Thank goodness our coach had a double rear axle and was able to accept the added 1.5 tons of weight during our recent bus tour, because with more than 85 cases of wine returning to Nanoose Bay, there was concern – we might have to stop and call for a back-up vehicle!
Forty-two Probus members and friends descended on the Okanagan late in September on an Excellent Wine Adventure, and left BC’s interior a little lighter in the pocket-book, but with a whole new appreciation for friendship and a broader understanding for an extensive variety of wines.
Lynne Hannay, put the four-day program together and didn’t disappoint. As a result, the group visited eleven wineries in the Similkameen Valley and around Osoyoos and tasted roughly 70 wines. In an expertly choreographed and precisely timed event, the travelers got an opportunity to meet some owners, marketing people and seasoned staff that went out of their way to answer questions, educate and promote their products. If you liked bubbly or rose, finely crafted whites or a selection of solid reds, there was something for everyone. And as the bus bins filled, you could hear people saying…. so many wines, so much to enjoy!
From the early morning starts to the late afternoons, the group was busy and a number even found time to slip in some casual shopping time before heading out at night to enjoy dining in restaurants in downtown Osoyoos.
The bus trip was smooth and accommodating, and there were enough stops to refresh and refuel that it seemed the time on the road just flew by. There will be lots of stories and many memories to be shared. We learned a lot about each other and about wines, but ultimately we had fun! Thanks Lynne, it was an Excellent wine Adventure.