Cheers to Painted Rock

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer - Penticton

Painted Rock Winery

An application by Painted Rock Winery to hold special events and serve wine by the glass in a lounge has been approved by the Penticton city council.

The decision was reached Monday, following feedback from the public on the matter and further discussion by council. 

"This is an absolutely wonderful location," said Mayor Garry Litke, of the winery on the east side of Skaha Lake. "It will create a venue for high-end receptions. If we are going to entertain the ambassador from Germany and consul general from China, both of whom have expressed interest in coming here, this is the kind of place they would be very impressed with."

The owners of the winery on Smythe Drive, on the way to Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park, now have to go to the liquor licensing branch in Victoria to look for approval there, said Litke.

Among the concerns expressed by residents at the meeting were traffic at Smythe and Lakeside Road, loud music and the lounge, which will be in both an indoor and outdoor area, being open long hours.

But Painted Rock owner John Skinner said the  hours of the lounge are expected to be consistent with wine tasting room hours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the possibility of sometimes being open to 7 p.m.

"It's not a bar on the hill, so I ask my neighbours please don't worry," he said. "Our plans are for functionality, to have weddings, other special events, to utilize this site more efficiently in the city."

 Litke said there have long been concerns about traffic at Smythe and Lakeside, described by some in attendance as a perilous location. 

"This is a legitimate concern, but conditions already exist at the intersection, and Painted Rock is not to blame," he said. "We are victims or our own success with Skinner giving us easement for the climbing bluffs, which are very popular."

Litke said the council is aware of the need to do something and staff has been given direction on traffic calming.