In the heart of Oliver, B.C.—Canada’s wine capital—a new generation is rewriting the script of what a modern winery looks like. Manpreet Dhaliwal, the Head Winemaker at Kismet Estate Winery, has officially been named a BCBusiness 30 Under 30 honouree for 2026.
The recognition is a milestone not just for the winery, but for the industry at large: Manpreet stands as Canada’s first and only South Asian female head winemaker. Originally trained as a practical nurse, she transitioned into the cellar during the pandemic to support her family’s business, learning the craft from the ground up before taking the helm at age 26.
A Vintage of Early Accolades
Under Manpreet’s leadership, Kismet’s “quality-over-quantity” philosophy has reached new heights. Her first full vintage has already secured over 10 accolades, with Platinum, Double Gold, and Gold recognitions for releases like the 2024 Phulkari Rosé and the 2022 Cabernet Franc Reserve.
This spring, the winery introduces its most personal expression yet: the Virsa Series. Meaning “heritage” or “legacy” in Punjabi, this limited annual release is crafted from the top 1 per cent of each vintage. The inaugural bottling is limited to just 58 cases, making it a true collector’s item for B.C. wine enthusiasts.
Culture, Cuisine and “Manzil”
Kismet is more than a tasting room; it is a cultural destination anchored in the Dhaliwal family’s heritage. A recent CBC feature, “Uncorking Tradition,” highlights how Manpreet and her sister Neelam are honouring Punjabi culture through their work in the South Okanagan.
At the heart of the hospitality experience is Manzil, the on-site Indian restaurant. Led by a female-driven team, Manzil serves regional Indian dishes rarely found in North America, specifically designed to pair with Kismet’s bold, aromatic wines.
What’s New for the 2026 Season
If you’re planning a trip to the South Okanagan, here is what to look for at Kismet this year:
- The Wine Club Exclusive: The 2025 Viognier Reserve, a fresh, fruit-forward release limited to just 50 cases.
- The Return of a Favourite: The popular Phulkari Rosé is back for the season.
- The Stay: This summer, Kismet is expanding into an overnight destination with the addition of on-site accommodations.
- The Celebration: Mark your calendars for Friday, April 18, 2026, for a red-carpet Winemaker’s Dinner featuring a multi-course meal from Manzil and paired wines to celebrate Manpreet’s 30 Under 30 recognition.
Kismet is currently open for the season, with weekend wine tastings and small bites available at Manzil on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. —Noa Nichol
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