Sage Hills Estate Winery and Vineyards

Sage Hills Estate Winery and Vineyards, established in 2006, is a family-owned winery dedicated to producing high-quality wines through organic farming and sustainable practices. Owned by Rick and Toby Thrussell, with Keenan Thrussell as the winemaker and viticulturist, the winery embodies a deep respect for the land. They avoid synthetic chemicals, using plant-based sprays and sophisticated canopy management to cultivate the best grapes on their 10-acre estate.

Sage Hills produces a range of wines, including Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Riesling, all crafted from organic, hand-picked Okanagan grapes. Their offerings include sparkling wines, fruit-driven whites, oak-aged skin contact wines, concentrated reds, and fortified wines. The Pinot Noir is particularly notable for its complexity and balance, while the Pinot Gris is crisp and refreshing, perfect for warmer days. Their Riesling stands out with bright acidity and mineral notes, making it a favourite among those who appreciate this varietal.

The winery’s approach to winemaking is holistic, with minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the cellar. This philosophy allows the grapes to fully express their natural characteristics, resulting in wines that are not only delicious but also reflective of their unique terroir. Sage Hills produces 1,500-2,200 cases annually and is committed to sustainability, being the largest solar energy generator in Summerland and achieving net-zero status.

Visiting Sage Hills is an opportunity to experience this philosophy firsthand. The tasting room, which extends off the wine cellar, offers a serene environment with a large outdoor patio space providing 180° views of the Okanagan Valley. Guests can enjoy a glass or bottle of wine while overlooking the vineyards that produced them, connecting with the land, the wine, and the people behind it all. Exceptional service, quality wines, and a tranquil setting make Sage Hills a standout winery in the region.