A Legacy Rooted in History
At 8th Generation Vineyard, winemaking is not just a business; it's a heritage that dates back to 1783 when Christian Schales planted his first vineyard in Dalsheim, Germany. Fast forward to 2003, Bernd and Stefanie Schales embarked on a new chapter, bringing eight generations of winemaking expertise to British Columbia's Okanagan Valley. This deep-rooted passion for viticulture was the catalyst for purchasing their first vineyard property in Okanagan Falls, a decision that laid the groundwork for a new legacy in a new land.
Despite the challenging seasons—from hot summers to frigid winters—the couple's perseverance and dedication to quality have allowed them to expand their venture. Now, 8th Generation boasts additional vineyard properties in Naramata and an apple orchard next to their main winery in Summerland, with each location bearing the unique hallmark of the family's winemaking philosophy: minimal intervention and a profound respect for the land.
Vineyard Diversity and Ecological Winemaking
8th Generation Vineyard is distinguished not just by its history but also by its strategic vineyard locations, each selected for its unique terroir. In Summerland's Trout Creek area, 7 acres of vineyards benefit from the moderating effects of Okanagan Lake, which enhances the growing season and allows for the cultivation of Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Syrah. The vineyards thrive on a historical delta, where rich soils deposited by ancient floods provide a fertile ground for high-quality grape cultivation.
Further south in Okanagan Falls, the vineyard's acres are set in a landscape shaped by past glacial activity, creating non-stratified, loamy sand that's ideal for growing Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Merlot. This area's unique climate, characterized by cool nights and extended sun exposure, plays a crucial role in developing the grapes' complex flavours and robust character. Meanwhile, the Naramata Bench property is known for its Penticton silt loam soils and favourable microclimate, which are perfect for growing red varietals like Pinot Meunier and Merlot, ensuring rich flavours and excellent maturity.
Join the Lineage Wine Club
For enthusiasts eager to learn more about the 8th Generation portfolio, the Lineage Wine Club offers an exclusive gateway to some of the winery's most exceptional creations. Members enjoy a 10% discount on all orders, complimentary annual tastings for themselves and friends, and first dibs on new releases. The club offers flexible membership options, including the Vineyardist package for those who enjoy a mix of curated and personal selections, and the Winemaker package, which features bottles handpicked by Bernd Schales himself.
Club shipments are an anticipated event three times a year, bringing the best of 8th Generation right to your doorstep. New releases, such as the Blanc de Noir and the Pinot Meunier Rosé, are highlights of these deliveries, showcasing the vineyard's commitment to producing wines that not only echo the family's extensive winemaking history but also their innovation and adaptability in a new world wine region.
8th Generation Vineyard is an example of a family’s dedication to winemaking across centuries and continents. It's a place where every bottle tells the story of past generations and holds the promise of future excellence, making every sip a taste of history and an inspiration for the future. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new wine enthusiast, 8th Generation offers a touch of heritage and quality that can only come from decades of passion and expertise.
