Northern Lights Estate Winery celebrates first year of sweet success

It’s been a year since the Northern Lights Estate Winery opened its doors. They’ve been pleasantly surprised by the year’s success, especially the amount of local support they’ve received.

“We’d just like to thank the whole community and everyone in the northern area around Prince George for their support,” says operator Doug Bell. “You guys have been tremendous and our people have been one key piece that has allowed us to be successful. We’re so excited to work with these great people and that’s on reason we’re excited about the future.”

Bell says they’ve already increased the size of the winery’s equipment by 50% and plan further expansion in the future.

“This year has been extremely exciting because we really didn’t expect to go through as much wine as we did in the first year. It really has accelerated our plans for growth in the community as well as partnering with businesses in the community and the Prince George area.”

Community partnerships have played a big part in the winery’s inaugural year.

“We now have four partnerships with different orchards in the area. We’re working with the Railway and Forestry Museum as well and we’re working with the Bear Aware Society in Prince George to use Prince George only apples and help the wildlife in our region. We know that eventually we’ll have to continue to expand our production.”

This summer, the winery has partnered with Pacific Western Brewing to offer winery and brewery tours and tastings.  They’re happening every Thursday evening throughout the summer, beginning at 4pm.

When asked about plans for the future Bell said more – more wine, more varieties, more community partnerships and ventures.