Directors
Devin Methven - MAG - Treasurer
In the wine industry, there is a belief that "great wine is made in the vineyard". In my world, this is more than just a statement but a philosophy which I choose to live by every day in the vineyards. As a viticulturist, I strive to live by this philosophy, which I do by walking rows, trying to anticipate the next move in the vineyard. It is through time in the vineyard that you can gain a greater understanding of the requirements of the vines and how the terroir of the vineyard is expressed in the fruit.
Over the last decade as a viticulturist, I believe that I am just starting to understand this relationship between the vine and the land. As I continue my career in the wine industry, I will always continue to strive for perfection in the vineyard.
Jody Subotin, Le Vieux Pin/Lastella - Vice President
Jody grew up in vineyards, starting in 1996 during his summer breaks from school. He began his career at Hawthorn Mountain Vineyards in 1997, and by 1999, he served as vineyard manager. In 2000, he moved to Osoyoos Larose, where he learned advanced vineyard practices from Bordeaux. Jody led teams in planting vineyards from the ground up, including clearing land, installing irrigation, and trellising systems, planting vines, and more. He was also introduced to biodynamic agriculture during this time. Currently, he is the Vineyard Manager and Managing Partner at Le Vieux Pin and Lastella Wineries.
Jarnail Brar, Bakshish Farms - Director
Jarnail comes from a farming family, growing up picking berries in Abbotsford. In 1999, his family moved to Oliver and bought a vineyard on the Black Sage Bench. They now own over 100 acres of vineyards, orchards, and ground crops. Jarnail enjoys the challenges of farming, as each year brings something new. He values building community among growers and the opportunity to share knowledge, adapt, and keep the industry moving forward.
Dapinder Gill, Gill Vineyards - Director
Dapinder began working in vineyards as a summer job while studying for his Bachelor of Business at UBCO. Over the years, he has worked in all aspects of vineyard management and the winery. He later earned his Chartered Accountant designation. His contributions extend to serving on the boards of Wine Growers BC and the Oliver Osoyoos Winery Association. He currently maintains his own 25-acre vineyard in Oliver and is the VP of Finance at Dirty Laundry Vineyards.
Gaganjit Dhaliwal, S&B Dhaliwal - Director
Gagan grew up working in family vineyards and developed a renewed interest in grape growing after completing a Viticulture Certificate at Okanagan College. He has also learned from his father and uncle, long-time growers in the Okanagan. Gagan enjoys working outdoors and thrives on the challenges farming brings each season. He joined the BCGA Board of Directors to help build the industry for future generations and strengthen BC's reputation as a world-class wine region.
Bobby Ercego, Andrew Peller - President
Bobby Ercego is a viticulturalist with extensive experience in the wine industry. He has held positions such as Vineyard Manager at Play Estate Winery and Ercego Vineyards. Currently, he is the Vineyard Manager at Andrew Peller and works with unique varietals at Terravista Vineyards. He also shares his expertise through teaching WSET classes and leading the Wine Growers British Columbia Ambassador Program
Troy Osborne, Arterra Wines Canada - Director
Troy began his viticulture career at Quails’ Gate Vineyards, quickly advancing to a management role. In 2001, he moved to Arterra Wines Canada, where he is now Director of Western Viticulture, overseeing 1,100 acres of vineyard. Troy believes in the value of collaboration and collective learning, which contribute to the success of the BC wine industry.
Jon Furkalo, Earlco Vineyards Ltd. - Director
Jon has farmed vineyards in the Okanagan, BC, and Niagara, ON, for several years. After earning a Viticulture Certificate from Washington State University, he put down roots in Penticton, BC. Working for Earlco has allowed Jon to expand his knowledge by collaborating with multiple wineries, winemakers, and vineyards. As a member of the Sustainable Wine Growing BC committee, Jon now focuses on sustainable farming practices to improve the health and longevity of the industry. In winter, Jon teaches Viticulture at Okanagan College, hoping to inspire the next generation of farmers to reach their full potential.
Rowan Stewart - Quails Gate - Director
Rowan Stewart began his career in the Quails' Gate vineyards in 2004. He has experience at Quails' Gate Winery, having worked three harvests there, providing insights, particularly on the Rosemary's Block Chardonnay. Rowan studied Viticulture and comes from a winemaking family.
Contact BCGA
Post Office Box 1138,
Penticton, BC, V2A 6J9
EMAIL: BCGA@grapegrowers.bc.ca
PHONE: 1 877 762 4652