Today we were visiting Abbotsford for the weekend and started our first day and out first stop at one of the most photogenic outdoor spaces in the city. So much so, that they were even hosting a wedding during our visit.
We ended up arriving early so took the time enjoy their green space with koi pond and free roaming dogs. When the weather permits, patio dining is the way to go. We held our early bird position by the pond to enjoy the sounds of water running and hungry fish splashing.
Their drink menu includes spirits and wines from the two brands they represent. We decided to try their wine via a flight, as our next two stops were of the spirit family. A flight is the best way to sample their wine, 4 glasses at 2oz each. On top of regular wine with grapes, they also offer fruit variations as well.
However, you can also sample from their wide selection of flavoured gins and vodka at the bar. There is blueberry, mango passion fruit, elderflower, and honey pecan; to name a few.
And if you are going to do wine, charcuterie is a great food pairing. They do not offer fulsome meals, more light bistro snacks to nibble on. This is an assortment of local and imported meats and cheeses, olives, pickles, crackers, and baguette slices for two. The perfect grazing board to build off the picnic vibes.
And seeing how dynamic a few of their cocktails are, we had to indulge. The Maple Bacon Fashioned is served in a cloche surrounded by thick plumes of fragrant smoke. The scent flavours and adds pageantry to your drinking session, once lifted and your high ball is revealed. This is a sweet and savoury spin on a traditional ‘Old Fashioned’.
And who doesn’t love a good bubble moment? I couldn’t walk away without trying either of their two flavoured smoke bubble cocktails. This is the Blackberry Vodka Sour with tangy blackberry, tropical mango, and lemon; topped with a passionfruit bubble. The bubble is fragile and fleeting, so it this smoke domed is gunned table side. We witnessed this for ourselves as we watched several attempts not stick.
For those unfamiliar this may seem like a hidden gem. Although the locals know it as a great hot spot you can enjoy the tranquility of nature within, while sipping on stiff drinks, just as show stopping. I highly recommend that you don’t miss out on this one, the next time you are in Abbotsford.
Ripples Winery & New Wave Distilling
3387 Tolmie Rd, Abbotsford, BC V3G 2T9
(604) 864-1033
rippleswinerynewwavedistilling.com
