In August, I visited one of the most idyllic mountain resorts in British Columbia, nestled within the Thompson Okanagan region – Silver Star. It’s located less than an hour’s drive from the Kelowna International airport, and an easy ride to the resort.
So why did I go to this quaint and charming resort during the summer? I was intrigued by the annual “Silver Star summer wine and food festival” that was being hosted in partnership between the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society and Silver Star Mountain resort.
David Hawksworth presents his menu for the evening at Silver Star Resort.
The weekend promised to be a memorable one, with its kick off on Friday that featured none other than renowned chef, David Hawksworth; owner and head chef of Vancouver’s most touted and revered restaurant, “Hawksworth”.
Hawksworth, who had been to Silver Star before, was a big fan of the destination. As an avid skier, he loved the ski in and ski out aspect in the village, and the quality of snow he found on the mountain. He agreed to come up to the resort in the summer and create a meal sensation that would complement the weekend festivities.
And at $230 per plate, hosted at “The Den”, it did not disappoint. With four courses; each one paired with a fantastic selection from BC Interior wineries, it made for a gastronomical delight. From the Albacore Tuna Belly paired with Tantalus old vine Riesling to the Fraser Valley duck breast paired with Le Vieux Pin Cuvee Violette Syrah – it was a truly spectacular.
David Hawksworth, with head chef at “Hawksworth” Kristian Eligh, present a cooking demonstration for attendees.
The next day held lots of interesting activities including the “Sparkling up the cheese in your life” seminar – which was hosted by the Dairy Farmers of Canada and Bella Wines to educate attendees on how to pair their favourite wines with some of Canada’s best cheeses.
The seminar was followed by a cooking demonstration with David Hawksworth, who showed us how to create a wonderful albacore tuna ceviche; with avocado puree, heirloom tomato, jalapeno, puffed rice and cilantro. I have already tried it at home, and although it’s not quite as good as Hawksworth’s, it’s definitely one I’ll use to impress.
Attendees enjoying the afternoon at the Mile High wine tasting event at Silver Star.
There were local artists highlighted throughout the weekend, including a silent auction held by the local gallery (Gallery Odin), which featured local artists’ work up for bidding.
I was able to visit the gallery, and was astounded by the talent of the artists in the area.
The high point of the day was the signature event; the Mile High” wine tasting. There were hundreds of people who descended on the Victorian–inspired village; and enjoyed the live entertainment as they sipped, sampled and tasted their way through Okanagan’s finest wineries and appetizers.
Bella Wines pouring samples at the Mile High wine tasting event.
Each attendee was given a souvenir wine glass and a notebook to record their favourite wines.
Some of the wineries featured included 50th Parallel Estate, Sandhill Vineyard, Thornhaven Estates Winery, and truly unique ones such as Meadow Vista Honey Winery.
With the sun rays illuminating the mountain, it made for a beautiful backdrop as attendees made their way to each winery’s booth. The event was laid back and relaxed, providing guests a way to learn about wine in a non-intimidating setting.
Delicious cheese appetizers served for attendees.
In the evening, there was a tapas degustation available for guests to attend which was hosted at the Silver Grill. The menu was created by Silver Star’s executive chef, Brenden Blair.
In addition, the Wine Masters dinner with Arrowleaf Cellars offered up a five-course dinner for guests that included good food, wine and great conversation.
On Sunday morning guests had the option of indulging in the Sunday champagne brunch; for those who wanted to imbibe on the local goodness, a bit longer.
For those looking for some outdoor adventure, hiking and downhill mountain biking were great options.
Although I had never experienced downhill mountain biking, I decided to give it a try on the safer “green” trails and graduated to some of the “blue” trails after a few practice runs. The chair lift takes riders up to the mountain top, which boasts 18 trails and 1,600 vertical feet of riding in under seven minutes.
It was the most exhilarating and adrenaline pumping fun I’ve had in quite some time; and is a perfect activity for riders of every level (as I noted a few kids passing me by with no hesitation).
A rider takes one of the more adventurous mountain trails at Silver Star.
I was also able to stop for a while of enjoyment, to take in the gorgeous scenic views of the surrounding Monashee mountains.
A stunning view of the Monashee Mountains
Silver Star’s weekend event was spectacular in every way, and to take part in the activities during the summer at this year-round destination, was truly memorable.
But it does make me wonder – if this is what summer is like on the mountain for outdoor enthusiasts – what would winter be like?
I can’t wait to find out.
