Okanagan Crush Pad is expected to open in time for the 2011 harvest and will employ Michael Bartier as head of Cellular Operations as well as consulting winemaker, Alberto Antonini and wine advisor, David Scholefield. The facility will produce 25,000 cases annually and boast a new wine — created by Bartier and Scholefield — expected to be released in June.
“Our services are flexible and we look forward to the opportunity to work with other winemakers in the valley,” says Bartier. “Each client will set his or her own winemaking protocol and guide the process to ensure the finished wine is reflective of his or her own style. This is an exciting new venture for me, and what is most appealing is the collaborative nature of the concept.”
The new operation will also provide education in vineyard management, winemaking, branding, marketing and more.