In the heart of Naramata Bench, overlooking the shimmering waters of Okanagan Lake, stands Deep Roots Winery. It is not just a winery; it’s the culmination of a century-long story of family, resilience, and connection to the land. For Bryan and Deb Hardman, along with their son Will, Deep Roots is more than a name. It’s a way of life that traces back four generations.
A Legacy Planted in Orchards
The Hardman family’s story begins with Bryan’s grandfather, who emigrated from Bolton, England, in 1910. A mechanic by trade, he arrived in Canada on the cusp of World War I and served with the Canadian forces, driving ambulances through Flanders’ fields. Upon returning to Naramata, he worked alongside the Aikins family, operating farm equipment and tending orchards across what is now the Naramata Bench.
By the mid-20th century, the Hardman family had firmly established themselves as orchardists. Bryan’s father, who served in the Royal Air Force during World War II, returned to continue the family’s farming legacy. But when he passed away in 1973, 22-year-old Bryan found himself stepping into the role of farmer.
“I didn’t choose farming, it chose me,” Bryan reflected. “After my dad passed, it was just what needed to be done.”
Bryan poured himself into the orchards, modernizing techniques, replanting with new apple varieties, and becoming a leader in the farming community. He was elected Vice President of the COOP and later served as President of BC Tree Fruits. Yet, as the economics of fruit farming shifted, Bryan began looking for opportunities to adapt.
From Orchardist to Vintner
In the late 1990s, Bryan decided to make a bold move, converting the family’s orchards to vineyards. The first vines were planted in 1997, and over the next 15 years, the 20-acre property was gradually transformed, one manageable 5-acre section (or 1 sprayer load) at a time.
“We saw that grape growers were getting paid faster. With tree fruits, it could take over a year to see a return,” Bryan explained. “With grapes, you get a contract, know exactly what you’ll be paid and could receive payment in as little as 2- 3 months”
This transition was not without its challenges, but Bryan credits much of their success to support from the provincial government and advisors like winemaker Tom Debelo, who provided guidance on new planting methods and grape varieties. “I didn’t study agriculture or soil science. Everything I learned was hands-on or through programs like the ones the BC Grape Growers Association helped run. That support was invaluable,” Bryan said.
Deb’s steady career with Interior Health provided financial stability during the transition. “She was the backbone,” Bryan said. “Her work gave us the stability we needed while we took the risk of starting over with grapes.”
Passing the Torch
As Bryan managed the vineyards, his son Will grew up helping on the farm. Every year, Bryan and Will would sit down for a post-harvest conversation, reflecting on the year and looking ahead. “It wasn’t just about farming,” Bryan explained. “I wanted Will to think about his future, about what he wanted to do.”
Will showed an interest in winemaking, and in 2011, Bryan encouraged him to explore the craft abroad. Will traveled to New Zealand, working with Mud House Winery, and later to South Africa to experience a harvest season. “When he came back, he was fired up,” Deb said. “He couldn’t stop talking about winemaking on the drive home from the airport. That’s when we knew this was his passion.”
Recognizing the importance of community and mentorship, Bryan sought the same kind of support for Will that he had once received. “I knew how valuable it was to have guidance, so we hired a consultant for Will, someone he could call anytime for advice,” Bryan said. The Hardmans also received encouragement from their neighbors, the Van Westen family, who helped Will produce his first vintage in 2012.
The Birth of Deep Roots
Ignited with a new desire to make wine, it was within two weeks of WIll’s return from South Africa they decided the path forward was to build their own winery. By 2012, construction on the winery had begun, and in May 2014, Deep Roots Winery officially opened its doors. The inaugural wines were 2012 reds and 2013 whites which were a testament to the family’s dedication and vision.
“Starting the winery wasn’t just about making wine,” Bryan said. “It was about taking control of our future. For years, we sold grapes to big wineries, who were buying land and temporarily buying grapes for 3 to 4 years until they reached full production and could produce their own.”
Today, Deep Roots produces around 3,500 cases annually, using estate-grown fruit and additional grapes from local growers.
Resilience Through Adversity
Farming is never without challenges, and the winter of 2024 brought one of the toughest tests yet. A brutal cold snap devastated crops across the Okanagan, including Deep Roots’ vineyards.
Yet the Hardmans remain optimistic. “Farming teaches you resilience,” Bryan reflected. “It’s about weathering the tough seasons and celebrating the good ones.”
A Community of Support
Deep Roots Winery stands as a testament to the power of community and connection. Alongside neighboring wineries on the beautiful Aikins Loop including Van Westen Vineyards, JoieFarm Winery, and Elephant Island Winery, the Hardmans have built relationships that strengthen the region’s wine culture.
Recognized Excellence
In 2023, Deep Roots Winery was named Small Winery of the Year, a proud moment that reflects the Hardman family’s commitment to quality and heritage.
Visit Deep Roots
Deep Roots isn’t just a winery; it’s an invitation to experience a family’s story. Visitors are welcomed into the tasting room by Will’s partner, Heather, who brings warmth and a deep knowledge of the wines, while Will shares his passion for winemaking.
“We’re proud of our roots here in the soil, in this community, and in every bottle of wine we produce,” Deb said.
Plan your visit to Deep Roots Winery to taste the wines that celebrate the heritage of the Naramata Bench. You can also shop online, support local, and join the waitlist for the Wine Club to become part of the family.
