Moon Curser Vineyards Transitions to New Ownership in Okanagan

The renowned Moon Curser Vineyards, located in Osoyoos, has officially changed ownership as of December 2023. The vineyard’s new owners, Gurjit Dhaliwal, his wife Sukhi, and brother Harjit, purchased the winery from founders Chris and Beata Tolley, who are transitioning into retirement after nearly two decades of successful operation.

Founded in 2006 as Twisted Tree Vineyards, the winery was rebranded as Moon Curser in 2010. The new name references local legends about gold smuggling in the Okanagan during the 1880s, where smugglers were said to curse the moonlight that exposed their activities. This intriguing backstory is reflected in the winery’s creative labels and has contributed to its distinctive brand identity.

In a strategic move to stand out in a competitive market, Moon Curser has focused on producing less common varietals. The winery is notable for its offerings of Tannat, Touriga Nacional, Arneis, Dolcetto, Tempranillo, and Carménère. While some varietals, such as Tannat and Arneis, did not survive the harsh winter of 2024, others have continued to thrive.

During the purchase negotiations, the Dhaliwals learned that the Tolleys were ready to retire. The brothers, who have been grape-growers in the Okanagan since 2007, saw the acquisition as a perfect opportunity, aligning with their aspirations to establish a winery. “Chris and I are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished over the past 20 years, and are excited to pass the torch to Sukhi, Gurjit and Harjit, who share our passion for farming and family,” Beata Tolley stated following the announcement of the sale.

Signature Wines and Future Plans

Moon Curser’s flagship red wine, a blend of 50% Tannat and 50% Syrah, stands out for its robust character, particularly in exceptional vintages like 2022. This wine, partially co-fermented in stainless steel and aged for 12 months in French and Hungarian oak, boasts deep colors and aromas of dark fruits and coffee. With flavors of dark cherry, black currant, and plum, it is recommended for decanting and has great aging potential, earning a score of 94/100 and a price tag of $46.99.

Another notable offering is the Touriga Nacional, which is fermented in stainless steel and aged in American oak for 12 months. This wine presents aromas of raspberry and blueberry, complemented by a fleshy texture and flavors of plum, cherry, and fig. It has received a score of 93/100 and retails for $38.99.

Additionally, Moon Curser produces a unique Carménère, believed to be the only one of its kind in the Okanagan region. This wine features dark colors and complex aromas of cherry, plum, blueberry, and tobacco, with a savory palate that includes notes of black olive and pepper, also scoring 94/100 and priced at $46.99.

As the Dhaliwals take over, they aim to uphold the legacy established by the Tolleys while introducing their vision for the future. They plan to enhance the winery’s offerings and continue its tradition of excellence in the Okanagan wine industry.

In addition to this transition, a new winery dedicated solely to sparkling wines has emerged in Penticton. The Evolve Sparkling House, led by Australian-trained winemaker Lynzee Schatz, aims to craft high-quality Champagne-style wines. With a commitment to sparkling wine, Schatz brings over 20 years of industry experience, promising an elegant tasting experience for visitors.

The evolution of Moon Curser Vineyards and the emergence of Evolve Sparkling House signify a vibrant future for the Okanagan wine region, as both established and new producers contribute to its growing reputation in the global wine market.