Mary in Vancity

Nk’Mip Cellars stands as a symbol of resilience and pride. As the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America, its foundation is rooted in the traditions of the Osoyoos Indian Band, paired with a drive for innovation. Attending their winemaker’s dinner was not just a culinary experience but an invitation to connect with the land and its legacy.

The evening was hosted by Chef Heat Laliberte, who designed a menu that brought out the best in the wines, and Justin Hall, the estate’s winemaker, who brought stories to the table as generously as he poured the wine.

A Journey Through Pairings

Scallop Dish with Maple Bacon & Qwam Qwmt Chardonnay 2021

The first dish was scallops paired with maple bacon. The scallops were tender, with a subtle sweetness from the bacon that worked effortlessly with the Qwam Qwmt Chardonnay 2021. The wine’s crispness and hints of stone fruit added just enough contrast to make every bite feel intentional.

Cured and Smoked Trout & Qwam Qwmt Pinot Noir 2022

The trout arrived next, delicately cured and smoked. This dish was paired with the Qwam Qwmt Pinot Noir 2022. The wine had an earthy depth, underscored by red fruit notes that highlighted the smoky richness of the trout. It felt like an homage to the land and water, a perfect nod to the Okanagan’s roots.

Braised Bison with Blackberry Jus & Qwam Qwmt Merlot 2020

The main course featured braised bison, tender and robust, served with a blackberry jus. The Qwam Qwmt Merlot 2020 had enough structure to stand up to the richness of the dish, and its dark berry notes brought out the sweetness in the jus. This pairing wasn’t just well thought out—it was memorable.

White Chocolate Bar & Qwam Qwmt Riesling Icewine 2022

For dessert, a white chocolate bar was served alongside the Qwam Qwmt Riesling Icewine 2022. The wine’s sweetness had a bright, citrus edge that balanced the richness of the chocolate. It was indulgent without being overwhelming—a thoughtful way to end the meal.

Stories That Stay With You

While the food and wine were the stars, it was Justin Hall’s storytelling that added an extra layer of connection. From his early days as a cellar hand to his current role as estate winemaker, his journey is deeply tied to his respect for the land and the community.

Justin shared tales of harvesting ice wine grapes at just the right temperature and the adrenaline of delivering his child at home—a mix of humor and heart that reminded us all of the humanity behind the craft.

More Than a Winery

Nk’Mip translates to “bottomland,” reflecting its location at the southern end of the Osoyoos reservation. But the name also speaks to its foundation in community. For the Osoyoos Indian Band, Nk’Mip Cellars is part of a larger vision of independence and cultural celebration.

Over 500 band members have turned this 32,000-acre desert landscape into a thriving hub of innovation, proving that connection to the land and a commitment to progress can coexist.

Justin’s journey is one of passion and perseverance. After discovering winemaking as a teenager, he refined his skills with education in Canada and abroad, returning home to lead Nk’Mip Cellars. His pride in the winery and its legacy is clear in every bottle.

An Evening Worth Remembering

This dinner wasn’t about extravagance—it was about intention. The food and wine weren’t just paired; they were in conversation, each amplifying the other. Justin’s stories weren’t rehearsed—they were real, honest, and grounded.

Nk’Mip Cellars is more than a winery. It’s a reflection of history, culture, and the hard work of a community that values its connection to the land. If you visit, you’re not just tasting wine—you’re stepping into a story, one that continues to grow with every vintage.