First urban winery in town

Photo: Pixabay

The first urban winery in Osoyoos will soon be opening its doors right in the heart of town.

Bruce Fuller, founder and former proprietor of Rustico Farm and Cellars, announced Tuesday he has entered into a preliminary agreement for a spot on Main Street to develop Osoyoos Urban Winery, which will be an Old West-themed saloon, in tribute to the border town's colourful history. 

Fuller decided to pursue the project after looking around the South Okanagan at more traditional vineyards, and not finding any that fit his liking. The concept of an urban winery, however, sounded intriguing. 

"I needed to fully understand the unique differences between a traditional winery-vineyard operation and the urban winery model," Fuller said.

"Simply put, an urban winery is a real winery that does not have an adjacent vineyard property, but does have a limited, small-lot production capability right on the premises."

The winery will have an old-time feel, but underneath that, all the technology will be up to date. A state-of-the-art wine on tap system will be a feature in the tasting room.

Though an exact address will remain under wraps for a few more weeks, Fuller is confident he will be able to share those details soon. 

Osoyoos Urban Winery is expected to open its doors in late October or early November with minimal operations while the saloon is fully renovated over the winter, with a full-scale opening set for spring. 

TIME Winery opened with a similar concept in downtown Penticton this summer.