Alex Viol
Wine Experience Manager
Having fallen in love with BC on his honeymoon in 2019, Alex decided to emigrate to the Okanagan from the UK with his partner and dogs in September 2020. This move was a chance to make a new home together in Canada, but also an opportunity for a much needed career change. Having worked as a project manager in telecommunications and engineering for fifteen years, Alex decided to make the most of moving to BC’s beautiful wine country, follow his passion and love for food and wine, and set about pursuing his formal wine education while starting a position at Mission Hill winery. Having completed his WSET2 & WSET3 with distinction, Alex joined Peak Cellars in January 2022 and became our Wine Experience Manager later that summer, after completing his first level accreditation with the Court of Master Sommeliers. Currently studying his WSET4 Diploma, Alex is motivated to learn more about every aspect of the wine industry, and further collaborate with our fantastic Peak team to create and deliver unforgettable food and wine experiences for each and every guest.
Nikki Callaway O'Rourke Family Estate Winemaker
Nikki joined our team in June 2019 and brought with her a serious winemaking pedigree. She completed a Masters in Enology from the prestigious Université de Bordeaux and gained viticulture and winemaking experience in various regions of France including Beaujolais, the Loire, and multiple appellations in Bordeaux (Margaux, Pessac-Leognan, Blaye and Cotes de Bourg). Nikki returned to Canada 10 years ago to work in the Okanagan Valley, a region that was brand new to her at the time. Since then she has specialized in northern valley fruit including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and aromatic whites.
Nikki has proven her talents through significant roles at major British Columbia wineries such as Mission Hill and Quails’ Gate. In 2011, a pinot noir she produced was awarded the ‘World’s Best Pinot Noir’ at the Decanter World Wine Awards.
Nikki possesses a keen interest in both viticulture and winemaking. Her passion for small-lot premium production combined with her attention to detail make her the perfect match for our state-of-the-art project and estate grown fruit.
We welcome her passion and commitment as the best winemakers are those who truly live and breathe this industry, and Nikki achieves this everyday.
Monique May
Wine Club Coordinator
Monique and her husband vacationed to the Okanagan for many years and made the transition to the Okanagan from Edmonton 6 years ago. This is her 3rd season working with Peak Cellars. Monique started out as a wine educator and transitioned to our Wine Club Concierge in the fall of 2019.
Monique has 30 plus years in the customer service industry. Her passion is building relationships and creating elevated experiences for our wine club members. She has her WSET Level 1 and is expanding her wine knowledge constantly. When she is not at the winery handling the needs of the wine club members you can find her enjoying the weather and hitting a round of golf.
Kathryn & Carlos
Concierge
Kathryn joins the O’Rourke’s Team from Vancouver, BC. With a vast background of Events and Hospitality. Kathryn joins the Lake Country team with energy and a passion for exceptional service. Coming with a breadth of experience in the Hotel, Attraction and Events Industry, Kathryn is excited to join the team and grow with the exciting O’Rourke’s brand.
Carlos joins our team from Vancouver, B.C. Born and raised in Mexico, Carlos moved to Canada in 2008 and started his work experience in the hospitality industry as a cook at Goldies Pizza in Vancouver. In 2010 he joined the Vancouver Convention Centre as a Setup Attendant. During his 11 years at the Centre Carlos worked and participated on the planning and execution of a variety of events such as, TED Talks, multiple editions of the Vancouver International Wine Festival, Vancouver International AutoShow and many others. Carlos performed different roles at the Centre, from Ambassador of Guest Experience to Facility Setup Manager.