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Allison Markin

Allison Markin

Castanet

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Bidding a fond farewell

The kitchen is closed I started writing this column with one purpose in mind, to shine a light on the flavours, people and stories that make the...

04.09.2025 2

Castanet

Allison Markin

It’s in the books for fall

Once or twice a year, I put together a reading list for the upcoming season. As the weather seems to have already turned towards fall, here are a few...

21.08.2025 4

Castanet

Allison Markin

BC bubbles come of age

There’s somewhat of a shift happening in the Okanagan wine scene—once quiet, but the volume keeps going up—thanks to a steady stream of bubbly....

07.08.2025 2

Castanet

Allison Markin

A mid-summer arts break

As the hot Okanagan summer rolls on, you may want to indulge your creative side in the comfort of an air-conditioned gallery or by enjoying an evening...

24.07.2025 3

Castanet

Allison Markin

South Okanagan sips, bites

At the southern tip of the Okanagan Valley, there is a cool and homey vibe in and around Oliver-Osoyoos, known for its family-run fruit stands and...

10.07.2025 3

Castanet

Allison Markin

Discovering a hidden gem

Taking a turn west off Highway 97 at Summerland’s Jones Flat Road, then an eventual north on Garnet Valley Road, puts you on a gently twisting road...

26.06.2025 2

Castanet

Allison Markin

Local eats for Oilers fans

As I compile these suggestions for Stanely Cup viewing parties, it’s the day of game two of the Stanley Cup final. Therefore, we may all be getting...

12.06.2025 6

Castanet

Allison Markin

A taste of the Okanagan

For me, a road trip to Naramata is around 20 minutes if I hit a red light on my way through Penticton. I obey the speed limit on the sinuous Naramata...

29.05.2025 7

Castanet

Allison Markin

AI view of region is not OK

On occasion, especially when I have a mild case of writer’s block, I’ll pull up an artificial intelligence writing tool and ask it what I should...

15.05.2025 4

Castanet

Allison Markin

Low- and no-alcohol drinks

Many studies and surveys have been tabulated in recent years that track changing consumer habits when it comes to alcohol consumption. To sum things...

02.05.2025 3

Castanet

Allison Markin

Easter events this weekend

The unofficial kick-off to the Okanagan’s annual season of signature events and stepping out for a day of savouring local sips is here—the spring...

17.04.2025 3

Castanet

Allison Markin

Demise of department stores

If you are of a certain age, the following may evoke feelings of nostalgia. If your shopping experiences have mostly ranged from big box to bargain...

03.04.2025 10

Castanet

Allison Markin

Wine industry champions

Earlier this month, Wine Growers British Columbia recognized a few individuals and organizations at its annual B.C. Wine Industry Insight Conference,...

20.03.2025 3

Castanet

Allison Markin