LAKE COUNTRY – A true family business, George and Trudy Heiss, along with their three sons, Robert (operations manager), George Jr. (winemaker) and Steven (sales & distribution manager), own and farm 75 acres of vines and produce an extensive portfolio of red, white and sparkling wines.
Beyond production of their own wines, the Heiss family has been instrumental in shaping the Okanagan wine industry. Active entrepreneurs, George and Trudy have a number of accomplishments to celebrate, including the introduction of high quality vines.
Most notably, the Heiss family is credited with bringing the first Pinot Gris vines into Canada from the Alsace in 1976. Today, Pinot Gris is the most widely planted white varietal in the Okanagan Valley. Their influence in the early days of working with the Becker Project and helping to establish the standards for BC VQA wine remains relevant in today’s expanded market.
In reflection of their legacy, Trudy sums it up, “It has been a tremendous experience to see our business and the wine industry grow. We are thankful that our customers are very loyal to our wines and we remain committed to produce award winning wines for many years to come. We are so proud to see Canadian Wines take centre stage and rightfully attract the attention of the world. It is a dream come true for us pioneers!”
A very special place, the winery offers a bustling wine boutique that is open year round and a world class restaurant and banquet facility that is open seasonally.
Perched above Okanagan Lake with stunning panoramic views of mountains, vineyards and the lake, Gray Monk Estate Winery offers guests an authentic wine country experience. In honour of this anniversary year, the Heiss family invite you to drop by the ‘Home of Pinot Gris’ to toast the past and celebrate the future!