Gray Monk Estate Winery, set against the beautiful Okanagan Lake, has long been a defining presence in British Columbia’s wine landscape. Established in 1972 by George and Trudy Heiss, the winery combines European heritage with innovative techniques, creating a destination that honours its roots while pushing forward with quality and sustainability. Now part of Andrew Peller Limited, Gray Monk Estate Winery continues to thrive with 75 acres of vineyards and a wide portfolio of wines that capture the unique flavours of the Okanagan Valley.
Founding a Legacy: The Heiss Family’s Journey
George and Trudy Heiss arrived in the Okanagan with a vision that would shape the region’s winemaking identity. In 1972, they established Gray Monk, named after the Austrian and Hungarian term “Grauar Mönch” for Pinot Gris, one of the first grape varieties they cultivated. Their pioneering spirit set the stage for the province’s Estate Winery program, and Gray Monk became a cornerstone of British Columbia’s wine industry.
Their journey marked the start of a new era for Canadian wines, as Gray Monk helped establish and promote VQA standards and develop the wine culture in the Okanagan Valley. The Heiss family’s quality commitment continues with every Gray Monk wine glass reflecting their legacy, dedication, and passion.
The Winemaking Process: From Vine to Glass
At Gray Monk, the winemaking process is both an art and a science. Each fall, vine-ripened grapes are hand-picked at peak quality, then transported to the winery’s crush area. Here, the grapes are de-stemmed, gently pressed, and fermented to extract the juice and begin the process of transforming it into wine. The winery’s focus on careful handling and precise timing preserves the flavours and aromas, leading to wines that are rich in character.
The aging process at Gray Monk varies depending on the wine. Some varietals age for four months, while others may develop for up to ten months, allowing the flavours to deepen. After aging, the wine is bottled using a Stelvin screw-cap finish for freshness. Once bottled, the wines rest in climate-controlled conditions before shipping, ensuring each bottle reaches customers at optimal quality.
The Wine Portfolio: Roots Collection, Odyssey Series, and Estate Series
Gray Monk’s wine portfolio offers a range of experiences, from cool-climate whites to robust reds, grouped into three main collections: Roots, Odyssey, and Estate. The Roots Collection features varietals inspired by Gray Monk’s heritage, including Ehrenfelser, Kerner, Siegerrebe, Odyssey Pinot Gris, and Rotberger Rosé. These wines reflect the unique terroir of the Lake Country sub-appellation, where cool climates, pre-glacial soils, and lake proximity shape the flavours.
The Odyssey Series showcases wines with deep textures and bold flavours. Extended hang time on the vine allows the grapes to develop structure, and barrel aging (12-24 months) integrates the tannins and builds complexity. This series includes Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir, as well as traditional-method sparkling wines that add an element of celebration to the lineup.
The Estate Series offers approachable, fruit-forward wines that are popular with wine enthusiasts across Canada. Known for consistency, this series includes favourites like Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and the highly sought-after Pinot Gris, which is the top-selling VQA Pinot Gris in Canada. These wines are crafted for versatility, making them food-friendly options that appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Experiences at Gray Monk: Tastings, Tours, and More
Gray Monk Estate Winery offers a variety of wine-tasting experiences that cater to all types of wine lovers. The Tasting Trio Experience combines wine and food pairing in an exclusive setting, where a knowledgeable wine educator guides guests through three featured wines paired with canapés. This experience allows guests to choose their preferred wines for the first two pairings, while the final pairing is expertly selected by the Gray Monk team.
For those interested in the winery’s history, the Gray Monk Estate Tour provides an immersive experience. Guests are taken through the vineyard to learn about the winery’s legacy and viticulture practices, followed by a tour of the cellar where winemaking techniques and philosophies are discussed. The tour includes a tasting in the historic site’s tasting room or on the patio, offering scenic views of Okanagan Lake.
For a relaxed tasting option, The Taste of the Estate is a seated experience featuring five wines from the Estate Series. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards and lake, making it a great choice for those who want to savour Gray Monk’s wines in a casual setting. Another premium option, Our Odyssey, focuses on the winery’s red and sparkling wines from the Odyssey collection, with five wines that highlight the region’s cool-climate reds and sparkling offerings.
The Lookout Restaurant: Wine and Food in Perfect Harmony
Gray Monk’s Lookout Restaurant is a popular dining spot with stunning views of the Okanagan Valley. The menu is designed around shareable dishes and classic entrees, offering options that cater to various tastes. Supported by Gray Monk’s wines and a creative cocktail menu, the restaurant experience is both refined and relaxed, with unobtrusive service that allows diners to focus on the food, wine, and view.
The restaurant’s location, set high above the vineyards, provides what many consider the best patio view in the Okanagan. During warmer months, the outdoor seating lets guests enjoy the fresh air and scenic landscape while pairing their meals with Gray Monk wines. The Lookout Restaurant also accommodates large groups, making it an ideal location for celebrations and gatherings.
Monk’s Cellar Club: Exclusive Membership Benefits
For those looking to enjoy Gray Monk wines year-round, the Monk’s Cellar Club offers exclusive access to new vintages, seasonal releases, and special winery events. Members receive quarterly shipments with a selection of six wines curated by the winemaker, including a mix of red, white, and rosé wines. Membership includes discounts on tasting fees and priority access to experiences, making it a rewarding option for those who appreciate Gray Monk’s wines and want to stay connected to the winery.
Conclusion: A Destination for Wine Lovers and Seekers of Experience
Gray Monk Estate Winery offers a complete journey into the Okanagan’s winemaking heritage. Visitors can explore this legacy through a range of experiences—from tastings and tours to fine dining at the Lookout Restaurant—all set against the backdrop of Okanagan Lake. Whether enjoying a tasting of the Estate Series or indulging in the bold flavours of the Odyssey collection, guests at Gray Monk Estate are invited to connect with the story behind each wine.
