Upamanyu Biswas
Helmed by David Weaver, Hallmark’s ‘Raise a Glass to Love’ tells the story of Jenna Savern, an aspiring Sommelier, who returns to her grandmother’s winery to make her dream of running her own winery come true. As Jenna focuses on passing a tough test to prove her worth as a Master Sommelier, she befriends dashing winemaker Marcelo Castillo. Soon, a cozy romance ensues in the sunny fields of an idyllic vineyard as Jenna navigates her feelings for Marcelo’s Argentinian charm alongside her own ambitions. The romantic comedy film utilizes its rural countryside environment to great effect, setting the tone for a whirlwind of emotions and warmth to course through the drama unfolding between the two central characters while also leaving enough space to cherish the light-hearted moments.
Where Was Raise a Glass to Love Filmed?
Although set in California, ‘Raise a Glass to Love’ was filmed in the British Columbia province, specifically in the Okanagan region. Shooting took place in the city of Kelowna, which is situated within the Okanagan Valley. Principal photography for the project began on July 5, 2021, and was concluded by July 23. The region is known for its diversity and local vineyards, which were particularly useful during production. As large chunks of the story take place at the farm, the open areas of Kelowna and its close connection to nature help breed a sense of connection and attachment to the region while also providing an intriguing atmosphere for the emotional scenes. Moreover, it offers some breathtaking views while exploring Jenna and Marcelo’s journey.
Kelowna, British Columbia
Filming for ‘Raise a Glass to Love’ primarily took place in and around Kelowna, British Columbia. The city is located in the southern parts of British Columbia and is surrounded by countryside attractions ranging from pine forests to beautiful orchards and vineyards. Scenes for the movie’s main setting, the Savern Vineyard, were recorded at the magical Mirabel Vineyards at 3740 Hart Road. It is a family-owned business that produces sustainable, top-of-the-line wine. Some scenes were also lensed at the Rhapsody Plaza, a city park in downtown Kelowna. It notably hosts a 20-foot-high Rhapsody Dolphins Statue that graces the waterfront region, overlooking the Okanagan Lake. The real-life locales add a sense of grounding to the small-town drama about winemaking.
Kelowna is primarily known for its thriving wine industry, which adds a scenic charm to the region’s outskirts. It is littered with numerous wineries with their own unique practices and specialties. Notably, the area is also a tourist spot, primarily due to its wine-tasting and touring services and access to adventure sports like skiing. In the past, Kelowna has hosted production on films and shows like ‘ A Snapshot of Forever,’ ‘The Bear Lake Murders,’ ‘A Winter Princess,’ ‘Checkin’ It Twice,’ and ‘Our Holiday Story.’
Raise a Glass to Love Cast
‘Raise a Glass to Love’ is led by the compelling performances of Laura Osnes and Juan Pablo Di Pace, alongside a host of other supporting roles, which includes a cameo appearance by real-life Master Sommelier and wine consultant Jennifer Huether. Outside his acting parts, Pace has also displayed his knack for the director’s seat in the past, helming the romance drama ‘Duino’ and the 2020 TV series ‘Minutiae.’ He is also the director of numerous short films and music videos.
Laura Osnes as Jenna Savern
Hallmark veteran Laura Osnes stars as aspiring Master Sommelier Jenna Savern. She is best known for playing Sandy in ‘Grease,’ Nellie Forbush in ‘South Pacific,’ Hope Harcourt in ‘Anything Goes,’ and Bonnie Parker in ‘Bonnie and Clyde,’ which garnered her a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. She also plays Anna Jordan in Hallmark’s ‘One Royal Holiday.’ Her other credits include ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,’ ‘Dynasty,’ ‘Elementary,’ and ‘City of Dreams.’
Juan Pablo Di Pace as Marcelo Castillo
Juan Pablo Di Pace is an Argentine-born actor with some stellar performances in his catalog. He is most noted for appearing as Petros in ‘Mamma Mia!,’ Jesus in ‘A.D. The Bible Continues,’ Nicolás Treviño in ‘Dallas,’ Fernando in ‘Fuller House,’ and Manuel in ‘Survival Island.’ He can also be seen in ‘Rosewood,’ ‘Dashing in December,’ ‘Resurrection,’ and ‘Angie Tribeca.’
Other notable cast members include Matthew James Dowden as Aidan Parker, Eric Keenleyside as Mike Savern, Lini Evans as Lynn Savern, Amanda Wong as Allison, Beverley Elliott as Peggy, Arpad Balogh as Derek, Jennifer Lyn Huether as herself, Michael Patrick Denis as Edwin. The Hallmark movie also features Iris Quinn as Elenor Savern, Hannah Brown as Little Jenna, David Adams as Head Judge, and Lisa MacDonald as Lily.
Read More: My Argentine Heart: Filming Locations and Cast Details
