Located in the Thompson‑Okanagan, DS Estate Vineyards is investing in the long‑term success of its vineyard through thoughtful replanting and site‑specific decision‑making, supported by the Enhanced Replant Program (ERP). 

Through ERP’s Wine Grape Replant stream, DS Estate Vineyards undertook a major vineyard renewal project, removing 27 acres of wine grapes and replanting 24 acres with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, two varieties well‑suited to the region’s growing conditions and long‑term market demand. The project maintained the same commodity while allowing the operation to modernize its vineyard layout and infrastructure. 

One of the key benefits of ERP support was the flexibility it provided. With program funding, DS Estate Vineyards was able to adjust planting density to 1,800 plants per acre, resulting in approximately 26,000 new vines planted across the site, a strategic change designed to better match soil conditions, vineyard goals, and future performance.

“This year, we undertook the significant task of replanting a young vineyard, and the support from this program played a key role in making it a success,” says Gurlal Dhaliwal. “With the funding and flexibility provided, we were able to make thoughtful changes to the vineyard’s design, including adjusting the planting density to better suit the site’s conditions and long-term goals.” 

Careful variety selection was another major outcome of the project. By focusing on grapes well‑matched to the local climate, DS Estate Vineyards has already seen strong early growth and healthy vine development, setting the stage for improved quality and sustainability in future vintages.

Beyond the physical improvements to the vineyard, the replant project delivered valuable insights into site‑specific planning and long‑term vineyard resilience. “This experience not only helped us strengthen the foundation of our vineyard, but also gave us valuable insights into site‑specific planting decisions,” Dhaliwal adds.

By supporting projects like this, the Enhanced Replant Program helps BC wine grape producers replace low‑performing acreage with climate‑resilient, in‑demand varieties, strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of the province’s agriculture sector for years to come.

ERP is funded by the Government of BC via the Ministry of Agriculture and Food. The program is delivered by IAF. In February 2025, DS Estate Vineyards Ltd. was approved to receive $63,129.61 in funding from ERP to replant 27 acres of wine grapes. For a full list of approved ERP projects, visit iafbc.ca/erp/approved-projects/.