The meaning of Apricus
Apricus Cellars was borne out of our love for the climate, land, soil, and sun of the South Okanagan and the fruit grown in those elements. Apricus (äˈpriːkʊs̠) is a medieval Latin word that means both ’basking in sunshine’ and ‘delectable’. No word better describes our wine and the environment in which we produce it. Of utmost importance at Apricus Cellars is showcasing the outstanding quality of the fruit grown for us just minutes up the road. One of our owners often says, “you can’t make chicken salad out of chicken droppings. Likewise, you can’t make the best wine without the best grapes”. From our light and refreshing Pinot Gris to our bold Cabernet Sauvignon dominant Meritage blend, you’re sure to taste the quality of our grapes in each and every bottle.
Our Owners
Willy
Willy Sabo is a hard-working entrepreneur with a background in salvage and surplus steel sales. Although partnering in a winery wasn’t part of any calculated business plan, Willy has always kept an eye out for good people with whom he could work. Meeting partner Sam was serendipitous. From the first of many shared bottles of wine, they were fast friends, sharing a keen interest in viticulture and, of course, the fruit of the labour now in Apricus Cellars’ bottles! Like many from the Fraser Valley, for years Willy and his family would spend the summer in Osoyoos, staying at Nk’Mip Resort where a lot was learned and an appreciation for indigenous culture was born. Over the last couple years, Willy and his wife, Kelly, have made the South Okanagan their year-round home away from home. Willy brings with him a strong sales background, a love of all things wine, and loads of entertainment. More often than not, he tells customers at the winery that he’s the caretaker! Truly, he believes that being a part of Apricus Cellars in the DWV is the perfect semi-retirement passion project.
Sam
Sam Baptiste grew up in the Okanagan and is a proud member of the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB). As a high school student in 1968, Sam helped plant the original vines in Nk’Mip Vineyards. After high school, Sam spent several years working and serving his community. During this time, he pursued a diverse education in horticulture, enology, and viticulture, studying at UVic, UC Davis and colleges in San Diego and Wenatchee Valley. Beyond his formal education, Sam brings to the table a wealth of knowledge about this land, these grapes, and great wine. Outside the vineyard and the wine, his passions include golf, cars, and music. Since 1990, Sam has been the general manager at Nk’Mip Vineyards. Apricus Cellars is proud to purchase our grapes from Sam and his team.
Our Winemaker
Kyle Lyons
Growing up in the Okanagan, Kyle’s winemaking journey began in 2004. Starting at Sumac Ridge, he quickly discovered a passion that he knew would transform into a career. Over six years at Sumac Ridge, Kyle built a foundation in cellar operations before expanding his expertise. Kyle has worked as a cellar hand, winemaker, and consultant at several highly reputable wineries across British Columbia including Liquidity, Stoneboat, and Valley Commons. His pursuit of knowledge also took him to Australia, where he gained valuable experience at one of their highly regarded wineries. After meeting with Sam and Willy, Kyle found a natural alignment of visions, leading him to join Apricus. The 2025 vintage will mark his first as our winemaker, and he eagerly anticipates sharing the wines he creates.
