Haywire Secrest Mountain Pinot Noir

Haywire Winery was established in 2009 by Christine Coletta and Steve Lornie and has become known for a deliberately hands-off approach to Okanagan winemaking. The philosophy puts the emphasis on organically grown fruit, native-yeast fermentation, concrete vessels, minimal additives, and little to no flavour-imparting oak. The goal is wines that remain light, textural, fresh, and transparent to their vineyard origins.

Secrest Mountain Vineyard is a particularly compelling site. Located north of Oliver on a southwest-facing bench, the vineyard sits at approximately 487 metres (1,600 feet) above sea level. Its cool, elevated position encourages slow ripening, while the alluvial soils contain coarse gravel, sandy loam, and limestone layers.

Tasting Notes
Colour: Bright ruby to medium garnet, with the translucent appearance typical of cool-climate Pinot Noir.

Nose: Wild raspberry, red cherry, and darker berries mingle with forest floor, dried sage, savoury herbs, and subtle mocha. Earlier releases have also shown perfumed spice and a distinctive brambly, earthy character.

Palate: Silky and supple, with juicy raspberry, baked cherry, and black raspberry supported by fresh acidity. Fine tannins provide gentle grip, while dried herbs and earthy nuances add a distinctly Okanagan character. The high-elevation site gives the wine freshness and tension despite its generous fruit.

Finish: Fresh and savoury, with lingering red berries, herbs, earth, and a distinctive stony mineral note. Concrete maturation contributes texture without introducing obvious oak flavours.