Anthony Buchanan, Winegrower/Owner

I’m a first-generation farmer and winemaker. I had always enjoyed the culinary experience and learning about wine which made this an easy decision when I was ready for a career change in 2006. After completing several wine-related courses and getting my feet wet in cellars on Vancouver Island and in the Okanagan Valley, I decided I needed more education if we were going to be successful. In 2009 I started the Enology program at Washington State University and shortly after packed up and moved to the Okanagan to fully submerge myself in the wine industry. 

I’ve been extremely lucky to have worked alongside some truly great winemakers which has helped me dial-in my technique and developed my beliefs and philosophies. We started AB Wines in 2014 with a focus on creating wines that best represent the unique vineyards of the Valley and making wines of purity and freshness with minimal intervention. 

My wife Nichol and I run the winery with a little bit of help from our two children Ashlyn and Lawson who you may see from time to time working in the vineyard and helping during harvest, kids are great at cleaning bins and squeegeeing the floors ☺

Nichol Buchanan, Accountant/Owner

Since day one I’ve managed the business side of AB Wines as well as helping in the vineyard and cellar when an extra pair of hands are needed.  With an accounting background I bring a wealth of knowledge and security to the family business, and I handle all the financial aspects of operating a successful winery as well as running my own bookkeeping business. In addition to running my business I’m the personal chauffeur to our two children, and I make sure they are always on time for all after-school activities. 

Ashlyn Buchanan, Helping Hand

I arrived on the scene in 2010 and always enjoyed eating dad’s grapes as they arrive on picking day. I’ve done everything from leaf removal to punchdowns, and recently drew an illustration for our 2021 La Bise. In 2015 mum and dad wanted to say thank you for all my help and they named the Pinot Noir after me. I love drawing, figure skating and spending time with friends and family.

Lawson Buchanan, Helping Hand

I’m the youngest, and according to Ashlyn, I drive her crazy most of the time. I’m dad’s left and right foot when it comes to foot treading grapes and an expert at cap management. During harvest (if you can get me off my tablet) you’ll find me mid-shin in grapes twice per day. In 2016 mum and dad named the Pinot Blanc after me which I’m really proud of. I like playing hockey, soccer, annoying my sister and playing video games, throw in a few cheese strings and you’ve got yourself a happy camper.

Nikki Bayley, Marketing & Tasting Room

I put together copy for our website, newsletters, social media etc, and you’ll also find me excitedly talking about our wines as I pour for guests in the tasting room throughout the season.

I’ve been a writer for the past three decades for titles including the Guardian, Globe & Mail and Eater.com, and I have a monthly food and drink column, and a seasonal BC wine column for BC Living. This is my first time working with a winery and I couldn’t be happier. Looking forward to crush and harvest so I can learn more about how we make wine here.