Mission Hill Family Estate Ranked Among World’s 50 Best Vineyards

Mission Hill Family Estate, situated in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, has been recognized as one of The World’s 50 Best Vineyards, ranking at No. 45. This prestigious accolade highlights the estate as the only Canadian winery to feature on the list, which was announced recently. The top three spots were claimed by Vik, Schloss Johannisberg, and Bodegas Ysios, showcasing a competitive global landscape.

The list was compiled by a voting academy consisting of over 700 sommeliers, travel experts, and wine trade specialists. This diverse group evaluated vineyards based on various criteria, including quality, visitor experience, and overall excellence in winemaking.

In response to the recognition, Anthony von Mandl, Proprietor of Mission Hill Family Estate and an Officer of the Order of Canada, expressed his surprise and pride. “This stunning recognition was a complete surprise and a confirmation of the potential I saw for the Okanagan region when we pioneered upscale winemaking there over 40 years ago,” he stated. Von Mandl emphasized that this moment is significant not only for the winery but also for the entire Okanagan wine region.

Celebrating Excellence in Winemaking

Mission Hill Family Estate has a long history of accolades, having been named Canadian Winery of the Year six times. Additionally, it gained attention for producing Canada’s first 100-point red wine with the release of the 2020 Oculus. Chief Winemaker Taylor Whelan commented on the achievement, saying, “This recognition underscores our team’s commitment, passion and determination to making distinctive, terroir-driven expressions that define the Okanagan Valley in a glass.” Whelan noted that this moment is a source of immense pride for everyone involved with the winery.

Established in 1981, Mission Hill Family Estate is renowned not only for its award-winning wines but also for its commitment to cultural experiences. The winery, perched above Okanagan Lake, has been described as “the gold standard of wineries” by Condé Nast Traveler. It offers a variety of programs, including an annual summer concert series, culinary events, and international art exhibitions.

As the winery continues to gain global recognition, von Mandl’s vision for the Okanagan region is becoming increasingly evident. The relentless pursuit of excellence and the dedication of the winery’s team have positioned Mission Hill Family Estate as a standout in the international wine community. This recognition serves as a testament to the enduring quality and potential of British Columbia’s wine industry.