From the Vineyard: An Update from Owner/Winemaker Ted Kane

To our valued River Stone community,

It’s been a year of hard work, growth, and steady recovery here at River Stone Estate Winery. We’re happy to share a mid-season update with you — one filled with new beginnings, and our continued commitment to making exceptional wines.

This season, our team, along with the support of new technology, worked with precision and efficiency to restore two thirds of our vineyards. Some of our blocks and varietals that weathered the cold snap (Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc) are back in production which will allow us to make some red wines and a small amount of white from the 2025 vintage. While yields are still modest, we are excited to welcome back estate fruit to our crushpad!

Across the valley, we are seeing encouraging signs of growth. Surviving vines are enthusiastic, producing large and abundant clusters – and our own vines are no exception. Within our wine community, there is a sense of optimism and excitement. At River Stone our team has been working on crop estimations and managing yields to ensure our fruit ripens evenly and on-time.

That being said, it is estimated that the Okanagan may only reach 51% of it’s normal production – a powerful reminder that recovery is a slow and steady process. In 2025 we will once again partner with our industry neighbours to the south in Washington to offer fresh and vibrant white wines alongside our red portfolio. These collaborations allow us to bring back wines like Splash, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as new favourites like Chenin Blanc until our vineyards are up and running.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to fire up our crusher/de-stemmer and welcome fruit from our estate vineyards. We’re also gearing up for some unique hospitality offerings, including a library tasting in the cellar, followed by a vineyard tour and a canapé reception in the garden with live music. It’s a chance for die-hard wine lovers to reconnect with the wines, the land, and the people behind it all.

To our wine club members and guests — thank you. Your continued support makes everything possible. Whether you’ve visited us this season or raised a glass from afar, you’re part of our journey and allow us to continue working on that which we are most passionate about.

With gratitude,

Ted Kane
Owner, Winemaker, Viticulturist
River Stone Estate Winery