The holiday season is fast approaching, and North America’s first Indigenous-owned winery, Nk’Mip Cellars has a range of wines perfect for the socially-conscious wine-lover in your life.
From Icewine to Merlot, each bottle is a bold celebration and a strong reflection of Nk’Mip’s commitment to authenticity and deep respect for their origins.
Located in the town of Osoyoos, Winemaker Justin Hall and his team serve as dedicated guardians of a proud legacy and masters of their craft, making sure to imprint a unique sense of place in every bottle produced at Nk’Mip.
Each wine pays homage to their culture, history and the Okanagan Valley, one of the world’s superior grape-growing regions.
To celebrate our culture and enjoy premium wines with a deep connection to the Indigenous history of this land, here are six wine recommendations that will complete the ultimate holiday gift guide for BC wine-lovers who care deeply about sharing and celebrating connection to Indigenous legacy while supporting Indigenous businesses.
For the traditionalist, Qwam Qwmt
Qwam Qwmt (pronounced kw-em kw-empt) in the Nsyilxcən language spoken by the Osoyoos Indian Band translates to ‘achieving excellence’.
These estate wines are produced from traditional grape varieties, made famous by the Old World but carry the distinctive characteristics of Okanagan terroir.
Qwam Qwmt Chardonnay
With notes of butterscotch, melon and tropical fruits, the palate of this wine has a soft entry with citrus, light tropical fruits and a hint of spicy oak.
Perfect pair for warm brie cheese, risotto or delicious holiday turkey.
Qwam Qwmt Cabernet Sauvignon
This wine displays aromas and flavours of cassis, spice, and blackberry with some herbal notes.
Spice up seasonal gatherings by pairing this with a juicy rack of lamb, braised beef short ribs or baked eggplant with mushroom.
Qwam Qwmt Merlot
Aromas of black cherry, plum, cedar and leather lead to a full-bodied and concentrated palate.
This Merlot has firm but plush tannins with a light acidity that leads to a long finish.
A dynamic wine that will pair well with any holiday roast.
Qwam Qwmt Riesling Icewine
Finish off a special evening sipping this Canadian tradition.
This inviting dessert wine displays harmonious layers of honey, baked apple, sweet citrus and apricot.
A liquid silk texture leaves a soft finish on the palate.
For the adventurous, Winemaker’s Tier
From everyday occasions to unique moments celebrated among special people, the adventurous locavore will be impressed by the combination of flavours in the winemaker’s tier.
Justin Hall’s playful spirit and creativity are skillfully expressed through these exclusive blends:
Nk’Mip Dreamcatcher
This white blend of Riesling, Ehrenfelser, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Semillon is filled with aromas of lime citrus and grass.
The entry is mouthwatering and bursts with flavours of juicy peach, mandarin orange and lime.
A perfect first-course wine to enjoy early into the holiday celebrations.
Nk’Mip Talon
Named for the mythical Thunderbird, this blend of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon with some Malbec and Cabernet Franc exhibits aromas and flavours of raspberry, blueberry, anise, pepper and a hint of chocolate.
A lovely pair for grilled holiday ham or lamb.