From its humble beginnings to an unstoppable force, Haywire Winery orchestrates a masterpiece of sustainable practices, artistic expression, and groundbreaking winemaking techniques, revolutionizing the BC wine scene one bottle at a time.

Formerly known as Okanagan Crush Pad, this remarkable winery has undergone a metamorphosis, redefining itself as Haywire – a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and uncomplicated winemaking. Guided by the visionary minds of Christine Coletta and Steve Lornie, Haywire Winery has etched its name as a leading force in the British Columbia wine industry.

From Server to Visionaries: Christine’s and Steve’s Remarkable Rise

In every remarkable story, there lies a humble beginning. For Christine Coletta, her journey in the world of wine commenced from the most unexpected place – the bustling restaurant scene. With a heart brimming with curiosity and a determination to explore the realms of winemaking, Christine’s path unfolded in the most unconventional manner. Little did she know that this humble start would set her on a trajectory that would shape the future of the BC wine industry.

Beside Christine, stood a driving force that would prove instrumental in this visionary endeavour – Steve Lornie. Together, their shared passion for sustainable and organic farming ignited a spark that would ignite a revolution in the winemaking world. As they ventured into uncharted territory, Christine and Steve’s dedication to tending the land and crafting wines in harmony with nature became the cornerstone of their legacy.

In 2011, Christine and Steve started out on a groundbreaking project that would change the landscape of winemaking in Canada forever. They founded Okanagan Crush Pad, an ambitious venture that would not only establish the country’s first custom crush facility but also nurture the growth of other promising BC winery startups.

With a passion for mentorship and a deep-rooted belief in supporting the industry’s future, Christine and Steve saw Okanagan Crush Pad as a platform for aspiring winemakers to flourish. Through their state-of-the-art facility, winemakers were offered the space and expertise needed to bring their visions to life. The winery became a hotbed of innovation and collaboration, fostering an environment where creativity thrived, and boundaries were pushed.

Step into the new world of Haywire Winery, where innovation intertwines with artistic expression, and every moment is a sensory delight. The winery’s transformation unfolds with the unveiling of a modern tasting lounge – a stunning 1,500-square-foot space that beckons guests to indulge in the pleasures of wine tasting like never before.

Adorned with captivating artwork by Vancouver artist Scott Sueme, the tasting lounge becomes a canvas of inspiration, where vibrant colours and dynamic designs echo the spirit of Haywire’s wines. Sueme’s masterpieces, sprawling across the walls, tell a visual tale of creativity and passion, perfectly reflecting the essence of the winery.

Beyond the tasting lounge lies a unique feature that sets Haywire apart – guests are treated to a ringside view of winemaking action, positioned adjacent to the crush pad. Witnessing the meticulous process of crafting exceptional wines adds a touch of enchantment to the wine-tasting experience, creating an intimate connection between visitors and the artistry behind every bottle.

The winery’s commitment to creating an inspiring and comfortable atmosphere allows visitors to immerse themselves in a world of taste and luxury, where every sip is an exploration of the Okanagan’s vibrant terroir.

At the heart of Haywire Winery beats the rhythm of innovation, a spirit that finds expression in their pioneering use of concrete vessels for winemaking. Anticipating the wave of the ‘concrete movement’ that would soon sweep through the Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Crush Pad blazed the trail by introducing the region’s first six concrete tanks in 2011.

These concrete vessels have since become integral to shaping Haywire’s distinctive winemaking style, characterized by its brightness, liveliness, and vibrancy. The porous nature of concrete facilitates gentle micro-oxygenation, allowing the wines to evolve gracefully while preserving their innate freshness. This innovative approach enhances the wines’ flavours and textures, creating a portfolio that authentically reflects the terroir of the Okanagan Valley, with each sip encapsulating the essence of its unique soils and climate.

By embracing concrete vessels, Haywire Winery not only stays at the forefront of winemaking technology but also reaffirms its commitment to crafting wines that embody the spirit of innovation and the essence of their remarkable terroir. 

In a unique and eco-friendly pest control measure, the winery employs 50 roosters to manage cutworms and grasshoppers, diminishing the reliance on chemical pest control. Craig Pingle, reflecting on these initiatives, states, “Continuously seeking innovative ways to enhance efficiency, be it cost-effective measures or reducing our environmental impact, is part of our ethos.” The winery’s dedication to sustainability exemplifies how a commitment to innovation can make a substantial impact on both the environment and the wine industry.

As Craig Pingle aptly puts it, “A single good idea has the potential to make a significant impact, and that is what drives our efforts.” The credit for these groundbreaking initiatives goes to Haywire Winery’s owner, Christine Coletta, whose unwavering support has made these transformative changes possible.

Craig Pingle, the General Manager of Haywire Winery, expresses the winery’s sentiments, stating, “Our local community is truly appreciated and valued. We want to express our gratitude to the Okanagan residents who have supported us for over 40 years.” Pingle reflects on the enduring presence of the community and their unwavering loyalty, emphasizing, “They’ve stood by us through thick and thin. Now, beyond the challenges of the pandemic, we’re eager to welcome them back with open arms.”

The Certified Local program offers an array of benefits to cardholders, creating a symbiotic relationship between the winery and its cherished community. Cardholders enjoy complimentary flash tastings for themselves and up to three guests, providing a unique opportunity to explore and savor the diverse range of wines crafted by Haywire. Additionally, they receive a 10% discount on any product at the winery at any time, ensuring that the local community can indulge in the finest wines with exclusive perks.

Beyond the winery, Certified Local cardholders receive special privileges at three neighboring resorts and restaurants, fostering a sense of community collaboration. This includes a 15% discount on the best available rates at the Summerland Waterfront Resort, a 15% discount at Zias Stonehouse Restaurant, and a 15% discount on food at Shaughnessy’s Cove restaurant.

The program is not just a token of appreciation; it’s a way for Haywire Winery to give back to the community that has been an integral part of its success. Craig Pingle envisions the Certified Local program as a unique opportunity to do something special for the residents, stating, “Let’s do something special for them, to show that we recognize their enduring presence and appreciate their loyalty over the years.”

The Certified Local card, valid from March 15 to June 15 and from Sept. 15 to Dec. 15, invites residents between Osoyoos and Vernon to come and enjoy complimentary tastings with their friends and family. As Craig Pingle aptly puts it, “Residents between Osoyoos and Vernon, come with your friends and family for a complimentary tasting on us”.

Christine Coletta and Steve Lornie’s enduring partnership and legacy stand as a testament to their shared passion for sustainable winemaking and mentorship. Their unwavering commitment to innovation, responsible agriculture, and a distinctive winemaking style have transformed Haywire Winery into a symbol of excellence in the Canadian wine industry.

Their journey, from humble beginnings to becoming visionaries shaping the BC wine scene, is a celebration of the transformative power of dedication, creativity, and a deep love for the land. As they continue to redefine wine hospitality at Haywire Winery, their legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of winemakers to create extraordinary wines that honour both nature and the human spirit.

Haywire Winery remains a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking unparalleled experiences, where each bottle tells a story of passion, artistry, and the boundless possibilities of winemaking in harmony with the land.