Living in BC's Okanagan has its perks. Surrounded by incredible landscapes, vineyards and lakes, there are endless opportunites for day trips and weekend getaways. Our four seasons are all unique and offer an active lifestyle for outdoor enthusiasts and wine connoiseurs.
There are over 180 wineries in the the Okanagan region of BC and there are many different reasons to visit them. Many visit for the wine but they are also destinations of their own for their architecture or experiences offered. Here we share our top picks in BC's wine country.
Lake Country/North Okanagan Wineries:
Ex Nihilo Vineyards
This 8000 sqft mediterranean BC winery is locateed in Lake Country with beautiful views of Okanagan Lake. The wine tastings on their deck overlooking the lake is a relaxing and enjoyable experience and their reds are a favourite.
50th Parallel Estate Winery
This stunning 61 acre property boasts a
beautiful open tasting room located next
to Block One Restaurant. It is quite an
impressive operation when you pull into
the winery, and you will find many guests
lingering on the lawns next to the vineyard.
Kelowna-Central Okanagan Wineries:
Cedar Creek Estate Winery
Cedar Creek has been on our favourite list since the early 2000's. We initially came for their Pinot Noir and they now have Home Block Restaurant to add to your visit. It is a great way to enjoy their wines and their spectacular view.
Martin's Lane Winery
The architecture of Martin's Lane is raw, rugged and striking and there are two wines produced at this vineyard. Pinot Noir and Riesling are the focus and you must phone ahead for tasting reservations. Wine tastings are animmersive experience and one you will not forget.
West Kelowna-Mt Boucherie Wineries:
Quails Gate Winery
Quails Gate is a must-see winery in this region. Their wines are fantastic and we highly recommend having lunch at Old Vines Restaurant next to their tasting room which overlooks the vineyards and the lake. Three generations have built this winery into the successful business it is today.
Mission Hill Family Estate
Mission Hill has been a destination winery in BC for over two decades and has elevated the awareness of BC's wine country. The architecture is stunning and the views are beautiful. This is a must-stop for any wine lover.
Summerland/Peachland Wineries:
Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards
Fitzpatrick makes the perfect stop to taste sparkling wines and learn about the history of the vineyards. There is a Sparkling Bar located next to the restaurant overlooking the lake where you can leisurely sip your beverage while enjoying the
views that BC is known for.
Penticton/Naramata Wineries:
DaSilva Vineyards
The family run winery makes some fantastic wines where you can enjoy on the terrace of The Kitchen where incredible ethnic foods are served. Ask about the history of their Misconduct wines, it is quite the story.
Okanagan Falls Wineries:
Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars
The drive to this beautiful vineyard is one of the most relaxing drives in BC's wine country. This winery produces incredible wines and sparkling wines and is highly recommended to spend a few hours at this spectacular vineyard.
Oliver/Golden Mile Wineries:
Covert Farms Family Estate
The best winery in BC to visit with your family. The kids have their own "wine juice" tasting and are whisked away to visit the resident animals on the farm while parents can relax and enjoy the alone time while they do a wine tasting.
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards
This winery offers many reasons to visit. Go for a wine tasting, enjoy an incredible meal at Miradoro Restaurant or go for a hike on the many trails that lead out from the vineyards.
Black Sage/Osoyoos Wineries:
Phantom Creek Estates
This $100 million winery opened in the spring of 2020 and did not disappoint. The architecture is outstanding and the wines are incredible. This winery has many exciting things in store for it.
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
This winery has been a staple in the Black Sage region for many decades and offers many reasons to visit. The wines produced are outstanding, the Sonora Room Restaurant offers delectable cuisine and their guest house in one of the best in BC's wine country.
In conclusion, residents living in BC's wine country have some incredible wineries at their doorstep. The southern Okanagan is a beautiful place to live not only for the landscape and lakes, but also for the vineyards.
Andrew Karpiak is a realtor in the Thompson/Okanagan has been the main realtor for Tobiano since its inception in 2006. He can
answer all real-estate related questions and provide valuable Tobiano lifestyle information as a former resident in the Summers Landing Development. He was also a partner in a large construction company that built a number of single family homes within the Tobiano development so he has an intimate understanding of what it takes to build your dream home at Tobiano.
Written by Karpiak Caravan
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