As the days grow longer and the Okanagan Valley bursts into bloom, there’s no better time to explore Kelowna’s wine scene. Spring brings fresh releases, sun-soaked patios, and vineyard views that stretch for miles. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just beginning to explore Okanagan wines, Kelowna’s diverse wine communities offer something for every palate.
Lakeshore & Downtown: Urban Elegance Meets Lakefront Views
Kelowna’s Lakeshore and Downtown wine scene blends sophistication with stunning scenery, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Sandhill Wines, located in the heart of downtown, is known for its small-lot, single-vineyard wines crafted with care. The sleek, industrial-style tasting room provides an intimate setting to explore their award-winning wines. Further south, Tantalus Vineyards is one of the region’s most renowned wineries, producing some of the finest Rieslings in Canada. The winery’s commitment to sustainability, combined with its breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake, creates a truly memorable experience. Nearby, Summerhill Pyramid Winery stands out for its organic and biodynamic winemaking practices. The winery is famous for its sparkling wines and its iconic pyramid cellar, which is said to enhance the aging process of the wines.
Southeast Kelowna: Rustic Charm and Boutique Wineries
Nestled among rolling farmland and orchards, Southeast Kelowna is home to boutique wineries that offer a laid-back and intimate tasting experience. Meadow Vista Honey Wines provides a unique twist on traditional wine, crafting delicious meads infused with locally sourced honey, herbs, and fruits. Just a short drive away, Priest Creek Family Estate Winery is one of the newer additions to the region but has quickly gained recognition for its bold reds and welcoming atmosphere. Another standout is SpearHead Winery, known for its award-winning Pinot Noirs and innovative winemaking. With a stunning outdoor patio overlooking the vineyards, it’s a perfect spot to sip and savour. The View Winery offers a mix of aromatic whites and robust reds, all crafted in a historic apple packinghouse that adds to its rustic charm. The Vibrant Vine brings a unique tasting experience to the region, featuring lively artwork, 3D glasses, and wines that truly live up to their name—fresh, flavourful, and fun.
Southeast Kelowna: Rustic Charm and Boutique Wineries
Nestled among rolling farmland and orchards, Southeast Kelowna is home to boutique wineries that offer a laid-back and intimate tasting experience. Meadow Vista Honey Wines provides a unique twist on traditional wine, crafting delicious meads infused with locally sourced honey, herbs, and fruits. Just a short drive away, Priest Creek Family Estate Winery is one of the newer additions to the region but has quickly gained recognition for its bold reds and welcoming atmosphere. Another standout is SpearHead Winery, known for its award-winning Pinot Noirs and innovative winemaking. With a stunning outdoor patio overlooking the vineyards, it’s a perfect spot to sip and savour. The View Winery offers a mix of aromatic whites and robust reds, all crafted in a historic apple packinghouse that adds to its rustic charm. The Vibrant Vine brings a unique tasting experience to the region, featuring lively artwork, 3D glasses, and wines that truly live up to their name—fresh, flavourful, and fun.
West Kelowna: Iconic Estates and Hillside Vineyards
West Kelowna is home to some of the region’s most renowned wineries, offering sweeping lake views and exceptional wines. Grizzli Winery specializes in icewine and bold reds, with a grand tasting room that regularly hosts live music and events. A short drive away, Mission Hill Family Estate Winery is an architectural masterpiece, known for its stunning winery grounds, world-class wines, and an unforgettable patio restaurant overlooking the valley. Another local favourite, Volcanic Hills Estate Winery, gets its name from the region’s volcanic soils, which contribute to the winery’s fruit-forward and approachable wines. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, it’s an ideal spot to unwind with a glass in hand. Rounding out the list is Quails’ Gate Winery, a family-owned estate with a deep-rooted history in the Okanagan wine industry. Known for its outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Quails’ Gate also boasts an acclaimed restaurant, Old Vines, where guests can enjoy farm-to-table dining with panoramic vineyard views.
Lake Country: Serene Sips Along the Scenic Route
Just north of Kelowna, Lake Country is known for its stunning lakefront vineyards and cool-climate varietals. This picturesque wine region is home to some of the most celebrated wineries in the Okanagan. Ancient Hill Winery, a hidden gem in Ellison, specializes in European-style wines crafted exclusively from estate-grown grapes, creating a tasting experience that is both authentic and unique. 50th Parallel Estate Winery is a must-visit, producing elegant Pinot Noir and aromatic white wines in a sleek, modern setting with breathtaking lake views.
Arrowleaf Cellars offers a welcoming atmosphere with handcrafted wines and a scenic picnic area overlooking Okanagan Lake. Ex Nihilo Vineyards is known for its bold reds and art-inspired tasting room, making it a perfect stop for those looking to pair exceptional wine with creativity. Gray Monk Estate Winery, is renowned for its crisp whites, including its signature Pinot Gris. With a stunning restaurant and a legacy of award-winning wines, it remains a favourite among visitors and locals alike.
Sip, Savour, and Soak in the Scenery
With the vines awakening from their winter slumber and wineries buzzing with excitement for the season ahead, spring is the perfect time to explore Kelowna’s Wine Communities. Whether you’re enjoying a lakeside tasting, discovering a new favourite at a boutique winery, or taking in the views from a vineyard patio, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Plan your spring wine-tasting adventure and explore more of what Kelowna has to offer.
Feature image| Quails Gate. Photo Credit: Ken Hagen
