"We set out to assemble a collection of wine that would reflect our vision and Chef Ian Rennie's passion for pairing wine with food in classic and creative ways," says Brown. "The wines in The Cellar were selected to compliment the style of cuisine served in Panache. Chef Rennie creates the menu and we, the sommeliers, work to compliment these creations. Of course, we have also built a cellar that has the technical specifications to keep wines in a way that will allow them to be stored, aged if necessary, and served at their most drinkable. We are extremely proud and excited with the results of our team’s work."

Panache is famous both for its international dining series, with culinary themes from around the world and wines to match, and for its signature winemakers' dinners, often featuring BC's top winemakers. For those occasions, Brown notes, the wines are chosen first and then the chef and sommeliers discuss what styles, flavours, ingredients and cooking techniques the culinary team will use to pair the dishes to the wines. Bottles from most of the world’s wine regions can be found in The Cellar at Bear Mountain, with an emphasis on North America’s West Coast -- BC, Washington, and California.

"In effect, the regions were selected by our guests and members," Brown says. "As we have been operating Panache over several years, we have had the opportunity to learn what our guests and members prefer. Then Janice and I researched producers of great quality wines and set about purchasing with the balance of regions, styles and varieties in mind."

Brown notes that, even with the appearance of many excellent wines from BC and other New World regions, consumers are more knowledgeable than they were only a few years ago, and don't hesitate to order Old World wines. "Diners are tending to be more comfortable ordering more Old World wines likely from Spain, France and Italy. Recently, diners are also ordering more white wines. The average level of consumer wine knowledge has been increasing in the past few years, most likely due to higher media exposure. Food and wine are fashionable subjects and an ongoing conversation we have with our guests. Now we have a showpiece cellar to add to the discussion."

Guests staying at the resort will also have the opportunity to sample the Cellar's collection with regular wine tastings being scheduled. Tours may also be requested, however the Cellar will only be made available for private functions by reservation.

For more information or to book a reservation, please call 250-391-7160.