Vintage 2024
Over 40 years ago, Anthony von Mandl gazed upon the rolling hills and sunlit valleys of the Okanagan and saw more than just fertile land. He saw potential—a vision that the world could one day recognize as a premier wine region. Driven by an unyielding belief in his dream, Anthony invested his resources, his energy, and his heart into transforming that vision into reality.
Among the many milestones of his journey, Mission Hill stands as a testament to his dedication and foresight. It was not just a winery but a beacon that drew global attention and admiration. As his vision took shape, Anthony extended his ambitions further, acquiring and nurturing vineyards throughout the valley. One of the crown jewels in this grand endeavor was the Border Vista vineyard, the source of our most renowned wine, Oculus.
For 25 years, Border Vista was more than just land; it was a cherished member of our family. We tended to it with the care of a parent nurturing a child, learning its every nuance and treating it as an integral part of our legacy. In return, it gifted us with grapes that stood shoulder to shoulder with the finest from Bordeaux, Napa, and Italy. Our relationship with Border Vista was a beautiful symbiosis—one of mutual respect and mutual benefit.
But as anyone who has worked closely with nature knows, it can be a capricious partner. In January 2024, a cruel cold front swept into our valley, plunging temperatures to -22 degrees for three relentless days. This extreme cold was a formidable adversary, and despite the vineyard’s deep roots and established presence, the damage was severe.
Our dedicated vineyard teams leaped into action with the precision and care of surgeons, employing every technique known to viticulture in a desperate effort to save the vines. Yet, despite their best efforts, the cold proved to be an insurmountable challenge, more punishing than even the most skilled hands could overcome.
However, the spirit of Anthony von Mandl and his vision is not easily dimmed. In true resilience, we see the opportunity for renewal. As nature has its cycles, so too do we embrace them. The vines that have now passed will not be discarded. Instead, they will be returned to the soil as biochar, enriching it and preparing it for the next generation of vineyards. This act is not just about renewal; it is a tribute to the legacy of Border Vista, honoring its contribution to our journey.
We move forward with the unwavering belief that our next wine will surpass the last. This conviction fuels our commitment to excellence and our ambition to establish the Okanagan Valley as a world-class wine region. We stand poised on the brink of a new chapter, with hope and determination lighting our path.
