Kelowna Wineries

Kelowna is the heart of British Columbia's wine industry, a region of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and acres of vineyards. The local wine scene is organized into five distinct trails, each offering a unique personality and terroir. You can explore the grand estates of the Westside Wine Trail, the historic vineyards of the Lakeshore Wine Route, the rustic charm of East Kelowna, the panoramic views of Lake Country's Scenic Sip, or the urban tasting rooms of Downtown Kelowna.

Over 60 grape varietals are grown here, but the region excels at producing world-class Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. You will also find excellent Merlot, Gewürztraminer, and a growing number of impressive Syrah and Cabernet Franc wines. The diverse microclimates, from the sun-drenched slopes of West Kelowna to the cooler northern vineyards in Lake Country, allow this wide range of grapes to flourish, creating a remarkable spectrum of wine styles.

The experience is about more than just wine. Many wineries are architectural marvels with breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake. Several are home to Canada's best restaurants, offering menus built around local, seasonal ingredients. Whether you're looking for a casual afternoon tasting, a guided tour, or a fine dining experience, Kelowna's wine country delivers a memorable visit just a short drive from the city centre.

The Westside Wine Trail is Kelowna's most popular route, boasting a high concentration of wineries with spectacular views across Okanagan Lake. This is where you will find some of the region's most iconic and established names, including the stunning Mission Hill Family Estate Winery and the celebrated Quails' Gate Winery. The area, particularly the Boucherie Bench, is known for its sun-soaked vineyards that produce powerful, fruit-forward wines.

Beyond the major estates, the trail is packed with diverse experiences. You can discover the quirky and rebellious spirit at The Hatch or Crown & Thieves, or visit family-run spots like Little Straw Vineyards Family Estate Winery and Ciao Bella Winery. Many wineries here are leaders in sustainable practices, with Kalala Organic Estate Winery and Off The Grid Organic Winery offering excellent certified organic wines. It is easy to spend a full day exploring this dense and rewarding area.

The Westside trail also includes wineries in nearby Peachland, like Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards at Greata Ranch and Hainle Vineyards Estate Winery Ltd. This trail offers a complete wine country experience, from architectural grandeur and fine dining at Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery to casual picnics with stunning backdrops at Frind Estate Winery, North America's first beachfront winery.

Local tips

• This is the most popular trail; book tastings and restaurant reservations well in advance, especially in summer.
• Allow at least a full day to explore properly, as there are many wineries clustered together.
• The views from the patios along Boucherie Road are some of the best in the valley.

The Lakeshore Wine Route follows the gentle slopes along the eastern side of Okanagan Lake, just a short drive from downtown. This historic area is home to some of the valley's oldest vineyards and is known for its elegant, terroir-driven wines. Wineries here, like Tantalus Vineyards and CedarCreek Estate Winery, focus on premium Riesling and Pinot Noir. The route offers a more serene experience, with stunning lake vistas and a focus on high-quality, sustainable winemaking.

A highlight of the Lakeshore route is Summerhill Pyramid Winery, Canada's most visited winery, famous for its organic and biodynamic wines and its unique pyramid cellar. Many wineries on this trail, including CedarCreek, feature acclaimed restaurants that are destinations in their own right. The combination of established vineyards, beautiful scenery, and exceptional food and wine makes this a must-visit trail.

The East Kelowna Wine Trail offers a more rustic, farm-gate experience through rolling hills and orchards. Here you will find charming boutique wineries like Ancient Hill Winery, The View Winery & Vineyard, and Priest Creek Family Estate Winery. This trail feels like a hidden secret, with intimate tasting rooms and a slower pace. It is perfect for those looking to discover smaller, family-run operations and hidden gems just minutes from the city.

Local tips

• Many wineries on the Lakeshore route are close together, making for an easy-to-plan afternoon.
• East Kelowna's wineries are more spread out; plan your route with a map.
• Consider a bike tour through East Kelowna to enjoy the quiet country roads and orchards.

Just north of Kelowna, the Scenic Sip wine trail in Lake Country lives up to its name with panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding valley. This region is known for its cool-climate wines, particularly aromatic whites and elegant Pinot Noir. The wineries here often feature modern architecture and a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere, making the scenic drive from Kelowna well worth the trip.

Landmark wineries on this trail include Gray Monk Estate Winery, one of the region's pioneers and the first to plant Pinot Gris in Canada. 50th Parallel Estate Winery is another must-visit, celebrated for its stunning design, Pinot Noir, and its fantastic Block One Restaurant. The trail offers a wonderful variety, from the family-owned charm of Arrowleaf Cellars to the creative vibe at Ex Nihilo Vineyards.

The wineries are spread out amongst rolling hills and orchards, creating a peaceful and picturesque touring experience. Wineries like Peak Cellars, with its garden-to-table bistro, and the friendly, boutique-style Intrigue Wines, showcase the quality and diversity of the area. Plan for at least a half-day to properly explore this beautiful and rewarding trail.

Local tips

• The drive itself is part of the experience, so don't rush between stops.
• Check winery hours, as some smaller spots have seasonal schedules.
• Book a table at a winery restaurant like Block One or The Lookout Restaurant for an unforgettable lunch with a view.

Kelowna's winery dining scene is exceptional. Restaurants like Old Vines at Quails' Gate Winery, Home Block at CedarCreek Estate Winery, and The Terrace at Mission Hill Family Estate are consistently ranked among Canada's best. These restaurants offer sophisticated, farm-to-table menus designed to pair perfectly with their estate wines, all served on patios with breathtaking vineyard and lake views. Other notable spots include Annie's Beach Café at Frind Estate Winery and the Garden Bistro at Peak Cellars.

Harvest season in September and October is a magical time to visit. The vineyards are golden, the air is crisp, and the valley is buzzing with the energy of the grape harvest. This is when the Fall Okanagan Wine Festival takes place, a multi-day celebration featuring hundreds of events across the valley, from winemaker's dinners and grape stomps to tasting events. The 2026 festival is scheduled from late September to early October.

You don't even have to leave the city core to taste great wine. The Downtown and Urban trail is centred around Sandhill Wines, located in the heart of Kelowna. Housed in the city's original 1930s-era winery, Sandhill offers an urban tasting experience focused on its award-winning single-vineyard wines. Its central location makes it a perfect stop while exploring the city's shops, waterfront, and cultural district.

Local tips

• Reservations for top winery restaurants are essential and should be made weeks, or even months, in advance.
• Book accommodations and event tickets early if visiting during the Fall Wine Festival.
• Check the Sandhill Wines website for special events like happy hours with live music and food trucks.

Planning ahead is key for a great wine-tasting day. Most wineries now require reservations for tastings, which you can typically book online. Tasting fees vary, but generally range from $10 to $20 per person for a standard flight. This fee is often waived if you purchase a bottle of wine or join the winery's club. Experiences can range from a simple tasting at the bar to seated, educational flights with food pairings.

Never drink and drive. The winding roads and number of wineries make it essential to have a safe transportation plan. Numerous local companies offer guided wine tours via shuttle bus or private vehicle. These tours often include tasting fees and a planned itinerary, taking the stress out of your day. Popular operators include Vivid Tours, Beach Bum Tours, and Sip Happens Wine Tours.

If you prefer to set your own pace with your own vehicle, designated driver services are an excellent option. Companies like Home Safe or Your Driver will send a professional to drive you and your friends home safely in your own car at the end of the day. This provides the flexibility of a self-guided tour with the safety and peace of mind of a planned excursion.

Local tips

• Always check a winery's website or call ahead for the most current tasting fees and reservation policies.
• For a self-guided tour, focus on one wine trail per day to minimize driving and maximize tasting time.
• Ask your tour guide for recommendations; they are locals with extensive knowledge of the wineries.
• Stay hydrated. Most tours provide bottled water, and it's a good idea to bring your own.