Kitsch Wines looking to relocate and expand in Kelowna

A new 10,200 square foot winery is proposed by Trent and Maria Kitsch near their existing East Kelowna Kitsch Wine operation.

An application is going to Kelowna city council Monday, Jan. 20, that, if approved by council and the Agricultural Land Commission, will allow them to relocate their existing winery to a purpose-built facility nearby.

The new 20-acre site is at 2830 East Kelowna Rd. and was a cherry orchard.

About 14 acres are being converted to grapes but the land commission won’t allow the winery unless at least five acres are not only planted but ready for harvest.

In a letter accompanying the application, Kitsch Wine says they only lease the existing Neid Road vineyard, which is 100 meters away from the new site. It doesn’t have enough power, water or other needed services.

The winery wants a three-year exemption from land commission rules. It also wants relief from a covenant that doesn’t allow them to do anything on a steep hill below the orchard, saying it would be an ideal location for a natural cellar and, possibly, some grape vines.

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