In the annals of the Okanagan wine industry’s history, amid the fervent discussions surrounding the significance of Oculus and the fervor for Nota Bene, there emerges a chapter deserving of recognition – that of Hatfield’s Fuse. This emblematic white blend hailing from Blasted Church Winery is undeniably one of the most impactful wines to have graced Canadian soil.
From the outset, Hatfield’s Fuse brought forth a playful and consumer-friendly graphic design that was conspicuously absent in our wine industry. It dared to combine an assortment of grapes, consistently imbued with floral notes and just a hint of residual sweetness, rendering it an unequivocal favorite among wine enthusiasts of every persuasion. In fact, it outshone even Conundrum. (I hold the belief that the enduring fascination of BC wine enthusiasts with Viognier can be traced back to their initial exposure via the Hatfield’s blend, a sentiment I bear no grudge against.)
Moreover, the wine always maintained an enticing price point, offering a welcome respite to those beleaguered by their Alberta counterparts’ persistent complaints about the high cost of BC wine. Delightfully, Hatfield’s Fuse remains an even better value today, still priced under $20.
Blasted Church Winery, once celebrated for its ebullient character, has now seamlessly evolved into the Okanagan’s most intriguing and unconventional winery, captivating the discerning wine connoisseur. The transformation is nothing short of remarkable, breathing fresh life into the Okanagan wine scene.
