem’), means “marriage.”
The name represents the perfect union of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec.

Their premium wines are Qwam Qwmt (pronounced kw-em kw-empt), which translates to “achieving excellence.” The grapes are sourced primarily from the finest fruit grown on the decades-old vineyards.

Nk’Mip’s winemaker, Justin Hall, a member of the Osoyoos Indian Band, is recognized as one of the first Indigenous Winemakers in North America.

Stop by for a Tasting, Bottle, and a Delicious Meal

Nestled in their vineyard and overlooking the town of Osoyoos, Nk’Mip Cellars was designed by acclaimed Penticton-based architect, Robert MacKenzie. 

The destination includes a world-class restaurant, simply called, The Patio at Nk’Mip Cellars. They offer a locally sourced and lavishly prepared menu by new Executive Chef, Kenneth Dia. Enjoy your meal on their expansive patio with spectacular views of Osoyoos Lake and surrounding mountains; or in the newly renovated Knowledge Keepers Lounge for days when the weather doesn’t cooperate for outdoor dining. 

Their wine shop is open daily and includes local Indigenous artisan merchandise and wine-and food-related products. Reservations are recommended with dinner service starting Friday through Monday
in August.

Gala in Support of Residential School Survivors

This is the first year the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is being recognized as a statutory holiday in B.C.

Nk’Mip is hosting a fundraising gala to raise funds for Indian Residential School Survivor Society, a Kamloops-based charity that helps address the needs of families and survivors of the residential school system.

“We want to give back to this important cause where we hope to make a difference,” said Ravndahl.

It’s on Sept. 30, and guests will be treated to delicious food and wine stations, entertainment and silent and live auctions. Beginning at 5:30-6:30 p.m., with a VIP reception, the main event goes from 6:30-9:30 p.m. There are only 150 tickets available. The event is expected to sell out quickly. Contact the winery for tickets and more details. nkmipcellars.com.

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