Located in Mt. Lehman, a small rural community in Abbotsford in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, Singletree Winery is a family-operated vineyard with a deep-rooted connection to the land. Founded in 2010 by Garnet and Debbie Etsell, Singletree Winery is a testament to the family’s commitment to BC agriculture and their passion for crafting quality wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir.
A Journey to Winemaking
The Etsell family’s journey to winemaking began years earlier, with Garnet and Debbie initially operating a successful farm in Mt. Lehman. Compelled by a love for farming and the desire to build a legacy for future generations, the Etsells embraced the challenges of rural life, even as “city kids,” as Debbie Etsell puts it. When their son Andrew expressed a desire to join the family business and was interested in growing grapes, they saw an opportunity to expand their operations. After completing his horticultural degree, Andrew pursued further studies at the University of California, Davis, one of North America’s top schools for viticulture and enology and returned with a vision to establish a winery on the family farm.
After careful research and planning, the family planted their first vines in 2010, focusing primarily on white varieties like Siegerrebe and Pinot Gris, with some Pinot Noir. These grape varieties thrive in the Fraser Valley’s warm summers and mild winters, and the bountiful soils of Mt. Lehman add to the character of each grape.
Tapping into History
The winery’s name, Singletree, is not named for a singular tree, but rather is a nod to the single harness yoke that pioneering farmers used to clear the land for agriculture in Mt. Lehman. Like those farmers, the Etsell family is dedicated to working the land with respect, and their branding honours that tradition. With modern conveniences at their disposal, the Etsells have blended historical reverence with contemporary winemaking to bring BC’s terroir to life.
One of Singletree’s standout wines is its flagship wine, Siggy Siegerrebe. This highly aromatic best-selling white wine bursts with notes of peach, pear, and lychee, making it accessible to new wine enthusiasts and seasoned tasters alike. Alongside the Siggy, which is a still white wine, Singletree also produces a sparkling Siegerrebe named Victory, as Siegerrebe means “victory vine” in German. The portfolio also includes a Pinot Gris, a Sauvignon Blanc, a Rosé, and a Merlot, as well as a Bordeaux-style red blend called Harness, a dessert Viognier, and a Grüner Veltliner.
An Evening to Remember
Visitors to Singletree Winery are invited to explore the vineyard, enjoy tastings, and experience the scenic charm of Fraser Valley wine country. The winery also offers unique experiences like the Di Vine Domes—beautiful, heated domes for intimate gatherings or special occasions in the cooler months. For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, Singletree has also introduced wine cabanas complete with firepits and blankets, making it possible to savour a glass of wine outside year-round. Their popular Wine Down Fridays, which feature live music and local artists, are another way they bring the community together to enjoy music, wine, and good company.
Capturing the heart of BC winemaking, Singletree Winery is family-driven, rooted in history, and committed to quality. With every glass, they invite visitors to share in their passion for the land, agriculture, and the Fraser Valley.
Up Next: Blasted Church Vineyards
In the next installation of BC Sips to Support, we will visit Blasted Church Vineyards, a winery known for its bold brand and innovative approach to winemaking. Stay tuned to discover what makes Blasted Church wines so special and why the winery is a must-visit destination in Okanagan Falls.
BC Sips to Support
‘BC Sips to Support’ is an 8-part series celebrating BC producers creating outstanding beverages, each with its own unique story, flavours, and impact on the community. Compiled by Town Hall Brands, a marketing and branding agency with a passion for promoting quality products, this series aims to shine a light on some of the best BC distilleries, wineries, and makers they work with within our region. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning to explore locally crafted beverages, each feature will introduce you to a brand committed to quality, creativity, and connection.
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Author Profile
- ‘BC Sips to Support’, an 8-part series celebrating BC producers creating outstanding beverages, each with its own unique story, flavours, and impact on the community. Compiled by Town Hall Brands, a marketing and branding agency with a passion for promoting quality products, this series aims to shine a light on some of the best BC distilleries, wineries, and makers they work within our region. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning to explore locally crafted beverages, each feature will introduce you to a brand committed to quality, creativity, and connection.
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