As we reach the last days of Summer 2026..two stories that felt they needed sharing.

It’s the 27^th year of Oliver’s Wine Capital Weekend! (Sept 18-20)

It’s had various names over the years, but it’s always been a gathering of growers, wineries, cideries, spirits, beer, music and food. Always celebrating what the farms each provide and gearing up for harvest.

This year it’s a reminder that, despite the heart-breaking damages that the Summerland Fire delivered, the rest of the Okanagan & Similkameen Valley would welcome you with open arms. Its peak tourist season and your visits mean so much to the entire year.

Our first guest is Danielle Hutton.

Danielle Hutton

Co-owner and winemaker at Fairview Cellars and Committee Chair for the Wine Capital Weekend.

Lots to talk about

Friday night, the great 54.40 at District Wine Village.

Saturday, it’s the 10th annual Cask and Keg events featuring cider, spirits and beer makers, and you at Oliver Community Park.

Sunday, over 40 wineries are pouring for Festival of The Grape. Same park.

There are grape stomps, food trucks, live music and a day of fun. Just when we all could use some fun.

I also took some time to ask Danielle about her growing year and what she was pouring in the cabin tasting room at Fairview. Some surprises for you and I.

www.fairviewcellars.ca

https://visitoliver.com/events-landing/

Our second guest is a friend.

Marsha Lederman, opinion writer: The Globe and Mail.

Marsha Lederman

We’re both members of the Vancouver Film Critics Circle.

Marsha wrote a column last week that definitely caught my eye.

The headline asked the question …..” What if American wines, spirits etc. were allowed back on Canadian liquor shelves and nobody bought ANY OF IT! “

Along with her opinions, she asked for readers’ comments. 900 replies came back.

I was interested in what set Marsha in motion on this subject and what the response was like!!

I thought you’d like to hear Marsha’s comments and opinions. (she did admit that her choice of wine in years past was creamy, oaky Chardonnay from California)

For the informed feedback, I thank my friend Marsha Lederman. Always a great read in The Globe and Mail.

www.theglobeandmail.com