The Okanagan is abuzz with activity.

This year's Spring Wine Festival was one of the most successful yet -- marked by a host of innovative events and new winery openings.

However, some of those new happenings come courtesy of old favourites, such as Gray Monk. The Okanagan Centre winery established by George and Trudy Heiss in 1972 continues to be one of the region's most consistent -- and affordable -- producers.

Also, if you haven't been to Gray Monk recently, you'll be amazed by the expansion that now incorporates a tasteful hospitality centre (right at the parking lot level), with offices and extra cellar space below; and a glass-fronted elevator down to the Grapevine Restaurant, giant patio and catering facility under chef Willi Franz. All have stunning Lake Okanagan views, of course!

We love the point of difference that Gray Monk offers, especially with its refusal to give up growing and making the likes of Ehrenfesler, Siegerrebe and Rotberger -- all of which sell just as well as the more "mainstream" varieties, by the way.

Wine is ultimately very much about people and personality -- which Gray Monk has in spades.

We're also really happy that the winery has heeded the cries of "When are you going screw-cap?" from the Hired Belly and others, by putting all of its deserving whites (and even some reds) in Stelvin. And -- in true Heiss style -- has even created a T-shirt with a thoughtful quote to mark the event: "I used to Get Corked . . . Now I'm Screwed!"

Here's what to watch for in particular from the current release:

- Gray Monk Rotberger '09. A must-have dry rosé. Red berries and earthy notes on top with juicy acidity, cherry and raspberry and spice in the end. Perfect for (serious) picnics. BCLS $15.99.

- Gray Monk Latitude 50 Red '08. The mainstay red blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir delivers layers of cherry, strawberry and spice, with good structure and peppery spice close. BCLS $13.99.

- Gray Monk Merlot '07. Lifted cherry and plum on the nose with good mouthfeel, easy tannins with mocha and toasty vanilla. From S. Okanagan Bremmer Vineyard. Think barbecued anything. $17.99

- Gray Monk Ehrenfelser 2009. While Pinot Blanc '09 and Unwooded Chard '09 are both keepers, we have a soft spot for this almost late-harvest, off-dry white, with a burst of floral and citrus on top, followed by a luscious orange and stonefruit apricot palate through a rich but clean close. Think mild cheeses, fruit inclined salads -- or goat cheese blended vanilla ice cream! BCLS $16.99.

The new look Gray Monk is a don't-miss taste 'n dine spot on any Okanagan tour!