Fall Harvest:
The big news at most of the wineries in the valley is the wacky weather in 2011 and Mission Hill is no different. They are reporting that their grapes are all still on the vines soaking up the last few rays of sunshine they can get to ensure maximum ripeness. Apparently 2011 is the coldest year on record in the Okanagan since 1937, so it is no wonder that growers are having difficulties this year. Mission Hill viticulturalists have been thinning the canopies to allow for more sunlight penetration and pruning off large amounts of grapes to ensure that the remaining grapes get all the nutrients that they need. So far the estimate is that they will only produce about 75% of their regular volume this year.

Oculus:
Mission Hill will also be releasing their new 2008 vintage of their flagship Oculus tomorrow (October 1st). There are less than 1000 cases of the 2008 vintage and most will be sold directly through the winery over the winter, so if you are an Oculus fan they are recommending you pay them a visit in person or online.

They will also be hosting their second annual “Oculus” day next weekend on Saturday October 8th. They will be offering vertical tasting of previous vintages and barrel samples of some of the Oculus components. Winemaker John Simes will also be on hand to sign your purchases.