Kascadia 2 Q2 2025

Little Engine Winery

Okanagan Valley, BC

Little Engine Winery is a standout gem nestled on the Naramata Bench in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. Founded on a vision of producing wines that reflect ambition, precision, and elegance, Little Engine crafts small-lot, estate-driven wines with uncompromising quality. Their portfolio showcases expressive Pinot Noir, structured Chardonnay, and bold Merlot—all shaped by the unique microclimate and terroir of the region. With meticulous vineyard practices and a hands-on approach in the cellar, Little Engine wines reflect both power and finesse, making them a true representation of New World craftsmanship with Old World soul. Their motto, Dreams don’t come true, they are made true, speaks to the passion and resilience behind every bottle.

At the helm of Little Engine Wines are proprietors Steven and Nicole French, a dynamic husband-and-wife team whose shared entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for this visionary winery. Steven, whose career began in Oil & Gas with a focus on Marketing and Business Development, brought his drive and strategic acumen to the world of wine after graduating from the University of Western Ontario. Nicole, rooted in a family of entrepreneurs, transitioned from a career in Education into Real Estate Design, Development, and Brand Marketing—bringing a creative edge and thoughtful design sensibility to the Little Engine experience.

Guiding the winery’s portfolio is Scott Robinson, an accomplished winemaker with a Master’s in Oenology with Distinction from the University of Adelaide. Having honed his craft across New Zealand, Australia, and the Okanagan, Scott has been with Little Engine since its inception, shaping its wines with precision, elegance, and a deep respect for terroir. Together, this trio has built a boutique winery defined by passion, ambition, and world-class quality.

Little Engine 2020 Silver Pinot Noir

The 2020 Silver Pinot Noir from Little Engine is a refined and expressive wine that reflects the elegance of the Okanagan Valley. Medium ruby in colour, the nose is layered with ripe red cherry, dark raspberry, and hints of dried rose petals and baking spice. The palate reveals a silky texture with flavours of cranberry, wild strawberry, and a touch of earthy minerality. A well-integrated use of French oak imparts subtle vanilla and cedar notes, while the bright acidity and fine-grained tannins offer a long, graceful finish.

Food Pairing
This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with pan-seared duck breast, herbed pork loin, or grilled salmon with a cherry glaze. For a vegetarian option, consider mushroom tart, roasted beet salad, or truffle risotto. Its elegance and balance also make it a great companion for soft cheeses like brie or camembert.

 

Brea Wine Co.

Central Coast, California

Founded by two pioneers in California's natural-wine movement—Chris Brockway of Broc Cellars and Tim Elenteny of Elenteny Imports—Brea Wine Co. was born from a shared vision: to craft terroir-driven, sustainably farmed wines that both honor heritage and embrace innovation 

Brea celebrates both avant-garde viticulture and beloved classic varietals—Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon—by sourcing fruit from carefully selected vineyards known for organic practices and high-quality expression. Through native-yeast fermentation, minimal sulfur, zero new oak, and no additives, their wines deliver pure, site-specific character that’s approachable yet age-worthy. 

Whether it’s a crisp Central Coast Chardonnay with bright pear and apricot notes or a structured Paso Robles Cabernet with mineral-driven tannins, Brea wines are crafted to delight now and evolve over the short term. The goal is to reintroduce classic varietals through a lens of terroir and transparency—wines that are both accessible in price and proud to grace any table. 

At Brea Wine Co., every bottle carries a promise: thoughtful craftsmanship, genuine farmer relationships, and a taste of California’s vibrant vineyards—presented as nature intended. 

2023 Brea Chardonnay

This delightfully balanced Chardonnay (12.5% ABV) is crafted from certified-organic fruit grown at Wheeler and Kevin Olson vineyards. Barrel‑fermented with native yeasts and aged in neutral French oak for seven months with full malolactic fermentation, it captures bright citrus and orchard fruit accented by gentle floral and spice notes. Expect a crisp, mineral-driven profile with juicy apricot and green apple flavors, supported by refreshing acidity and a creamy, textured mid-palate .

Food Pairing:
This unoaked-style Chardonnay shines with seafood and poultry—think crab salad, pan‑fried flounder, baked white fish, or creamy tarragon chicken. Its bright apple‑citrus character and clean finish also complement buttery risotto, light pasta dishes, sushi, and mild soft cheeses