Checkmate’s End Game is my absolute favourite wine. In my opinion it is the very best Canadian Merlot. Delicious! Keep up the good work!
Andy Y
Checkmate offers premium wines from the Okanagan but my recent experience with them was atrocious.To them, a $650 wine order is simply not worth their effort to follow-up.The order i placed on Feb 22nd was solicited by their sales team. Yes, they called me, based upon my past purchases from the winery. I was told I had special access to their wine library before the public release - delivery would be quick and easy.About 1.5 weeks later, my order had not arrived. I reached out and was informed one of the bottles i ordered was not available. In my mind, I wondered why did you solicit and sell me something not available? And why didn't you contact me to let me know? if I didn't call, how long would my order sit there?Nonetheless I was offered a replacement bottle at similar cost and to just get this order done, I said send it. She was apologetic and told me it would be asap free shipping, i should receive within 3 days, but less than a week. Well, another week passed and still nothing. You know that feeling you've been suckered ?I sent an email last week outlining the above issues and told them to just cancel/refund my order. The reply was another apology from someone higher up the chain, and a 'I will get this resolved for you today'. I was offered a free bottle to keep my order but i pretty much didn't want to be strung along anymore.The interactions were all pleasant, they certainly know what to say, spin things in a positive light, but fail to deliver (literally) on what matters.Update: I did receive my refund.
Dylan Douglas
Colin's exceptional service at the winery in the Okanagan surpassed all expectations. With a wealth of knowledge and a passion for the vineyard, she guided us through a truly enchanting experience. Her attention to detail and warm hospitality made our visit unforgettable. A true ambassador for the winery – Colin's service was nothing short of outstanding.
Mike Carr
What an amazing winetasting experience,an amazing winery& vineyards. We were greeted by James with a glass of Chardonnay as he explained the different vineyards & tour of the premises,very knowledgeable. We then had a seated tasting in a beautiful tasting room,views of the Golden Mile & beyond. James explained each of the wines in depth & where they came from. His knowledge of the terroir& vines was extremely informative. Beautiful afternoon,will be hard to come close to a winetasting like this. Would give this a ten rating if they had one.
Philippe-Alexandre A. Beauchamp
Such a beautiful winery! The wine is out of this world (best we had in the Okenagan for sure), service is amazing (Thank you John!!), and the setting is really unique.
Casey Melissa
The property is stunning, views are decent, and wine is delicious (as well as their charcuterie). We've been there 3 times now, and the first two times the service was more rude than good, but this last time was amazing!
Jun Y
Every year I visit Checkmate, and each time, the experience surpasses my expectations. Laura elevated the wine tasting to a whole new level by guiding us through the best experiences. As a member, I already had considerable knowledge about the wine, but Laura took it to the next level. She showed us the distinct characteristics and flavors of each wine, and how various palate combinations can enhance their complexity. I'm eagerly looking forward to our next visit, and I hope to see Laura there again. The team at Checkmate is simply the best.
R Taylor
Great experience last week at the winery! Sarah and James prepared a special tasting event for us and a group of friends that was above and beyond. Nianci followed up with us, as it was her day off, to make sure that all was great. Always "First Class" treatment at Checkmate!
Akira Y
Every year I visit Checkmate, and each time, the experience surpasses my expectations. Laura elevated the wine tasting to a whole new level by guiding us through the best experiences. As a member, I already had considerable knowledge about the wine, but Laura took it to the next level. She showed us the distinct characteristics and flavors of each wine, and how various palate combinations can enhance their complexity. I'm eagerly looking forward to our next visit, and I hope to see Laura there again. The team at Checkmate is simply the best.
Sara was an increadable ambasador. Our wine tour felt very bespoke and origonal.Her knowlege of the estate was rich and filled with the vison of the wine makers.The wine lived up to its incrediable scores.... We cant wait to see what the future holds for this winery.The building was an arrchechtual wonder and felt exciting and inviting.This is a must see, the highlight of our day!!Thank You.
Farinaz Lari
I’ve been a member here for a little over 2 years. The wine is spectacular. High quality.The service is continuously improving. Luxurious experience.Ask for John Schmidt for an exquisite tasting journey.
Mike Kent
Good afternoon guys. Just wanted to let you know about our experience with your facility. It did not go well. As a local to Oliver I was really disappointed. I brought some family who was visiting. When we first arrived finding the main door/wall was a neat trick, however once inside there was no one there to greet us. After several minutes I ended up calling your guys main line but no one picked up since no one was attending the front. I decided to walk into the main area and look for some help but there was no one around except for one other random couple. As we were about to leave a young girl came out and greeted us and gave us the quick run down. Suffice to say at 40$ a tasting for 4 wines for 4 people was quite a lot ($160). Once were were able to see your pricing list (average price per bottle being $100) we realized that your establishment is not meant for the locals. So moving forward it is a shame you guys have placed yourself in a position where most locals are priced out of your wines entirely. I understand what you are trying to market to, however the overall experience left a terrible taste with my family. We shall not be returning.
Mark Holick
We recently visited Checkmate on Mother’s Day with our mom’s. What a place. We were greeted warmly by all staff as we entered. Colin looked after us so well. She went above and beyond to say the least. Great views, great staff, and of course, great wine. I’d recommend Little Pawn. It was my favourite. We will return.
Luis-Carlos Ferrigno
If you are not a Chardonnay drinker, you will be after a tasting here. Who knew that Chardonnay could be so versatile and delicious. It is such a beautiful building as soon as you arrive, and greeted by the staff by name I was very impressed. All the staff are super friendly and very knowledgeable. They even brought out a delicious charcuterie board that had some local meats and cheeses. It was such a joy getting to hear the stories of the wines told by the staff. My favorite Chardonnay was the 2019 Knights Challenge and 2020 Queen's Taken. Oh I also don't want to forget their amazing Merlots, the 2019 Opening Gambit was so delicious, but I ended up taking a bottle of the 2019 Silent Bishop home. I hope to go back soon and pick up a couple more bottles for my cellar. Thank you James and Sarah for hosting my family. Definitely should be on any wine enthusiast's places to visit in the okanagan.
Just the best!!! 10/10 recommend
Checkmate’s End Game is my absolute favourite wine. In my opinion it is the very best Canadian Merlot. Delicious! Keep up the good work!
Checkmate offers premium wines from the Okanagan but my recent experience with them was atrocious.To them, a $650 wine order is simply not worth their effort to follow-up.The order i placed on Feb 22nd was solicited by their sales team. Yes, they called me, based upon my past purchases from the winery. I was told I had special access to their wine library before the public release - delivery would be quick and easy.About 1.5 weeks later, my order had not arrived. I reached out and was informed one of the bottles i ordered was not available. In my mind, I wondered why did you solicit and sell me something not available? And why didn't you contact me to let me know? if I didn't call, how long would my order sit there?Nonetheless I was offered a replacement bottle at similar cost and to just get this order done, I said send it. She was apologetic and told me it would be asap free shipping, i should receive within 3 days, but less than a week. Well, another week passed and still nothing. You know that feeling you've been suckered ?I sent an email last week outlining the above issues and told them to just cancel/refund my order. The reply was another apology from someone higher up the chain, and a 'I will get this resolved for you today'. I was offered a free bottle to keep my order but i pretty much didn't want to be strung along anymore.The interactions were all pleasant, they certainly know what to say, spin things in a positive light, but fail to deliver (literally) on what matters.Update: I did receive my refund.
Colin's exceptional service at the winery in the Okanagan surpassed all expectations. With a wealth of knowledge and a passion for the vineyard, she guided us through a truly enchanting experience. Her attention to detail and warm hospitality made our visit unforgettable. A true ambassador for the winery – Colin's service was nothing short of outstanding.
What an amazing winetasting experience,an amazing winery& vineyards. We were greeted by James with a glass of Chardonnay as he explained the different vineyards & tour of the premises,very knowledgeable. We then had a seated tasting in a beautiful tasting room,views of the Golden Mile & beyond. James explained each of the wines in depth & where they came from. His knowledge of the terroir& vines was extremely informative. Beautiful afternoon,will be hard to come close to a winetasting like this. Would give this a ten rating if they had one.
Such a beautiful winery! The wine is out of this world (best we had in the Okenagan for sure), service is amazing (Thank you John!!), and the setting is really unique.
The property is stunning, views are decent, and wine is delicious (as well as their charcuterie). We've been there 3 times now, and the first two times the service was more rude than good, but this last time was amazing!
Every year I visit Checkmate, and each time, the experience surpasses my expectations. Laura elevated the wine tasting to a whole new level by guiding us through the best experiences. As a member, I already had considerable knowledge about the wine, but Laura took it to the next level. She showed us the distinct characteristics and flavors of each wine, and how various palate combinations can enhance their complexity. I'm eagerly looking forward to our next visit, and I hope to see Laura there again. The team at Checkmate is simply the best.
Great experience last week at the winery! Sarah and James prepared a special tasting event for us and a group of friends that was above and beyond. Nianci followed up with us, as it was her day off, to make sure that all was great. Always "First Class" treatment at Checkmate!
Every year I visit Checkmate, and each time, the experience surpasses my expectations. Laura elevated the wine tasting to a whole new level by guiding us through the best experiences. As a member, I already had considerable knowledge about the wine, but Laura took it to the next level. She showed us the distinct characteristics and flavors of each wine, and how various palate combinations can enhance their complexity. I'm eagerly looking forward to our next visit, and I hope to see Laura there again. The team at Checkmate is simply the best.
Restaurantji Recommends
Sara was an increadable ambasador. Our wine tour felt very bespoke and origonal.Her knowlege of the estate was rich and filled with the vison of the wine makers.The wine lived up to its incrediable scores.... We cant wait to see what the future holds for this winery.The building was an arrchechtual wonder and felt exciting and inviting.This is a must see, the highlight of our day!!Thank You.
I’ve been a member here for a little over 2 years. The wine is spectacular. High quality.The service is continuously improving. Luxurious experience.Ask for John Schmidt for an exquisite tasting journey.
Good afternoon guys. Just wanted to let you know about our experience with your facility. It did not go well. As a local to Oliver I was really disappointed. I brought some family who was visiting. When we first arrived finding the main door/wall was a neat trick, however once inside there was no one there to greet us. After several minutes I ended up calling your guys main line but no one picked up since no one was attending the front. I decided to walk into the main area and look for some help but there was no one around except for one other random couple. As we were about to leave a young girl came out and greeted us and gave us the quick run down. Suffice to say at 40$ a tasting for 4 wines for 4 people was quite a lot ($160). Once were were able to see your pricing list (average price per bottle being $100) we realized that your establishment is not meant for the locals. So moving forward it is a shame you guys have placed yourself in a position where most locals are priced out of your wines entirely. I understand what you are trying to market to, however the overall experience left a terrible taste with my family. We shall not be returning.
We recently visited Checkmate on Mother’s Day with our mom’s. What a place. We were greeted warmly by all staff as we entered. Colin looked after us so well. She went above and beyond to say the least. Great views, great staff, and of course, great wine. I’d recommend Little Pawn. It was my favourite. We will return.
If you are not a Chardonnay drinker, you will be after a tasting here. Who knew that Chardonnay could be so versatile and delicious. It is such a beautiful building as soon as you arrive, and greeted by the staff by name I was very impressed. All the staff are super friendly and very knowledgeable. They even brought out a delicious charcuterie board that had some local meats and cheeses. It was such a joy getting to hear the stories of the wines told by the staff. My favorite Chardonnay was the 2019 Knights Challenge and 2020 Queen's Taken. Oh I also don't want to forget their amazing Merlots, the 2019 Opening Gambit was so delicious, but I ended up taking a bottle of the 2019 Silent Bishop home. I hope to go back soon and pick up a couple more bottles for my cellar. Thank you James and Sarah for hosting my family. Definitely should be on any wine enthusiast's places to visit in the okanagan.