The Story of Burrowing Owl

Founded by Jim Wyse in the early 1990s, Burrowing Owl was born from a passion for restoring neglected vineyards in British Columbia’s South Okanagan Valley.

 

His dream was to restore abandoned vineyards, not just for the craft of winemaking, but for the land itself. From this passion, Burrowing Owl Estate Winery was born. But Wyse’s vision extended beyond viticulture. It was rooted in sustainability and the conservation of the region’s delicate ecosystem.

 

The winery took its name from the burrowing owl, a small, endangered species native to the area. This tiny creature became a symbol of the winery’s broader mission: to cultivate not just vines, but balance. By protecting the owl’s habitat and restoring the vineyards, Jim Wyse created an environment where both the wildlife and the wine could thrive. Today, Burrowing Owl stands as a beacon of harmony between human endeavour and nature’s beauty.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wines That Reflect the Land

The South Okanagan Valley is a place of contrast—scorching summer days, cool evening breezes, and rugged, ancient soils. These conditions are ideal for producing wines of depth and complexity, and Burrowing Owl’s vineyards are perfectly suited to capture the region’s character. Every grape, nurtured under the Okanagan sun, carries the story of the land in its juice.

 

 

 

 

The winery’s portfolio showcases this diversity. Their bold and structured Cabernet Franc speaks of the heat of the valley floor, with deep notes of blackberry, spice, and earth. The Pinot Gris, vibrant and refreshing, reflects the cooler nights, offering layers of citrus and crisp minerality.

 

These wines are not just crafted; they are expressions of a place, a tribute to the valley’s unique terroir. Each vintage tells its own story, revealing a new facet of the land that Jim Wyse was determined to revive.

 

 

Shared Values, Exceptional Wines

At Fairview Wines, our relationship with Burrowing Owl goes beyond the mechanics of importing their wines. We share their values—the respect for nature, the passion for craftsmanship, and the belief that great wine carries with it the story of its origins.

 

Burrowing Owl’s dedication to sustainable winemaking resonates deeply with us, and their wines are a perfect reflection of this philosophy.

 

Whether it’s the rich, velvety Merlot or the full-bodied Chardonnay, every bottle from Burrowing Owl embodies the balance between nature and human artistry. The winery’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t just benefit the land; it enhances the character of their wines. With minimal intervention in the cellar, the wines remain true to their roots, allowing the purity of the Okanagan’s terroir to shine through. This is the kind of wine we are proud to share with our customers—wine with a story, crafted with care, and rich with meaning.

 

 

 

 

Connecting People Through Wine

When we offer a bottle of Burrowing Owl at Fairview Wines, we’re offering more than just an exceptional wine—we’re sharing a connection to the people and place behind it. Burrowing Owl’s story, rooted in conservation and craftsmanship, is one we’re proud to bring to wine lovers in the UK.

 

Every time you open a bottle, you’re participating in that story, connecting not only with the winemakers but with the land they care for and the creatures they protect. The beauty of Burrowing Owl wines isn’t just in their rich flavours or elegant finishes; it’s in the deeper narrative of respect for the earth and the sustainable practices that make such remarkable wines possible.

 

Through our partnership, we invite you to taste the essence of the South Okanagan Valley and experience the wines of Burrowing Owl—wines that embody a legacy of stewardship, passion, and a deep connection to the land.

 

At Fairview Wines, we believe every bottle we offer carries a story—one of dedication, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the land. Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, one of our most cherished partners, exemplifies this philosophy. 

As an importer of these remarkable Canadian wines to the UK, we’re proud to share their legacy with our customers.

 

Find Burrowing Owl Here: Burrowing Owl – Fairview Wines