Your complete guide to British Columbia Wineries Plus: Meaderies, Cideries and Distilleries BC Wine Regions :: Year in Review :: Tasting Notes Where to Eat :: Where to Stay :: Where to Play Winery Maps: Okanagan, Similkameen, Shuswap, Thompson, Lillooet, Fraser Valley & Greater Vancouver, Vancouver & Gulf Islands, Kootenays SPRING 2022 SPRING 2023
ALL CANADIAN WINE CHAMPIONSHIPS
DOUBLE GOLD
Special Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 GOLD
Siren’s Call Harmonious 2017
Siren’s Call Harmonious 2015
BRONZE
Carter Wine Company Estate Series, Ehrenfelser / Riesling 2018
BC WINE STUDIO
2434 Oliver Ranch rd. Okanagan Falls www.bcwinestudio.ca
VANCOUVER’S
CANADA’S
2021 ALBERTA BEVERAGE AWARD JUDGE’S SELECTION WT. BLEND; 2021 ALL CANADIAN WINE CHAMP. DOUBLE GOLD BEST OF CATEGORY Judge’s Selection TOP SIX White Blend – International or Domestic!
All Canadian Wine Championship Award Won by our can, against bottled whites. Dry, smooth, fruity, unoaked.
CASTORO DE ORO ESTATE WINERY 4004 Highway 97, Oliver www.castorodeoro.com
FLAUNT SPARKLING PLUM
BEST OF CANADA- DOUBLE GOLD FRUIT WINE OF THE YEAR ALL CANADIAN WINE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Juicy, lovely bright fruit notes of ripe plum, strawberry, cranberry and tropical fruit! Steady mousse with a creamy texture, good fresh acidity and lingering finish! Visit our riverside wine tasting boutique and discover all of our award winning wines!
FORBIDDEN FRUIT WINERY 620 Sumac Rd., Cawston, (250) 499-2649 www.forbiddenfruitwine.com
2019 SMALL LOT SERIES CHARDONNAY
PLATINUM AWARD 2021 NATIONAL WINE AWARDS OF CANADA
Lunessence Winery & Vineyard 5716 Gartrell Road, Summerland 778.516.3131
Lunessencewinery.com
FB: @lunessencewine Instagram: @lunessencewine
AWARD WINNERS EXPERIENCE TOURS
MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE RESERVE PINOT NOIR 2019 9OPTS BY INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRITS COMPETITION Terrific and tantalizing, interlaced with damson, morello cherry and bright bramble fruit. Not an oaky blockbuster. Playing it subtle and sophisticated.
2 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
PHOTOS: Wines of British Columbia; Mission Hill Family Estate; Valhalla Helicopters
BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2019 Globe & Mail SOUTH OKANAGAN’S BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT 2021 Penticton Western News
BEST NEW RESTAURANT 2021, Honourable Mention, Air Canada’s En Route Magazine BC & CANADA’S OUTSTANDING YOUNG FARMER OF THE YEAR 2011 to Kevin and Annamarie.
Organic Acres & Row Fourteen www.klippersorganics.com
HELICOPTERS
Stevens Road, West Kelowna
MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE 1730 Mission Hill Rd, West Kelowna www.missionhillwinery.com (250) 769-1486
Klippers
VALHALLA
1100
Phone:
www.valhallahelicopters.com This is a one-of-a-kind experience combining a scenic helicopter tour around the Okanagan with stops at participating wineries to enjoy the beverage that has made the valley so well-known. Touring the Okanagan wineries is so much more fun when you arrive in style! BC WINE TOUR HUB WWW.WINETOURHUB.COM
PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER OR BETTER YET, HIRE A TOUR OPERATOR AND ENJOY THE RIDE!
Planning your visit to BC Wine Country? Whether it’s your first, second, third... visit, or if you’re local and want to experience what’s in your own backyard, check us out - there is always something new to discover. Get online access to wineries; regional travel information; winery route maps; where to eat, stay, play and more.
CONTENTS
4.
Welcome to BC Wine Country
The Official British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook is your guide to the wonderful and diverse BC Wine Country.
Inside you’ll find tips on touring and tasting, maps to help you plan your itineraries and space for you to jot down your notes on wines and memories of your visit. Our comprehensive list of BC wineries makes this guide an invaluable tool for your wine tour experience. Keep this guide handy and enjoy your visit!
PUBLISHER / ART
7. Year in Review 9-15. South Okanagan: Oliver & Osoyoos 16-17. South Okanagan: Okanagan Falls & Kaleden 18-21. Similkameen Valley: Cawston & Keremeos 22-31. South Okanagan: Penticton & Naramata 32-34. South Okanagan: Peachland & Summerland 35-41. Central Okanagan: West Kelowna, Kelowna & Lake Country
42. Golf BC Wine Regions 43-45. North Okanagan: Vernon, Armstrong, Enderby & Grindrod 46-49. Shuswap: Salmon Arm, Tappen & Celista 50-53. Thompson Valley: Kamloops
54. Lillooet 55-57. Fraser Valley & Greater Vancouver 58-61. Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands
62. Kootenays
DIRECTOR
Tammy Tomiye, eXpose design studio EDITOR Julianna Hayes
ADVERTISING Terry Varga
COVER PHOTO CREDITS
Tammy Tomiye; Destination BC/Boomer Jerritt; Destination BC/Gabriel Cabrera; Wines of Briish Columbia; Adobe Stock
PAGES 3 PHOTO CREDIT
Destination BC/Kari Medig
The British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook is published annually by eXpose design studio. To obtain copies of this publication for distribution, please contact us at (778) 484-6888 or tammy@winetourhub.com
To order your personal copy visit www.winetourhub.com Follow us on Twitter @BCwinetour on Instagram @bcwinetour No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the Publisher
Printed in Canada
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 3
WELCOME TO BC WINE COUNTRY
DISTANCE & DRIVE TIMES
DISTANCE CHART DISTANCE DRIVE TIME
Lillooet to Kamloops 171km 2h 5min
Kamloops to Salmon Arm 109km 1h 13min
Kamloops to Vernon 116km 1h 23min
Salmon Arm to Vernon 58.7km 46min
Vernon to Lake Country 28.5km 22min
Lake Country to Kelowna 26.5km 26min
Kelowna to West Kelowna 7.8km 9min
West Kelowna to Peachland 22km 21min
Peachland to Summerland 20.8km 13min
Summerland to Penticton 16.6km 13min
Penticton to Okanagan Falls 20.8km 19min
Okanagan Falls to Keremeos 39.1km 29min
Okanagan Falls to Oliver 21.1km 16min
Oliver to Osoyoos 20.8km 17min
Osoyoos to Cawston 41km 27min
Cawston to Keremeos 7.2km 8min
Keremeos to Kamloops 240km 2h 46min
Vancouver to Kelowna 390km 4hr 25min
Vancouver to Osoyoos 397km 4hr 45min
Vancouver to Victoria (ferry) 115km 3hr 11min
Vancouver to Lillooet 252km 3hr 46min
An article in a November 2021 issue of a major U.S. newspaper encourages wine enthusiasts to bypass the Napa Valley and visit BC wine country instead.
The Washington Post describes Canada’s western wine region as laid-back, diverse, easy to navigate and more economical.
Unlike Napa, few of the wineries export their wines, as 90 per cent of British Columbia wine is sold within the province. So if you want to drink them, “you’ll probably have to go there,” the article says. “And the experience and personal touch make it worth the trip.”
As a relatively younger wine destination, BC still offers a “wallet-friendly experience,” the article adds.
“Tasting fees are typically less than $10 (compared with $58 in Napa, both in U.S. dollars) and are often, though not always waived with a purchase of a bottle.”
The article goes on to say the terrain is surprisingly diverse and that it’s easy to hit up multiple wineries in a day by following a wine trail. This guide aims to help enthusiasts do just that.
The words penned in the Washington Post are sure to be encouraging to BC producers who are ramping up for the full return of tourists after the start of the pandemic. If there’s anything the last two years have taught them it’s resiliency. But that’s something they’ve already had in spades.
Vintners have been making wines in British Columbia for well over a century, but the industry only really got established three decades ago, so yes, it’s fairly young.
In 1990, pioneering vintners and grape growers collaborated to forge the Vintners’ Quality Alliance (VQA) and the British Columbia Wine Institute (BCWI). The VQA standard was created to guarantee consumers were drinking wine made from 100 per cent BC grapes. Prior to that, consumers had no real way of verifying the authenticity of what was in their glass. It went a long way toward establishing truth in labeling and building consumer confidence in provincially-made wines.
VQA was not without its controversy and there was resistance by some producers, but there is little doubt the movement helped propel the industry forward.
At the time that VQA was introduced, there were only 19 grape wineries in the province. Today, there are around 300, as well as dozens of others making wine using alternative fruits and even honey. You can’t argue with those numbers.
There’s a lot to love about BC wines today. One of the of the driving forces behind the industry’s continued growth is the designation of more “geographical indications (GIs)” and sub-GIs, which recognize the unique terroir of specific wine growing areas in BC.
4 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Currently, there are nine GIs (Fraser Valley, Gulf Islands, Kootenays, Lillooet, Okanagan Valley, Shuswap, Similkameen Valley, Thompson Valley and Vancouver Island). There are five sub-GIs within the Okanagan Valley (Golden Miles Slopes, Golden Mile Bench, Okanagan Falls, Naramata Bench and Skaha Bench), and one sub-GI of Vancouver Island (Cowichan Valley).
These are recognized as appellation areas that help people identify where the wines are from, and provide assurance as to their origin. GIs would be comparable to Italy’s DOCG or France’s AOC appellation programs. These encourage quality and promote agri-tourism.
Under BC’s Wines of Marked Quality Regulation, any wine bearing the VQA symbol must contain grapes that were 100 per cent grown within the province. For wines bearing a GI designation, 95 per cent of the grapes must originate from within that area, while five per cent can come from elsewhere in the province.
BC WINE TRENDS
Many vintners have taken things a step further by producing single vineyard offerings or small lots that have stepped up overall quality and give BC wine enthusiasts a deeper “sense of place.” It is not unusual for individual vineyards to have unique soils and topography even within the same sub-GI.
In January 2022, Forbes magazine published an article describing this very phenomenon in the Okanagan Valley. It points to the region’s diverse geology as attributing to great complexity in its wines. Forbes describes the landscape as having been “shaped by complex processes of mountain building, volcanic eruptions, glaciation and erosion.”
“The result is a series of ancient soils composed of glacial till and eroded bedrock that are very heterogenous. It’s not uncommon for a small 10-acre vineyard to exhibit a half dozen or more different soil types.”
Check out the regional maps and articles within this guide for information on the topography, soil, climate and grapes grown.
Sustainable Farming - There’s a growing movement among vintners to adopt more natural farming practises. Examples of this are the use of beneficial insects to combat grubs and catepillars or mulching, composting and growing vegetation beneath the vines to provide habitat for natural predators instead of using insecticides.
Orange wines - This is a type of white wine made naturally by leaving the grape skins and seeds in contact with the juice over an extended period resulting in an orange tinge. It is often left unfiltered so it appears hazy or cloudy. The wines tend to have a bit of a sour, bready and nutty character that can be an acquired taste.
Wine in cans - BC wine producers are embracing this eco-friendly packaging to provide enthusiasts with portable, quick-to-chill and cheerful wines for on-the-go consumption. Theses 250 ml cans are typically sold individually.
Gravity Flow Winemaking - The use of gravity to move wine through the various phases of production is becoming increasingly popular in BC’s cellars. Mechanical pumps use force to move wines between the crush pad and tanks and barrels, which can increase the risk of them becoming overly tannic or oxidated. Gravity flow is said to be more gentle.
Concrete Eggs - Amphora aging or the use of clay vessels (often found in the shape of large eggs) is becoming increasing popular among BC producers. Stainless steel tanks provide a neutral, oxygen-free enviroment, while oak barrels allow for some oxygen to permeate the wine while imparting additional aromas and flavours. Clay aging is the middle-ground, as the vessels are porous so the wine gets a rich texture from the oxygen while providing no additional flavours.
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 5
| 250
British Columbia’s Original VQA Wine Store Over 900 BC Wines / Complimentary Tastings Wine Shipping Service Books, Gifts, Wine Accessories www.pentictonwineinfo.com #101-553 Vees Drive, Penticton 250-490-2006 / Open 7 days per week
sandybeachresort.com
496 5765
PHOTOS:
WHERE TO STAY
BEST WESTERN PLUS
KAMLOOPS HOTEL
660 Columbia Street West, Kamloops
Phone: (250) 374-7878
Toll Free: 1-877-302-7878 www.bestwesternkamloops.com
Kamloops Award Winning Eco-Friendly Hotel! Centrally located. Indoor saltwater pool and hot tub, fitness center, free breakfast, and Fibre Wi-Fi network.
CASA DEL MILA ORO RESORT
5401 Lakeshore Drive, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 495-2373 www.casadelmilaororesort.com orparentals@gmail.com
Luxury lakefront resort featuring 2 bedroom condos and 3 bedroom townhouses with patios or balconies and private bbqs. Pool, hot tub, private beach, boat moorage, conference room and free WIFI.
HOLIDAY PARK RV & CONDO RESORT
415 Commonwealth Road, Kelowna BC
Phone: (250) 766-4255 holiday@sweetlife.com www.sweetlife.com
Enjoy a relaxing holiday or weekend getaway in a luxury condo or full-service RV site. Seasonal specials and numerous amenities in this destination resort, just minutes from Kelowna International Airport!
WHERE TO STAY DIRECTORY
BEACHSIDE MOTEL
KLIPPERS GUEST SUITES
2229 Ferko Road, Cawston
Phone: (604) 316-3863 www.klippersorganics.com
Nestled in the heart of the Similkameen Valley’s wine region, Klippers Organic Acres offers spacious & luxurious accommodations for guests to enjoy a down-to-earth stay.
• Penticton • Page 7, 30
BEST WESTERN PLUS KAMLOOPS HOTEL • Kamloops • Page 6, 51
CASA DEL MILA ORO RESORT • Osoyoos • Page 6, 14
THE GUEST HOUSE AT BURROWING OWL ESTATE WINERY • Oliver • Page 14, 15
HOLIDAY PARK RV & CONDO RESORT • Kelowna • Page 6, 41
HOSTELLING INTERNATIONAL • Penticton • Page 30
KLIPPERS GUEST SUITES • Cawston • Page 6, 18, 19, 21
SANDY BEACH LODGE & RESORT • Naramata • Page 5, 30
SOMA CRAFT CIDERY • Kelowna • Page 41
SPIRIT RIDGE RESORT • Osoyoos • Page 8, 14
SUNNY BEACH MOTEL • Penticton • Page 7, 30
WATERFRONT INN • Penticton • Page 7, 30
WESBERT WINERY • Penticton • Page 22, 30
WHERE TO EAT
WHERE TO EAT DIRECTORY
THE BEAR, THE FISH, THE ROOT AND THE BERRY • Osoyoos • Page 8, 14
THE GRILL AT BLACK MOUNTAIN • Kelowna • Page 41, 42
HOME BLOCK AT CEDARCREEK ESTATE WINERY • Kelowna • Page 39, 41
KLIPPERS MARKETPLACE AND CAFÉ • Cawston • Page 18, 19, 21
ROW FOURTEEN
725 MacKenzie Road, Cawston
Phone: (250) 499-0758 www.rowfourteen.ca
Cuisine from the earth, the way nature intended. Row Fourteen is a farmto-table restaurant located in the Similkameen Valley focused on creating innovative & meaningful connections between the kitchen, the people, and the land.
MASALA BISTRO PATIO at Kismet Estate Winery • Oliver • Page 14
THE PATIO RESTAURANT at Lake Breeze Vineyards • Naramata • Page 29, 30
THE RESTAURANT AT POPLAR GROVE • Penticton • Page 23, 30
ROW FOURTEEN • Cawston • Page 6, 18, 19, 21
SOMA CRAFT CIDERY • Kelowna • Page 41
SONETTO ITALIAN RESTAURANT at Play Estate Winery • Penticton • Page 26, 27, 30
THE SONORA ROOM RESTAURANT at Burrowing Owl Estate Winery • Oliver • Page 14, 15
SUMMERHILL ORGANIC BISTRO @ Summerhill Pyramid Winery • Kelowna • Page 39, 41
TERRACE RESTAURANT at Mission Hill Family Estate • Kelowna • Page 2, 41
6 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Skaha Lake Motels; Wesbert Winery; Casa Del Mila Oro Resort; Row Fourteen
The year 2021 was a period when extreme weather events prompted new terminology.
In British Columbia, blistering temperatures in late June and early July were the result of a phenomenom described as a “heat dome” that enveloped the province. Much of BC recorded highs in the upper 40s Celsius. The province baked for 11 straight days claiming hundreds of lives and sparking forest fires, one of which obliterated the village of Lytton in a matter of minutes.
Lytton is well documented to have some of the hottest temperatures in the country due
to its dry climate and low elevation. But on the day before the devastating wildfire, the tiny community of 250 experienced what Environment Canada described as a “Death Valley moment” when the mercury reached 49.6 C - the world’s high temperature ever recorded north of the 45th parallel.
It was one of the worst wildfire seasons on record, with 1,610 separate blazes that burned in excess of 86,000 square kilometres across the province.
Capping out the extreme weather systems of 2021 was something called an “atmospheric
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 7
Skaha Lake Motels Beachside Motel Sunny Beach Motel Waterfront Inn Skaha Lake Motels are a collection of three family friendly beach side motels. We are located in British Columbia’s picturesque Okanagan Valley, seconds from beautiful Skaha Lake. We can’t wait for you to join us at the beach, relax, explore, and enjoy your holiday. penticton / bc info@skahalakemotels.com / 250.492.8318 / 3624 Parkview Street, Penticton www.skahalakemotels.com BC WINE COUNTRY 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW
Wines of British Columbia
river.” In mid-November, a powerful band of moisture rolled over southwestern BC, delivering as much as 200-300 millimetres of rain in just over two days. The hardest hit were Merritt, Princeton and much of the Fraser Valley. The storm triggered mud and landslides that walloped key arteries leading in out of the Lower Mainland, cutting it off from the rest of the province. The infrastructure was quickly rebuilt and traffic now flows again with ease.
While the year was one to test the mettle of BC residents, how did local wine producers fair?
The heat, drought and wildfires did present undeniable challenges, but vintners have become accustomed to Mother Nature throwing everything she’s got at them. And they are better prepared for it.
The result, they say, is to expect great wine from the 2021 vintage, just a lot less of it. The reason for that is when the temperatures climbed into the high 40s, the vines simply shut down as they are unable to pull water and nutrients from the ground. Because this occurred just as the plants were entering the grape formation stage, the stress led to weakened fruit set which resulted in smaller berries and lower yields.
Total production is down 15 to 30 per cent, according to Wine Growers British Columbia. But depending on their location, some producers are reporting yield reductions of as much as 50 per cent.
The good news is the smaller clusters have resulted in greater concentration of flavours in the grapes. Consumers can expect fruitforward, complex and well-structured wines.
Smoke and ash is always a cause for concern in vintages marked by excessive wildfires. Of particular note was the Thomas Creek fire at the peak of the growing season near Skaha Lake in Okanagan Falls. Wineries in the area reported heavy smoke blanketing their vineyards in July and August while the more than 10,000 hectare blaze raged out of control. At least one winery has opted not to bottle any of its 2021 vintage due to smoke taint.
The floods that occurred in the Fraser Valley, one of BC’s key wine growing geographical indications, won’t have any bearing on the 2021 vintage. But any future concerns for vineyards in that area are largely unwarranted. With the exception of one, all grape growers were relatively unscathed.
8 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
1200 Rancher Creek Road, Osoyoos | www.spiritridge.hyatt.com | (250) 495-5445
OKANAGAN
In this short stretch of the province, you will find more than half of the grape acreage in British Columbia. So it should come as no surprise that the local chamber of commerce declared the area as the “Wine Capital of Canada.”
If you are looking for a wine-soaked adventure, then the Oliver-Osoyoos region cannot be missed. Here you’ll find more than 60 wineries and British Columbia’s first official sub-geographical indication (sub-GI), the Golden Mile Bench, recognizing it for its unique climates, soil types and wine styles.
Oliver-Osoyoos is where the majority of the “big reds” are grown – Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot – varieties that need an extended growing season and plenty of sunshine and hot.
And this is Canada’s hot spot - literally. It routinely tops the list as the hottest place in the country during the summer. Average daily highs are in excess of 29 C in July, but temperatures in the high 30s and low 40s are not uncommon.
The most southerly region of the Okanagan is a lush landscape populated by acres upon acres of orchards and vineyards making it a veritable paradise of plenty when it comes to fruit and wine.
Every spring the air is filled with the heady scent of fruit tree blossoms and the rolling terrain is an explosion of colour. Vivid green foliage then covers the panorama and eventually the vines and trees are heavy with the season’s fruits.
From July through October, you’ll find roadside stands offering fresh cherries, apricots,
peaches, pears, plums and apples. And, of course, year round wineries will offer up their own bottled bounties made from the grapes and selected tree fruits harvested each year.
Left to its own, this fruitful landscape would actually produce very little. The OliverOsoyoos area is in a desert belt – an extension of the Sonoran stretching up from Mexico. Cacti and rattlesnakes are more at home here and there’s an interpretation centre where visitors can experience Canada’s only desert and explore First Nations culture.
Fertile ground for growing grapes and fruit has been made possible by the use of irrigation, which has given new life to the South Okanagan. The area’s extended days of heat and sunshine has made it possible to grow varieties not previously possible north of the U.S. border.
Osoyoos is the southernmost point in the valley and located on the shores of the warmest lake in Canada. It’s a border town with easy access to the U.S. for those who want to make a quick trip stateside.
Despite recent development of luxury hotels and residential communities, Osoyoos has managed to retain its small-town charm offering idyllic respite with all the amenities you might desire at your fingertips. Dining in the area has been elevated in recent years, with a nod toward regional and season cuisine.
Gorgeous beaches and family-friendly options are plentiful in this stunning lakeside community. Awesome hiking and biking trails and backcountry adventures are close at hand.
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 9
SOUTH OKANAGAN: Osoyoos & Oliver
VALLEY Common varieties grown: Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc Average Daily High Temperature (July): 30C Average Hours of Sunshine: 2039 / Average Annual Rainfall: 250 mm Acreage: 5,562 / Soil: Deep sand over bedrock, gravelly loamy sands.
Destination BC/Andrew Strain
10 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook Platinum Bench Phantom Creek Black Hills Desert Hills Church & State Rainmaker Bartier Bros Here’s The Thing Osoyoos Larose Castoro de Oro Gold Hill La Stella Nk’ Mip Silver Sage Nostalgia Wines Stoneboat Sqeezed Wines River Stone Jackson Triggs Inniskillin Red Horses Oliver Visitor Centre Culmina Checkmate French Door Le Vieux Pin Quinta Ferreira C.C. Jentsch Road 13 Rust Wine Co. Intersection Gehringer Brothers Cassini Hester Creek La Casa Bianca Lariana Wild Rose St. Pine Hill Rd Secrest Hill Rd Covert Place Gallagher Lake Miller Rd Orchard Grove Rd Black Sage Rd Tuc el-Nuit Lake Tucelnuit Dr Rd 7 148 Ave Rd 16 SumacSt One Faith at District Wine Village Covert Farms Pipe Dreams Hidden Chapel vinAmité Blue Sky Liber Farm Osoyoos Visitor’s Centre Lakeside Cellars Adega on 45th Fairview Sonora Desert Maverick Bordertown Young & Wyse Burrowing Owl; Guest House; Sonora Room Moon Curser Casa Del Mila Oro Resort Spirit Ridge Resort; The Bear, the Fish, the Root and the Berry Tinhorn Creek Second Chapter Masala Bistro Patio, Kismet OSOYOOS OLIVER CANADA USA Gallagher Lake Ramification Cellars Vaseaux Lake SOUTH OKANAGAN : Osoyoos & Oliver OLIVER VISITOR CENTRE 6431 Station Street, Oliver / Phone: 778-439-2363 Toll-free: 1-844-896-3300 / www.winecapitalofcanada.com OSOYOOS VISITOR’S CENTRE 9912 BC 3, Osoyoos / Phone: (250) 495-5070 visit@destinationosoyoos.com / www.destinationosoyoos.com INFORMATION SERVICES Winery / Cidery Accommodation Restaurant PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER!
A love and appreciation for the craft of making fine wine underscores every detail at Culmina Family Estate Winery and is embedded in all that we do, from the vineyard to the cellar.
Culmina Winery is located on the prestigious Golden Mile Bench just south of Oliver BC. We invite guests to come visit, learn about our wines, our history and impressive terroir; all while taking in the amazing views from our winery patio or newly renovated tasting room. As part of Culmina’s commitment to excellence, Winemaker and Vigneron, Jean- Marc Enixon manages the vineyard and cellars with precision and care with our 2021 vintage being the first at Culmina Family Estate to be certified 100% Organic - we believe that creating iconic wines begins with being good stewards of our special terroir.
Visitors to the estate will enjoy a seated, guided tasting of our classically styled wines served in varietal-specific glassware. Reservations can be made online at culmina.ca or by calling 250498-0789. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @culminawinery.
CULMINA
WINERY
FAMILY ESTATE
4790 Wild Rose St. Oliver, BC V0H1T0
Phone: (250) 498-0789
Email: info@culmina.ca www.culmina.ca
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 11
TOURING NOTES Wine #1 :: Wine #2 :: Unique Feature of the Winery :: Notes :: 250.498.0789 culmina.ca follow us on: E x c e p t i o n a l W i n e . E x c e p t i o n a l E x p e r i e n c e s .
BC WINERIES
SOUTH OKANAGAN: Osoyoos & Oliver
Osoyoos
Adega on 45th Estate Winery
7311 45th Street, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 495-6243 www.adegaon45.com
Blue Sky Estate Winery 11621 87th Street, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 495-1777 www.blueskywinery.ca
Bordertown Vineyards & Estate Winery 9140 92nd Avenue, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 498-9976 www.bordertownwinery.com
Lakeside Cellars
5221 Lakeshore Drive, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 495-5810 www.lakesidecellars.ca
Lariana Cellars Estate Winery 8310 - 2nd Avenue, Osoyoos Phone: (250) 498-9259 www.larianacellars.com
LaStella 8123 – 148th Avenue, Osoyoos Phone: (250) 495-8180 www.lastella.ca
Liber Farm & Winery 14000 Hwy 97, Osoyoos Phone: (250) 495-0143 www.liberfarm.com
MOON CURSER VINEYARDS
3628 Hwy 3 East, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 495-5161 www.mooncurser.com gold@mooncurser.com
Moon Curser Vineyards, named Best Performing Small Winery in Canada at the 2019 National Wine Awards, is a family-owned winery located on the East Bench of Osoyoos. It is known for its portfolio of award winning wines crafted from unusual (in Canada) grape varieties like Tempranillo, Tannat and the Italian Arneis, among others. See ad on page 13.
Nk’Mip Cellars
1400 Rancher Creek Road, Osoyoos Phone: (250) 495-2985 www.nkmipcellars.com
Osoyoos Larose Estate Winery 17808, 103rd Street, Osoyoos Phone: (250) 498-4981 www.osoyooslarose.com Not open to the public
Sonora Desert Winery 10238 - 160 Avenue, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 801-3001 www.sonoradesertwinery.ca
Young & Wyse Cellection 9503 12th Avenue, Osoyoos Phone: (250) 495-3245 www.youngandwysewine.com
Oliver
Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery 4821 Ryegrass Road, Oliver
Phone: (250) 487-9667 www.bartierbros.com
Black Hills Estate Winery 4190 Black Sage Road, Oliver
Phone: (250) 498-0666 www.blackhillswinery.com
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
Covert Farms Family Estate 300 Covert Place, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-9463 www.covertfarms.ca
CULMINA FAMILY ESTATE WINERY 4790 Wild Rose Street, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-0789 Email: info@culmina.ca www.culmina.ca
A love and appreciation for the craft of making fine wine underscores every detail at Culmina Family Estate Winery and is embedded in all that we do, from the vineyard to the cellar. See ad on page 11.
Desert Hills Estate Winery 4078 Black Sage Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-6664 www.deserthills.ca
BURROWING OWL ESTATE WINERY
500 Burrowing Owl Place (off Black Sage Road), Oliver
Phone: (250) 498-0620 Toll Free: 1-877-498-0620 www.burrowingowlwine.ca Wine Shop open year round for tastings and sales. Call ahead or check our website for reduced winter hours. See ad on page 15
Cassini Cellars 4828 Hwy 97, Oliver Phone: (250) 485-4370 www.cassini.ca
CASTORO DE ORO ESTATE WINERY 4004 BC-97, Oliver, BC V0H 1T1 www.facebook.com/CastorodeOro/ www.castorodeoro.com
Family owned and operated winery. Handcrafting, from grapes to glass, consistently award winning wines from 100% South Okanagan Valley, BC grown grapes since 2006. Winner BEST WINERY “Best of the South Okanagan 2021” Penticton Western News. No appointments necessary. View wine shop hours here: https://g.page/castorodeoro/ See ad on page 2.
Checkmate Artisanal Winery
4799 Wild Rose Street, Oliver Phone: (250) 707-2299 www.checkmatewinery.com
Church & State Wines 4516 Ryegrass Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-2700 www.churchandstatewines.com
District Wine Village: Eau Vivre Winery; Gneiss Wines; JoiRyde; One Faith Vineyards; Silhouette Cellars; TIME Family of Wines; Upper Case Winery; Valley Commons; Vintners Cove Winery; Winemaker’s Cut 100 Enterprise Way, Oliver www.districtwinevillage.com
Fairview Cellars 989 Cellar Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-2211 www.fairviewcellars.ca
French Door Estate Winery 5462 Black Sage Rd. Oliver Phone: (250) 498-0735 www.frenchdoorwinery.com
Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery 876 Road 8, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-3537 www.gehringerwines.ca
Gold Hill Winery 3502 Fruitvale Way, Oliver Phone: (250) 495-8152 www.goldhillwinery.com
Here’s The Thing Vineyards 4740 Black Sage Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-9712 www.heresthethingvineyards.com
Hester Creek Estate Winery 877 Road 8, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-4435 www.hestercreek.com
12 Wine Tour Handbook to British Columbia Itineraries,Maps&More! Your #1 resource for planning your visit to BC wine country www.winetourhub.com EXPERIENCE THE FINEST OF THE OKANAGAN WWW.ONEFAITHVINEYARDS.COM
2019WineAlignNationalWineAwardsofCanada
The Moon Curser name pays tribute to the gold smuggling history of Osoyoos. The Moon Curser wines, however, break from tradition – the winery’s focus has always been on making premium wines from old-world grape varieties not previously planted in the Okanagan such as Tannat, Dolcetto and Touriga Nacional. These varieties have not historically been a part of the South Okanagan viticulture, but thrive in the distinctive terroir of the Osoyoos East Bench and continue to deliver unique, world class interpretations of these wines.
Moon Curser was recognized as #1 Best Performing Small Winery at the 2019 WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada.
MOON CURSER VINEYARDS
Website: mooncurser.com
Twitter: @mooncurser
Instagram: @mooncurservineyards
Facebook: Moon Curser Vineyards
Unique Feature of the Winery :: Notes :: Osoyoos, BC | mooncurser.com
Email: gold@mooncurser.com
3628 Hwy 3 East Osoyoos, BC V0H 1V6
T: 250.495.5161
Wine #2 ::
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 13
Tentative 2022 plans: please check website for current info/winter hours. April 28 – October 31, 10 – 5 daily Tastings by appointment, reservations highly recommended. |
tasting room | wine club
Best Performing Small Winery in Canada
Hidden Chapel Winery 482 Pinehill Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 462-7896 www.hiddenchapelwinery.com
Inniskillin Okanagan 7857 Tucelnuit Drive, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-4500 www.inniskillin.com
Intersection Winery 450 Road 8, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-4054 www.xwine.ca
Jackson-Triggs Okanagan 7857 Tucelnuit Drive, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-4500 www.jacksontriggswinery.com
KISMET ESTATE WINERY 316 Road 20, Oliver Phone: (250) 495-4462 www.kismetestatewinery.com
Enjoy award-winning wines paired with exotic flavours at the Indian Masala Bistro Patio. Book a stay at the Heritage Guest House with a private vineyard and lake view for the ultimate destination experience. Tasting room is open daily, 10am-6pm, from April-October. Wine tours available by appointment.
La Casa Bianca Winery 7249 Hwy 97, Oliver Phone: (250) 689-2790 www.lacasabianca.ca
Le Vieux Pin Winery 5496 Black Sage Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-8388 www.levieuxpin.ca
Maverick Estate Winery 3974 Highway 97, Oliver Phone: (778) 437-3133 www.maverickwine.ca
Nostalgia Wines 398 Lupine Lane, Oliver Phone: (250) 485-0227 www.nostalgiawines.ca
ONE FAITH VINEYARDS & WINERY at District Wine Village 116 - 100 Enterprise Way, Oliver Phone: 1-877-543-6010
Experience the finest wine the Okanagan has to offer. Book your tasting online at www.onefaithvineyards.com Open daily 11 - 5, April through October. See ad on page 12.
Phantom Creek Estates 4315 Black Sage Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-8367 www.phantomcreekestates.com
PIPE DREAMS VINEYARD AND ESTATE WINERY
168 Sportsmens Bowl Road, Oliver Phone: (604) 832-7150 www.pipedreamswinery.com Pipe Dreams represents the fulfillment of chances taken, and working against the grain to achieve the impossible. This boutique winery is now under new ownership which will bring new varieties and still offer you a taste of unique and rarely grown grapes in the Okanagan, including Kerner, Zweigelt, Gamay and Grüner Veltliner. See ad on page 10.
Platinum Bench Estate Winery 4120 Black Sage Road, Oliver, Phone: (250) 535-1165 www.platinumbench.com
Quinta Ferreira Estate Winery 6094 Black Sage Road, Oliver, Phone: (250) 498-4756 www.quintaferreira.com
Rainmaker Wines
4576 Black Sage Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 880-0882 www.rainmakerwines.com
Ramification Cellars 3500 Highway 97, Oliver Phone: (250) 489-4884 www.ramwine.com
Red Horses Vineyard
365 Zinfandel Avenue, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-5388 www.redhorsesvineyard.com
River Stone Estate Winery 143 Buchanan Drive, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-0043 www.riverstoneestatewinery.ca
Road 13 Vineyards
799 Ponderosa Road, Road 13, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-8330 www.Road13Vineyards.com
Rust Wine Co.
4444 Golden Mile Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-3276 www.rustwine.com
Second Chapter Wine Co. 510 Tinhorn Creek Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 485-8424 www.scwines.ca
Silver Sage Winery 4852 Ryegrass Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-0310 www.silversagewinery.com
Squeezed Wines
7229 Tuc-el-Nuit Drive, Oliver Phone: (250) 485-4309 www.squeezedwines.ca
Stoneboat Vineyards
356 Orchard Grove Lane, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-2226 www.stoneboatvineyards.com
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 537 Tinhorn Creek Road, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-3743 www.tinhorn.com
vinAmité Cellars 5381 Highway 97, Oliver Phone: (250) 498-2234 www.vinamitecellars.com
WHERE TO EAT
THE BEAR, THE FISH, THE ROOT AND THE BERRY
1200 Rancher Creek Road, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 495-4660 www.spiritridge.hyatt.com
Savour true to the indigenous inspired cuisine at The Bear, the Fish, the Root and the Berry and, discover for yourself the natural landscapes and delicious food and wine that make Spirit Ridge Resort a true wellness-centered oasis. See ad on page 8.
MASALA BISTRO PATIO
AT KISMET ESTATE WINERY
316 Road 20, Oliver
Phone: (250) 495-4462 www.kismetestatewinery.com
Enjoy award-winning wines paired with exotic flavours at the Indian Masala Bistro Patio. Book a stay at the Heritage Guest House with a private vineyard and lake view for the ultimate destination experience. Tasting room is open daily, 10am-6pm, from April-October. Wine tours available by appointment. Bistro hours of operation, 11am-7pm.
THE SONORA ROOM RESTAURANT
AT BURROWING OWL ESTATE WINERY
500 Burrowing Owl Place, Oliver (off Black Sage Road)
Phone: (250) 498-0620 x2 Toll Free: 1-877-498-0620 www.burrowingowlwine.ca
Open February - December. Fine cuisine paired with award winning wines in a beautiful vineyard setting. See ad on page 15.
WHERE TO STAY
CASA DEL MILA ORO RESORT
5401 Lakeshore Drive, Osoyoos Phone: (250) 495-2373 www.casadelmilaororesort.com orparentals@gmail.com
Luxury lake front resort featuring 2 bedroom condos and 3 bedroom townhouses with patios or balconies and private bbqs. Pool, hot tub, private beach, boat moorage, conference room and free WIFI. See ad on page 6.
THE GUEST HOUSE AT BURROWING OWL ESTATE WINERY
500 Burrowing Owl Place, Oliver (off Black Sage Road)
Phone: 1-877-498-0620 www.burrowingowlwine.ca Nestled in our 140-acre vineyard, just steps away from the Wine Shop and Sonora Room Restaurant, the Guest House at Burrowing Owl is the perfect place to reconnect, retreat and rejuvenate. See ad on page 15.
SPIRIT RIDGE RESORT
1200 Rancher Creek Road, Osoyoos
Phone: (250) 495-5445 www.spiritridge.hyatt.com
A true resort getaway in Canada’s only desert. Join us at our all-suite resort, and discover for yourself the natural landscapes and delicious food and wine that make Spirit Ridge Resort a true wellness-centered oasis. See ad on page 8.
14 Wine Tour Handbook to British Columbia
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery is devoted to crafting premium wines in an environmentally-sustainable manner. Founder Jim Wyse has always had a strong commitment to striving for balance, and this philosophy infuses everything from viticulture to winemaking. In the vineyard, the natural balance is maintained by recruiting bluebirds and bats to help control harmful insects and employing sustainable farming practices; at the winemaking facilities, state-of-theart technology is employed along with traditional winemaking methods.
NOTE: Reccommend replacing Photo w High
Client: Burrowing Owl File: BOEW291_WineTourHB_Ad.indd Size: 5.25” x 4.75” Fonts: Trajan / The Sans Date: 2022_Jan25_Final
Remarkable for its strikingly beautiful setting as well as its environmental leadership, the winery has held its position as an iconic BC winery since its inception in 1993. Guests are welcomed to the Wine Shop, Sonora Room Restaurant, and Guest House for warm and inviting hospitality where the wine takes centre stage in exceptional food and wine pairings, educational tastings, and culinary experiences. Burrowing Owl’s success has also benefited our feathered friends, as the winery supports conservation work to help the endangered burrowing owl make a comeback in British Columbia.
BURROWING OWL ESTATE WINERY
500 Burrowing Owl Place (off Black Sage Road), Oliver Phone: (250) 498-0620 Toll Free: 1-877-498-0620 www.burrowingowlwine.ca
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 15
TOURING
Wine #1 : Wine
: Unique Feature of the
: Notes :
NOTES
#2
Winery
Rez
PROOF ONLY Wine Shop • Restaurant • Guest House
Logos: HR/vector Res: 300ppi Proofed by: -Wine Tour Handbook Ad 2022
Your perfect wine country getaway.
500 Burrowing o wl Place, o liver, B c • 1-877-498-0620 • burrowingowlwine.ca
OKANAGAN VALLEY
The unassuming communities of Okanagan Falls and Kaleden located south of Penticton are part of an impressive wine growing hub.
In 2018, Okanagan Falls became one of Sub-Geographical Indications in BC under a system that recognizes smaller, more defined pockets with unique grape growing terroirs. It’s a designation to be fiercely proud of.
The first winery opened in 1986 and now about 20 can be found along the region’s winding roads. Most of them are members of the Okanagan Falls Skaha Winery Association, at which Okanagan Falls is the centre, stretching north along the east bench of Skaha Lake, across the water to Kaleden and south over the hills of Vaseux Lake.
The association describes this area as a “unique climatic zone known as a semi-arid steppe, the finale stage of a desert area that extends up from the United States. Along with that comes long warm days and cool nights that retain the acidity in the grapes and helps shape their distinctive character and flavours.”
Many of the wineries have embraced this unique terroir to craft products with individual signatures to critical acclaim. You’ll find organic, biodynamic, rustic and sophisticated wines made here.
The Okanagan Falls and Kaleden area harkens back to a simpler way of living. You won’t find any big box stores here, but if you’re in need of some retail therapy, you’ll be delighted by the eclectic mix of antique stores and craft shops, plus a flea market.
The “falls” themselves don’t actually exist. Originally, twin falls fell from where Skaha Lake empties into the river, however, in the 1950s a series of dams to control flooding were built, reducing the falls into a series of rapids.
Nonetheless, the area is a huge draw for nature lovers as a large selection of wildlife lives in the area, with many unique desert flora and fauna for naturalists to explore. A bird sanctuary is situated at Vaseux Lake just south of the town, complete with an interpretive centre.
16 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
SOUTH OKANAGAN: Okanagan Falls & Kaleden
Common varieties grown: Riesling, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer
Average Daily High Temperature July: 29C Average Hours of Sunshine: 1925 / Average Annual Rainfall: 297 mm Acreage: 703 / Soil types: Terraced slopes with clay, sandy loam, gravel
Destination BC/Kari Medig
Okanagan
PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER! Winery
BC WINERIES
Okanagan Falls
BC WINE STUDIO
2434 Oliver Ranch Road, Okanagan Falls
Text: (250) 689-7980 www.bcwinestudio.ca
A boutique winery and crush pad facility in the heart of Okanagan Falls. Hand crafting award winning wines. Family owned and operated. Community of like minded Winemakers under one roof. Reputed for unique tasting experiences. Reservation needed for 2022 season. Due to bad cell reception text 250-6897980 for a reservation. See ad on page 2.
BlackDog Cellars
385 Matheson Road, Okanagan Falls
Phone: (250) 497-5991 www.blackdogcellars.ca
Blasted Church
378 Parsons Road, Okanagan Falls phone: (250) 497-1125 www.blastedchurch.com
Blue Mountain Vineyard & Cellars
2385 Allendale Road, Okanagan Falls Phone: (250) 497-8244 www.bluemountainwinery.com
Bonamici Cellars
2385 Rolling Hills Road, Okanagan Falls
Phone: (604) 868-2356 www.bonamicicellars.com
17 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Echo Bay Vineyard
224 Eastside Road, Okanagan Falls
Phone: (250) 490-6228 www.echobayvineyard.ca by appointment only
Liquidity Wines
4720 Allendale Road, Okanagan Falls Phone: (778) 515-5500 www.liquiditywines.com
Meyer Family Vineyards
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
Stag’s Hollow Winery & Vineyard 2237 Sun Valley Way, Okanagan Falls Phone: (250) 497-6162 www.stagshollowwinery.com
Synchromesh Wines Inc. 4220 McLean Creek Road, Okanagan Falls Phone: (250) 535-1558 www.synchromeshwines.ca
4287 McLean Creek Road, Okanagan Falls phone: (250) 497-8553 www.MFVwines.com
Montakarn Winery
2356 Rolling Hills Road, Okanagan Falls Phone: (250) 498-7709 www.montakarn.ca
Nighthawk Vineyards
2735 Green Lake Road, Okanagan Falls Phone: (250) 497-8874 www.nighthawkvineyards.com
Noble Ridge Vineyard and Winery 2320 Oliver Ranch Road, Okanagan Falls Phone: (250) 497-7945 www.nobleridge.com
See Ya Later Ranch 2575 Green Lake Road, Okanagan Falls Phone: (250) 497-8267 www.sylranch.com
Wild Goose Vineyards & Winery 2145 Sun Valley Way, Okanagan Falls Phone: (250) 497-8919 www.wildgoosewinery.com
Kaleden
Black Market Wine Co. 198 Spruce Avenue, Kaleden Phone: (778) 515-3311 www.blackmarketwine.ca
Farm Gate Winery 346 Hwy 97, Kaleden Phone: (250) 497-6133 www.farmgatewinery.com
Kraze Legz Vineyard & Winery 141 Fir Avenue, Kaleden Phone: (250) 497-6957 www.krazelegz.com
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 17
Black Dog
Blasted Church Echo Bay
Bonamici
Kraze Legz Nighthawk Farm
See Ya Later Ranch
Montakarn Blue Mountain BC Wine Studio Noble Ridge LiquidityWines Wild Goose Stags Hollow Mayer Family Synchromesh Black Market Lakeboat Spruce Ave
Gate
SOUTH OKANAGAN
:
Falls & Kaleden
SOUTH OKANAGAN: Okanagan Falls & Kaleden
Lakeboat Vineyard and WInery 236 Linden Ave, Kaleden Phone: (778) 233-4458
18 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook www.klippersorganics.com
/ DRINK
SLEEP Cawston BC
EAT
/
Regenerative and Sustainable Family Farming, Farm-To-Table Dining, Quality Craft Cider & More…All in the beautiful Similkameen Valley
Nestled right in the heart of the Similkameen Valley’s wine country, Klippers Organic Acres has everything guests need to enjoy all that the South Okanagan and Similkameen Valley regions have to offer.
Located just a 40 minute drive from Penticton, 45 minutes to the Naramata Bench, and half an hour away from Osoyoos; wine, culinary, and nature lovers, alike, will be sure to have a relaxing and immersive experience in the Okanagan/ Similkameen while visiting and/or staying at Klippers Organic Acres.
A bit of Klippers Organic Acres history… Klippers Organic Acres was founded in 2001 by Kevin and Annamarie Klippenstein when they purchased a 5-acre parcel of land in Cawston, BC to grow fruits and vegetables using organic principles. At this time, the Klippenstein’s goal was to provide healthy, high-quality produce to families across British Columbia. Since then, their goal hasn’t changed much. Today, Kevin and Annamarie are proud to say that they have been farming for over twenty years and what started as 5 acres has expanded to 60.
Today at Klippers Organic Acres… Klippers Organic Acres is proud to have stayed true to the regenerative agriculture practices that they have been implementing for over 20 years. Today, guests can enjoy the following on-site amenities:
ROW FOURTEEN
An award-winning farm-to-table restaurant, in partnership with Chef Derek Gray.
725 MacKenzie Road, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-0758 www.rowfourteen.ca
UNTANGLED CRAFT CIDER
An organic craft cidery.
725 MacKenzie Road, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-0758 www.untangledcider.ca
KLIPPERS MARKETPLACE AND CAFÉ
625 MacKenzie Road, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-0832 www.klippersorganics.com
KLIPPERS GUEST SUITES
Four guest suites. 2229 Ferko Road, Cawston Phone: (604) 316-3863 www.klippersorganics.com
TOURING NOTES
Notes :::
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 19
SIMILKAMEEN VALLEY
The Similkameen Valley is considered the Organic Capital of Canada and consists of small vineyards, orchards and farms set among rolling grasslands and rugged mountains.
Situated on the banks of the Similkameen River, which breathes life into the otherwise arid terrain, it’s rich in a pioneering spirit and ranches and farms still thrive throughout the area. There’s also a mining history and hopeful prospectors continue to be drawn to the river’s edge to pan for gold.
The Similkameen Valley is described by the local tourism association as “off the beaten path, eclectic, out there and edgy.” It is certainly worth a visit.
The area enjoys a dry, breezy climate that helps keeps farmland free of pests, rot and mildew, which makes it suitable for organic growing.
Along with its organic reputation, the region is also considered to be the Fruit Stand Capital, but is increasingly being recognized as a emerging wine region in its own right. It is one of the province’s Georgraphical Indications, with 15-plus wineries producing both grape and fruit products in the bottle. Most are concentrated in the KeremeosCawston area. They’ll make you think twice about what is possible with the region’s bounty.
The Similkameen boasts scores of accessible fishing lakes along with the remote backcountry terrain of Cathedral Provincial Park, a major attraction to adventure seekers looking for unparalleled experiences and breathtaking views. History buffs will be drawn to the old frontier-like atmosphere and landscape.
Vanessa Scout S’milka Vista Forbidden Fruit
Seven Stones
Corcelettes Clos Du Soleil Hugging Tree
Little Farm Winery Eau Vivre
Similkameen WILD
Crowsnest Horseshoe Found
Orofino
Rustic Roots
Untangled Craft Cidery
Klippers Guest Suites
Robin Ridge Row Fourteen and Klippers Marketplace and Café PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER!
Common
varieties
grown: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Chardonnay
Average Daily High Temperature July: 29C Average Hours of Sunshine: 2600 / Average Annual Rainfall: 256 mm Acreage: 633 / Soil: Stony, gravelly, and silty loams
Cawston
& Keremeos
20 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
BC WINERIES
SIMILKAMEEN VALLEY: Cawston & Keremeos
Cawston
Crowsnest Vineyards
2035 Surprise Drive, Cawston
Phone: (250) 499-5129 www.crowsnestvineyards.com
Eau Vivre Winery & Vineyards
716 Lowe Drive, Cawston
Phone: (250) 499-2655 www.EauVivreWinery.ca
FORBIDDEN FRUIT WINERY
620 Sumac Road., Cawston
Phone: (250) 499-2649 www.forbiddenfruitwine.com
Forbidden Fruit Winery is a family owned and operated certified organic boutique winery located on a certified organic tree fruit farm, vineyard and nature estate along the banks of the pristine Similkameen River. The winery produces small lots of premium award winning tree fruit wines and grape wines. See ad on page 2.
Horseshoe Found Winery
715 Lowe Drive, Cawston
Phone: (778) 773-9605 www.horseshoefoundwinery.com
Little Farm Winery 2155 Newton Road, Cawston www.littlefarmwinery.ca Not open to the public
Orofino Vineyards 2152 Barcelo Road, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-0068 www.orofinovineyards.com
WHERE TO EAT
KLIPPERS MARKETPLACE AND
625 MacKenzie Road, Cawston
Rustic Roots 2238 Hwy 3, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-2754 www.rusticrootswinery.com
S’milka Vista 1002 BC-3, Cawston Phone: (604) 353-1666 www.smilkavista.com
Scout Vineyard 761 Highway 3, Cawston www.scoutvineyard.com not open to the public
Seven Stones Winery 1143 Highway 3, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-2144 www.sevenstones.ca
Similkameen WILD Winery 306 Sumac Road, Cawston Phone: (604) 807 5659 www.similkameenwild.com
Vanessa Vineyard 1090 Highway 3, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-8811 www.vanessavineyard.com
CIDERY
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
Keremeos
CLOS DU SOLEIL
2568 Upper Bench Road, Keremeos Phone: (250) 499-2831 wine@closdusoleil.ca www.closdusoleil.ca
Clos du Soleil, a boutique winery in the Similkameen Valley, specializes in terroirdriven wines from Bordeaux varieties. The wines are elegant, classic, complex and age-worthy. For the latest updates on our Tasting Room hours and to book tastings online, visit www.closdusoleil. ca/visit or email wine@closdusoleil.ca. See ad on page 21.
Corcelettes Estate Winery
2582 Upper Bench Road, Keremeos Phone: (250) 499-5595 www.corceletteswine.ca
Hugging Tree Winery
2505 Upper Bench Road, Keremeos Phone: (250) 499-2201 www.huggingtreewinery.com
Robin Ridge Winery 2686 Middle Bench Road, Keremeos Phone: (250) 499-5504 www.robinridgewinery.com
UNTANGLED CRAFT CIDER 725 MacKenzie Road, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-0758 www.untangledcider.ca Embracing a tree-to-tap philosophy, all of the fruit used to make the unique & natural craft ciders at Untangled is grown on-site at Klippers Organic Acres. See ad on page 18, 19.
WHERE TO STAY
CAFÉ
Phone: (250) 499-0832 / www.klippersorganics.com
Klippers Marketplace & Cafe acts as a hub for guests to enjoy quality coffee, lunch, baked goods, local produce, grocery items, gifts, and more! See ad on page 18, 19.
ROW FOURTEEN
725 MacKenzie Road, Cawston Phone: (250) 499-0758 / www.rowfourteen.ca
Cuisine from the earth, the way nature intended. Row Fourteen is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the Similkameen Valley focused on creating innovative & meaningful connections between the kitchen, the people, and the land. See ad on page 2, 6, 18, 19.
KLIPPERS GUEST SUITES
2229 Ferko Road, Cawston Phone: (604) 316-3863 www.klippersorganics.com
Nestled in the heart of the Similkameen Valley’s wine region, Klippers Organic Acres offers spacious & luxurious accommodations for guests to enjoy a down-to-earth stay. See ad on page 6, 18, 19.
CLOS DU SOLEIL WINERY
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 21 wine@closdusoleil.ca www.closdusoleil.ca @closdusoleil @closdusoleilwinery
The wine growing regions of Penticton and Naramata tick all the boxes for travellers seeking the convenience of an urban setting with the tranquility of rural life.
Penticton is a city with a small-town feel and is ideally situated between Okanagan and Skaha Lakes, offering up stretches of sandy shoreline and crystal waters. There’s a river channel that winds through the heart of the city and visitors can leisurely float the entire length on tubes and other floatation devices, an activity that has been listed in the book titled, The Great Canadian Bucket List.
The City of Penticton is renowned for its festivals and special events including the Fest of Ale, Peachfest, Pentastic Hot Jazz Festival, Elvis Festival and the Ironman Triathalon. Signature events for the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival are also held here.
Adventure travellers will appreciate that they’re only minutes from Skaha Bluffs,
a climber’s paradise that has garnered international recognition.
Just a short drive through the city and around the north side of Okanagan Lake and you’ll find yourself on the Naramata Bench, a pastoral vineyard nirvana with stunning water views.
Here is where you’ll find one of the highest concentrations of wineries in the Okanagan Valley, bearing a unique terroir that has been recognized as one of the Sub-Geographical Indications
The Naramata Bench is a great option for destination day trips and if you don’t mind the occasional hill climb, this is a sensational spot for a winery cycle tour.
Further south on the eastside bench of the Skaha Lake you’ll find another small cluster of wineries. This area is also recognized for its unique terroir by also being identified as a Sub GI.
22 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
SOUTH OKANAGAN: Penticton & Naramata OKANAGAN VALLEY Common varieties grown: Riesling, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer, Cabernet Franc Average Daily High Temperature July: 29C Average Hours of Sunshine: 1923 / Average Annual Rainfall: 299 mm Acreage: 1,232 / Soil: Glacial lake sediments components of silts and fine sands Life, vine and wine flow in harmony Book your tasting today! 250 Upper Bench Road S, Penticton, BC 250-493-3625 / info@fourshadowsvineyard.com Open daily May - October Opening Spring2022 Chain Reaction Winery 980 Naramata Rd, Penticton 778.622.7176 chainreactionwine.com Okanagan's First Cycling Inspired Winery Award-winning wines. A little bit funky. Mostly classy. Always fun.
Great wines are born from the courage to go beyond what’s possible. Nestled on the slope of Munson Mountain, at the gateway to the Naramata Bench, Poplar Grove has been nurturing the potential of their estate vineyards into each bottle for over 25 years.
Family owned and operated, the Holler family farms over 140 acres of estate vineyards using sustainable farming methods that result in grapes that are an optimum expression of the Okanagan Valley.
Visit the winery to experience breathtaking views of the Okanagan Valley while sipping on a selection of signature wines. Join the Poplar Grove Wine Club to receive discounts on direct wine purchases and access to member-only wines.
Stay for lunch or dinner at The Restaurant at Poplar Grove. The restaurant offers exceptional views of Okanagan Lake and beyond while offering a taste of refined nostalgia. Combine the view, the food and the service with Poplar Grove’s exceptional wines to create a lasting wine country experience.
POPLAR GROVE WINERY
425 Middle Bench Road North, Penticton Phone: (250) 493 9463 www.poplargrove.ca
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 23
TOURING NOTES Wine #1 :: Wine #2 :: Unique Feature of the Winery :: Notes ::
Fairview Rd Skaha Lake Rd Main St Government St S Main St Lakeside Rd Eckhardt Ave Upper Bench Rd Johnson Rd Naramata Rd Naramata Rd Gammon Rd Wade Ave Vancouver Ave Evans Ave Old Main Rd Lower Debeck Rd Three Mile Rd OKANAGAN LAKE Robinson Ave NARAMATA Industrial Ave Carmi Ave CarmiAve Warren Ave Green Mountain Road PENTICTON Bench 1775 Black Widow Aasha Wines Terravista Foxtrot Mocojo Bella Wines Sandy Beach Lodge & Resort Daydreamer Nichol Kettle Valley Serendipity Therapy Vineyards Deep Roots Lake Breeze; The Patio Restaurant Marichel Lang Elephant Island JoieFarm Van Westen Moraine Laughing Stock Origin Howling Bluff Singletree Wesbert Winery & Guest Rooms Tightrope La Petite Abeille Cider Hillside Monster Poplar Grove & Restaurant Fox & Archer Township 7 Three Sisters Da Silva Four Shadows La Frenz Little Engine Red Rooster Ruby Blues Chain Reaction D’Angelo Lock & Worth Play Estate Hostelling International BC VQA Wine Information Centre Olivia’s Oils & Vinegars Sonetto Italian Restaurant Roche Upper Bench Painted Rock Crescent Hill Pentâge SKAHA LAKE Time / Evolve Waterfront Inn Sunny Beach Motel Beachside Motel SOUTH OKANAGAN : Penticton & Naramata PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER! VALHALLA HELICOPTERS See ad on page 2. EXPERIENCE TOURS 24 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook Retail Winery / Cidery Accommodation Restaurant
“At Bench 1775, one of the best winery patios in the world is a must stop for a glass of Glow Rosé.” Anthony Gismondi, The Vancouver Sun July 5, 2014
With carefully crafted, award-winning wines, a lively atmosphere, astounding views and seasonal food offerings, Bench 1775 is a top-rated winery in BC and Canada. Located in the center of the Naramata Bench, it is an obvious choice for those seeking a venue for weddings and private functions. In our wine shop, our friendly staff will taste you through the hidden gems of our portfolio. Our happily situated patio overlooks the BEST view in the Okanagan, with live music and lots of sunshine. Please feel free to ask about our wine club membership and its benefits. The tasting room has varied hours depending on the season, email wineshop@bench1775.com to find out our hours during your visit.
BENCH 1775 WINERY 1775 Naramata Road, Penticton, BC V2A 8T8 (250) 490-4965 info@bench1775.com www.bench1775.com
TOURING NOTES
Wine #1 ::
Wine #2 ::
Unique Feature of the Winery ::
Notes ::
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 25
26 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook FINE ITALIAN CUISINE AND EXTRAORDINARY WINES PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR CURRENT HOURS OF OPERATION www.playwinery.com
The name “Play” refers to theatre and encompasses the pursuit and overall expression of the Arts.
The rebranding of Play Estate Winery over the past 2 years, and the recent extensive renovations undertaken by proprietor and restauranteur Giulio Miceli, have reinforced this theme.
In the words of William Shakespeare, “All the worlds a stage, and all men and women merely players.”
At Play and newly created Sonetto Italian Restaurant, we embrace our roles to both entertain and educate, while providing a genuine customer experience. Our mission is to create a mini escape from day-to-day life, highlighting exquisite Italian cuisine, extraordinary wines, and a majestic unobstructed world class view of the Skaha Lake and surrounding mountains.
Our talented winemaker Stephanie Bryers joined the team at Play in March of 2019, after honing her skills and knowledge in Ontario, New Zealand, Portugal, and eventually in the Okanagan, producing 3 vintages as assistant winemaker at Culmina Winery.
Her talents and efforts have been recently rewarded, having achieved several accolades at the 2021 Wine Align National Canadian Awards, and most notably, a silver medal for the 2019 Cabernet Franc.
Play Estate Winery and Sonetto are located just minutes from downtown Penticton, on Skaha Hills Drive, overlooking beautiful Skaha Lake.
PLAY ESTATE WINERY 507 Skaha Hills Drive, Penticton, BC, V2A O9A Info@playwinery.com Phone: (236) 422-2675 www.Playwinery.com
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 27
TOURING NOTES Wine #1 :: Wine #2 :: Wine #3 :: Unique Feature of the Winery :: Notes ::
BC WINERIES
PENTICTON
Aasha Wines
1660 Naramata Road, Penticton info@aashawines.com www.aashawines.com
BENCH 1775 WINERY
1775 Naramata Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 490-4965 info@bench1775.com www.bench1775.com
Named after the address of our winery, 1775 Naramata Road, along the beautiful Naramata Road, Bench 1775 Winery is a celebration of land and place. See ad on page 25.
Black Widow Winery
1630 Naramata Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 487-2347 www.blackwidowwinery.com
CHAIN REACTION WINERY
980 Naramata Road, Penticton Phone: (778) 622-7176 www.chainreactionwine.com
Opening its doors in May 2022, Naramata Bench’s newest winery invites you to taste its portfolio of award-winning wines. Enjoy the stunning views and fun, casual atmosphere. Talk wine or cycling with the owners. See ad on page 22.
Crescent Hill Winery 205 Spruce Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 492-7842 www.crescenthillwinery.com
D’Angelo Estate Winery
979 Lochore Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 493-1364 www.dangelowinery.com
Da Silva Vineyards and Winery 375 Upper Bench Road North, Penticton Toll Free: 1-800-851-0903 www.dasilvavineyards.com
Evolve Cellars
361 Martin Street, Penticton Phone: (236) 422-2556 www.evolvecellars.com
FOUR SHADOWS VINEYARD & WINERY
250 Upper Bench Road South, Penticton Phone: (250) 493-3625 www.fourshadowsvineyard.com
Four Shadows Vineyard & Winery is located at the southern end of the Naramata Bench, where life, vine and wine flow in harmony. See ad on page 22.
Fox&Archer 655 Naramata Rd, Penticton www.foxandarcher.com Not open to the public
Hillside Winery 1350 Naramata Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 493-6274 www.hillsidewinery.ca
Howling Bluff Estate Winery
1086 Three Mile Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 490-3640 www.howlingbluff.ca
La Frenz Estate Winery
1525 Randolph Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 492-6690 www.lafrenzwinery.com
LAUGHING STOCK VINEYARDS
1548 Naramata Road. Penticton Phone: (250) 493-8466 info@laughingstock.ca www.laughingstock.ca
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
Roche Wines
60 Upper Bench Road South, Penticton Phone: (236) 422-2722 www.rterroir.ca
Ruby Blues Winery 917 Narmata Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 276-5311 www.rubyblueswinery.ca
Laughing Stock Vineyards is approaching its 20th year of production. Since its inaugural vintage in 2003, LFNG has been a jewel in the Naramata Bench portfolio of wineries and a must stop for anyone seeking an intimate and in-depth wine experience. See ad on page 31.
Little Engine Wines 851 Naramata Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 493-0033 www.littleenginewines.com
Lock & Worth Winery 1060 Poplar Grove Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 492-4575 www.lockandworth.com
Monster Vineyards 1010 Tupper Avenue, Penticton Phone: (250) 493-9463 www.monstervineyards.com
Moraine Estate Winery 1865 Naramata Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 460-1836 www.morainewinery.com
Origin Wines 1278 Riddle Rd, Penticton Phone: (250) 328-2158 www.originwines.ca
Painted Rock Estate Winery 400 Smythe Drive, Penticton phone: (250) 493-6809 www.paintedrock.ca
Pentâge Winery 4551 Valleyview Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 493-4008 www.pentage.com
PLAY ESTATE WINERY
507 Skaha Hills Drive, Penticton Phone: (236) 422-2675 Info@playwinery.com www.Playwinery.com
At Play Winery and our newly created Sonetto Italian Restaurant, we embrace our roles to both entertain and educate while providing a genuine customer experience. See ad on page 26, 27.
POPLAR GROVE WINERY
425 Middle Bench Road North, Penticton Phone: (250) 493 9463 www.poplargrove.ca Estate Grown. Locally Farmed. Family Owned. Visit the winery to experience breathtaking views of the Okanagan Valley while sipping on a selection of our signature wines. See ad on page 23.
Red Rooster Winery 891 Naramata Road, Penticton Phone: (250) 492-2424 www.redroosterwinery.com
Singletree Winery 1435 Naramata Rd, Penticton www.singletreewinery.com
Terravista Vineyards 1853 Sutherland Road, Penticton Phone: (778) 476-6011 www.terravistavineyards.com
Three Sisters Winery 1250 Munson Avenue, Penticton Phone: (236) 422-2296 www.3sisterswinery.com
Tightrope Winery 1050 Fleet Road, Penticton Phone: (778) 476-7673 www.tightropewinery.ca
TIME Winery 361 Martin Street, Penticton Phone: (236) 422-2556 www.timewines.ca
Township 7 Vineyards & Winery 1450 McMillan Avenue, Penticton Phone: (250) 770-1743 www.township7.com
Upper Bench Winery & Creamery 170 Upper Bench Road South, Penticton Phone: (250) 770-1733 www.upperbench.ca
WESBERT WINERY 1465 Naramata Road, Penticton Phone: (778)738-1113 wesbertwinery.com
Located on Naramata Road outside Penticton, Wesbert Winery produces award-winning wines. Its onsite guest suites consist of three upmarket rooms each with full ensuite bathrooms. See ad on page 22.
NARAMATA
1 Mill Road Vineyard www.1millroad.ca Not open to the public Bella Wines Ltd. 4320 Gulch Road, Naramata Phone: (778) 996-1829 www.bellawines.ca
Coolshanagh Vineyard 6301 N Naramata Rd, Naramata Phone: (250) 809-4695 www.coolshanagh.ca
Daydreamer Wines Inc. 1305 Smethurst Road, Naramata Phone: (778) 514-0026 www.daydreamerwines.ca
Deep Roots Winery 884 Tillar Road, Naramata Phone: (250) 460-2390 www.DeepRootsWinery.com
28 Wine Tour Handbook to British Columbia
SOUTH OKANAGAN: Penticton & Naramata
Lake Breeze Vineyards is a family owned hidden gem on the Naramata Bench that has been producing award winning wines since 1995. Located 12 km North of Penticton along Okanagan Lake, we produce Okanagan classics such as Pinot Gris, Merlot, and Pinot Noir. Unique varietals such as Ehrenfelser, Pinotage, and our signature Pinot Blanc have secured us a spot among the essential wineries to visit for both red and white award winning wines.
At Lake Breeze you can pause, relax, and savour the breathtaking views of the Okanagan Valley by walking through the farmstead and indulging in a memorable courtyard wine tasting followed by a wine country lunch at the Patio Restaurant.
Chef Mark Ashton’s menu is inspired by fresh ingredients from the Lake Breeze Farmstead to create a soulful, casual fine dining experience.
LAKE BREEZE VINEYARDS
930 Sammet Road, Naramata, BC (250) 496-5659 www.lakebreeze.ca info@lakebreeze.ca
Tasting Room Hours:
May - October: Daily 11:00 - 5:00
Patio Restaurant Hours: May - October: Daily 11:30 - 3:30
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 29
of the
TOURING NOTES Wine #1 :: Wine #2 :: Unique Feature
Winery :: Notes ::
Elephant Island Orchard Wines
2730 Aikens Loop, Naramata
Phone: (250) 496-5522 www.elephantislandwine.com
Foxtrot Vineyards
1201 Gawne Road, Naramata
Phone: (250) 496-5082 www.foxtrotwine.com
JoieFarm Winery 2825 Naramata Road, Naramata Phone: (250) 496-0093 www.joiefarm.com
Kettle Valley Winery 2988 Hayman Road, Naramata Phone: (250) 496-5898 www.kettlevalleywinery.com
LAKE BREEZE VINEYARDS 930 Sammet Road, Naramata Phone: (250) 496-5659 www.lakebreeze.ca
Join us to experience our wide range of award winning wines, our tasting
WHERE TO STAY
BEACHSIDE MOTEL
room staff will lead you through an unforgettable and comprehensive tasting in our beautiful outdoor courtyard. To reserve visit www.lakebreeze.ca
Tasting hours: May – October 11:005:00 daily. See ad on page 29.
Lang Vineyards 2493 Gammon Road, Naramata Phone: (778) 514-5598 www.langvineyards.ca
MACINTYRE HERITAGE RESERVE 930 Sammet Road, Naramata www.macintyrewine.com sales@macintyrewine.com
A bold and prideful celebration, honouring those who have walked before us. MacIntyre wines encapsulate our ultimate effort to produce the very finest Naramata Bench Wines. Bar None.
Marichel Vineyard and Winery 1016 Littlejohn Road, Naramata Phone: 250 496-4133 www.marichel.ca
Mocojo Vineyard
1202 Gawne Road, Naramata Phone: (250) 496 - 4063 www.mocojowines.com
Nichol Vineyard 1285 Smethurst Road, Naramata Phone: (250) 496-5962 www.nicholvineyard.com
Serendipity Estate Winery 990 Lower Debeck Road, Naramata Phone: (250) 486-5290 www.serendipitywinery.com
Therapy Vineyards & Inn 940 Debeck Road, Naramata Phone: (250) 496-5217 www.TherapyVineyards.com
Van Westen Vineyards 2800A Aikins Loop, Naramata Phone: (250) 496-0067 www.vanwestenvineyards.com
3624 Parkview Street, Penticton / Phone: (250) 492-8318 / info@beachsidemotel.ca / www.skahalakemotels.com We are located moments away from the beautiful Skaha Beach and Skaha Beach Park with access to tennis courts, water spray park and beach volleyball courts. Take advantage of our central courtyard with BBQ’s, picnic tables and playground. See ad on page 7.
HOSTELLING INTERNATIONAL PENTICTON 464 Ellis Street, Penticton
Phone: (250) 492-3992 Toll Free: 1-866-782-9736 / penticton@hihostels.ca / www.hihostels.ca/penticton Starting from just $30.00/night, guests can expect a relaxed, home-away-from-home feel when staying at HI Penticton. Our staff know how to add those special touches to those visiting the land of peaches, great wines and beaches.
SANDY BEACH LODGE & RESORT 4275 Mill Road, Naramata
Phone: 250-496-5765 / Toll Free: 1-866-496-5765 / hello@sandybeachresort.com / www.sandybeachresort.com
AN IDEAL OKANAGAN WATERFRONT RESORT, IN THE HEART OF NARAMATA BENCH WINE COUNTRY. THIS 4-STAR RATED RESORT PROVIDES THE PERFECT SETTING FOR FAMILY HOLIDAYS, WEEKEND GETAWAYS & GROUP FUNCTIONS. See ad on page 5.
SUNNY BEACH MOTEL
3648 Parkview Street, Penticton / Phone: (250) 492-8318 / info@sunnybeachmotel.ca / www.skahalakemotels.com
Located steps away from beautiful Skaha Lake and Skaha Lake Park, Sunny Beach Motel is your home away from home. Soak up the local shops and cafes, catch a tan, have some fun and create lasting memories with your loved ones. See ad on page 7.
WATERFRONT INN
3688 Parkview Street, Penticton / Phone: (250) 492-8318 / info@waterfrontinn.ca / www.skahalakemotels.com Located on beautiful Skaha Lake in Penticton, the Waterfront Inn is the perfect location to relax, explore and play in BC’s picturesque Okanagan Valley. We provide guests with direct access to Skaha Lake and Skaha Lake Park and is within close proximity to shopping and dining in downtown Penticton. See ad on page 7.
WESBERT WINERY
1465 Naramata Road, Penticton / Phone: (778)738-1113 / wesbertwinery.com
Located on Naramata Road outside Penticton, Wesbert Winery produces award-winning wines. Its onsite guest suites consist of three upmarket rooms each with full ensuite bathrooms. See ad on page 22.
WHERE TO EAT
THE PATIO RESTAURANT AT LAKE BREEZE VINEYARDS
930 Sammet Road, Naramata / Phone: (250) 496-5659 / www.lakebreeze.ca Join us on the Patio and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience set amongst the picturesque backdrop of the Naramata Bench. Chef Mark Ashton’s locally sourced and seasonally inspired dishes are paired with our award winning wines. To reserve visit www.lakebreeze.ca. Patio hours: May – October 11:30 – 3:30 daily. See ad on page 29.
THE RESTAURANT AT POPLAR GROVE
425 Middle Bench Road North, Penticton
Phone: (250) 493 9463 / www.poplargrove.ca
The Restaurant at Poplar Grove provides the view and exceptional food paired with our delicious wines, to create lasting culinary memories for all our guests. See ad on page 23.
SONETTO ITALIAN RESTAURANT AT PLAY ESTATE WINERY
507 Skaha Hills Drive, Penticton / Phone: (236) 422-2675 Info@playwinery.com / www.Playwinery.com
At Play Winery and our newly created Sonetto Italian Restaurant, we embrace our roles to both entertain and educate while providing a genuine customer experience. See ad on page 26, 27.
RETAIL
BC VQA WINE INFORMATION CENTRE
#101-553 Vees Drive, Penticton Phone: (250) 490-2006 www.pentictonwineinfo.com
Specialty retailer of BC VQA wines and fine wine giftware open daily. Local cheeses and bites. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Designated BC VQA parking in front of the store. See ad on page 5.
30 Wine Tour Handbook to British Columbia
Laughing Stock Vineyards is approaching its 20th year of production. Since its inaugural vintage in 2003, LFNG has been a jewel in the Naramata Bench portfolio of wineries and a must stop for anyone seeking an intimate and in-depth wine experience. We are excited to share a variety of wines representative of both old world and new world winemaking styles, with our flagship wine Portfolio, as our most traded and valued stock option.
Our dedicated winemaking team sources fruit from our Naramata Bench and Perfect Hedge Vineyard in Osoyoos to create wines that are fresh and lively while offering aging potential for those who enjoy cellaring their wines.
The Tasting Room is open by appointment from March to November. Our knowledgeable guest experience team would be delighted to meet you and introduce you to our wines as you take in the magical views from our Naramata Bench Estate. Reservations can be made online at laughingstock.ca or by calling 250-493-8466. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @lfngwine.
LAUGHING
STOCK VINEYARDS
1548 Naramata Rd. Penticton, BC V2A 8T7 Phone: (250) 493-8466 info@laughingstock.ca www.laughingstock.ca
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 31
TOURING NOTES Wine #1 :: Wine #2 :: Unique Feature of the Winery :: Notes :: 250.493.8466 laughingstock.ca follow us on:
bench h o w l i q u i d a r e y o u r a s s e t s ?
naramata
As their names suggest, they are tranquil retreats bathed yearly in ample sunshine. Both offer clean waterfront access to beaches, marine parks and docks as well as walking, hiking and biking trails. And if that isn’t enough to draw visitors, let’s talk about the hospitality and the wines.
Here, wine lovers will find unique pockets of eclectic wineries, some located right off Highway 97, which serves as the main artery, while others are dotted along
32 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Black Sage Vineyard Steller’s Jay Sparkling Sumac Ridge
SummerGate
OKANAGAN LAKE Okanagan Crush Pad Sage Hills Savard
Summerland
Oak
PEACHLAND Back Door
Solvero
Estate
Estate
SummerGate
Vineyards Estate Winery Saxon Fitzpatrick OKANAGAN LAKE SUMMERLAND PEACHLAND VALHALLA HELICOPTERS See ad on page 2. EXPERIENCE TOURS
Black Sage Vineyard Steller’s Jay Sparkling
Sumac Ridge
SUMMERLAND PEACHLAND Hainle
BC’s original estate winery, Sumac Ridge has been dedicated to producing quality wines from 100% BC grown grapes since its inception in 1979. Join us for a year-round selection of tastings and experiences from three remarkable brands, all available under one roof.
Sumac Ridge
For over 40 years, Sumac Ridge has set the standard for producing quality BC VQA wines. Our crisp whites and luscious reds are made with the wine drinker in mind –simple and consistently delicious!
Black Sage Vineyard
Big, bold and expressive – Black Sage Vineyard is known for its award-winning selection of Bordeaux-style red wines. There is no growing region in the world quite like the Black Sage Bench, and our wines are a true expression of this.
Steller’s Jay
Hand crafted in the Okanagan, Steller’s Jay Brut is the #1 VQA sparkling wine in BC. First produced 1989, Steller’s Jay was named in honour of the province’s official bird and crafted using the French Methode Classique. Steller’s Jay is perfect all for those moments that deserve to sparkle!
SUMAC
RIDGE ESTATE WINERY
17403 HWY 97N
Summerland, BC Phone: (250) 494-0451
TOURING NOTES
Wine #1 ::
Wine #2 ::
Unique Feature of the Winery ::
Notes ::
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 33
@ sumacridgewine @ stellersjaybrut @ blacksag
BC WINERIES
SUMMERLAND
8th Generation Vineyard
6807 Hwy 97, Summerland
Phone: (250) 494-1783 www.8thgeneration.com
Back Door Winery
9752 Jones Flat Road, Summerland
Phone: (250) 800-1199 www.backdoorwinery.com
BLACK SAGE VINEYARD
17403 HWY 97N, Summerland
Phone: (250) 494-0451 www.blacksagevineyard.ca Instagram: @blacksagewine A true expression of its unique terroir, Black Sage Vineyard wines represent the best of the Okanagan Valley. Big, bold and expressive - taste our collection of award-winning wines year-round at Sumac Ridge Estate Winery. See ad on page 33.
Dirty Laundry Vineyard
7311 Fiske Street, Summerland
Phone: (250) 494-8815 www.dirtylaundry.ca
Estate Thurn 5214 Monro Avenue, Summerland Phone: (250) 809-2077 www.bodega1117.com
Giant Head Winery
4307 Gartrell Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 460-0749 www.giantheadwinery.com
Heaven’s Gate Estate Winery 8001 Happy Valley Road, Summerland Phone: (778) 516-5505 www.heavensgatewinery.ca
Lightning Rock Winery 6611 Giants Head Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 488-7052 www.lightningrockwinery.com
LUNESSENCE WINERY & VINEYARD
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
5716 Gartrell Road, Summerland Phone: (778) 516-3131 Lunessencewinery.com Lunessence Winery & Vineyard honours a commitment to crafting fine wines which showcase the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley. We believe in sustainable, environmentally sensitive viticulture, and respecting the vineyard as a living and varied ecosystem. See ad on page 2.
OAK Estate Winery 20818 McDougald Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 485-2075 www.oakestatewinery.com
Okanagan Crush Pad Winery 16576 Fosbery Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 494-4445 www.okanagancrushpad.com
Sage Hills Vineyard 18555 Matsu Drive, Summerland Phone: (250) 276-4344 www.sagehillswine.com
Savard Wines 25200 Callan Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 494- 1926 www.savardvines.ca
Silk Scarf Winery 4917 Gartrell Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 494-7455 www.silkscarf-winery.com
Sleeping Giant Fruit Winery 6206 Canyon View Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 494-0377 www.sleepinggiantfruitwinery.ca
Solvero Wines 25585 Wildhorse Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 487-9891 www.solverowines.ca
STELLER’S JAY SPARKLING 17403 HWY 97N, Summerland Phone: (250) 494-0451 www.stellersjaywines.com
wine in BC. To make your day sparklefind us year-round at Sumac Ridge Estate Winery to enjoy tastings and seasonal pairings on the patio. See ad on page 33.
SUMAC RIDGE ESTATE WINERY 17403 HWY 97N, Summerland Phone: (250) 494-0451 www.sumacridge.com Instagram: @sumacridgewine Experience the best the Okanagan has to offer at our scenic Summerland location. Join us year-round to enjoy tastings of three iconic wine brands - Sumac Ridge Estate Winery, Black Sage Vineyard and Steller’s Jay. Learn more at sumacridge. com. See ad on page 33.
SummerGate Winery
11612 Morrow Avenue, Summerland Phone: (250) 583-9973 www.summergate.ca
Summerland Estate Winery 21606 Bridgeman Road, Summerland Phone: (250) 494-9323 www.summerlandestatewinery.com
Thornhaven Estates Winery 6816 Andrew Avenue, Summerland Phone: (250) 494-7778 www.thornhaven.com
PEACHLAND
First Estate Winery 5078 Cousins Pl, Peachland Not open to the public
Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards 697 Hwy 97 South, Peachland Phone: (250) 767-2768 www.fitzwine.com
Hainle Vineyards Estate Winery 5355 Trepanier Bench Road, Peachland Phone: (250) 767-2525 www.hainle.com
Saxon Winery at Karmont Farm 5950 Ehlers Road, Peachland Phone: (778) 754-7174 www.saxonwinery.com
34 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
SOUTH OKANAGAN: Summerland & Peachland
Haskap berries are a SUPER BERRY high in Antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Fiber, Potassium AND they TASTE GREAT! To learn more about our farm and our berries visit www.haskapfarms.com OKANAGAN GROWN HASKAP BERRIES With 3 times more antioxidant content than blueberries, higher vitamin C content than oranges and it’s punch of bright berry flavour Haskaps really are The Better Berry!
West Kelowna, Kelowna and Lake Country
Average Daily High Temperature July: 26-28C
Average Hours of Sunshine: 1949 / Average Annual Rainfall: 347 mm
Acreage: 1,609 / Soil Type: Sandy loam, clay and limestone
The Central Okanagan would be considered the urban hub of the Okanagan Valley with both the most populous city, Kelowna, and the fourth largest, West Kelowna, making up its core.
But don’t be fool by those numbers. The region is also rooted in a rich agricultural history. This is where wine growing got its start. Father Charles Pandosy is credited with setting up the first vineyards at the Obelate Mission near Kelowna back in 1859. The purpose was to make sacramental wines for his parish.
The first winery opened here in 1932 and back then nobody could predict what was to come. But these humble beginnings served as the catalyst for what is today a mecca for wine enthusiasts locally and globally. The region is home to a growing number of wineries, ranging in size from tiny cottagestyle to large-scale by Canadian standards. In addition to wine, several producers also have on site restaurant facilities offering worldclass culinary experiences.
The primary grapes grown here today are Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris and Riesling. There are more than a 1,000 acres of grapes planted, making up about 10 per cent of the total vineyard in the province.
As far as destinations go, the Central Okanagan has it all. The region includes three distinct communities – Kelowna and West Kelowna, separated by William Bennett Bridge at the
narrowest point of Okanagan Lake and Lake Country a short drive north of Kelowna. The area offers the scenic wonders of the great outdoors that will appeal to adventurers, with the convenience of an urban setting for those who crave modern conveniences.
It is here you will find miles of sandy beaches hugging the shores of Okanagan Lake that attract families and sun worshipers, as well as hiking and biking trails within minutes of a central core.
There are plenty of options for accommodations, shopping, fine dining, entertainment, arts and cultural activities, historical attractions and much more to be had on both sides of the lake. You’re also just a stone’s throw away from dozens of golf courses, trails and nature preserves, not to mention the ever beckoning lake.
The water is a liquid playground in this area with amenities for waterskiing and boarding, windsurfing, paddle boarding, parasailing, jetskiing, fishing and more. For those who love boating, there are scores of beaches, coves, and parks to explore that are accessible by watercraft. Maps are available identifying public areas, campsites and buoys in case you want to anchor on the water over night.
The weather is pretty ideal for these sorts of activities. The Central Okanagan averages a high of 1.5C in December and a high of almost 30C in July. Precipitation is quite low, averaging just over 400 mm annually.
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 35
:
CENTRAL OKANAGAN
OKANAGAN VALLEY
Common varieties grown: Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay
Locally Owned & Operated | oliviasonline.ca Orchard Park Mall & Downtown Kelowna | Penticton oliviasoilsandvinegars oliviasoilsvinegars Flavour forLife
Scorched Earth Martin’s Lane CedarCreek / Home Block Burnt Timber St. Hubertus Summerhill / Summerhill Organic Bistro Soma Craft Cidery Lounge & Farm Inn Crown & Thieves The Gallery Kuipers Peak at South Ridge Nagging Doubt Lakeshore Rd Chute Lake Rd Gordon Dr Dehart Rd BedfortRd Wallace Hill Rd VERNON KELOWNA Okanagan Lake Kalamalka Lake Wood Lake Peak Cellars Intrigue Gray Monk Ex Nihilo Arrowleaf Cellars Okanagan Centre Rd E Okanagan Centre Rd W Robinson Rd Davidson Rd Berry Rd Beaver Lake Rd Camp Rd Okanagan Centre Rd E Blind Tiger Holiday Park RV and Condo Resort Carrs Landing Rd Terrace View Rd 50th Parallel LAKE COUNTRY CENTRAL OKANAGAN : Lake Country CENTRAL OKANAGAN : West Kelowna & Kelowna PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER! VALHALLA HELICOPTERS See ad on page 2. EXPERIENCE TOURS Retail Golf Experience Tours Spa Real Estate Winery / Meadery / Cidery / Distillery Accommodation Restaurant
On the Kelowna side of the lake, you’ll find Okanagan Mountain Park, the site of the infamous fire that swept down the mountainside in August 2003, torching hundreds of homes, forest and parkland, even destroying many of the popular Myra Canyon railway trestles that were a hit with hikers and had survived Mother Nature’s wrath for more than 80 years.
Now new life has been injected in the park and it is once again a sought-after backcountry area for hiking, biking and camping. The canyon trestles have been restored and once again open for everyone’s outdoor enjoyment.
An interconnected corridor of parks follow Kelowna’s downtown waterfront, perfect for a leisurely sunset stroll after a romantic dinner out.
Less than an hour’s drive from downtown Kelowna, you’ll find Big White Ski Resort, a winter destination renowned for its champagne powder snow and family-friendly vibe. The west side offers skiing as well, with groomed cross-country trails nearby for those with an adventurous spirit.
West Kelowna embraces its agricultural spirit by promoting local growers with its Westside Farm Loop, encouraging visitors and residents to explore area farms, vineyards and nurseries. Just watch for the signs.
For the hardcore wine enthusiasts, there are several clusters of wineries located along the lake off Boucherie Road in West Kelowna and in the southeast part of Kelowna city and on the west facing slopes in Lake Country.
You’ll also find one of the oldest and largest wineries right in downtown Kelowna. In recent years, breweries and distilleries have been making a surge, promising an eclectic experience for the hospitality traveller.
A piece of the wine industry’s vital history still lives on with Father Pandosy’s Mission heritage site in Kelowna, where you’ll find his chapel still standing.
One dazzling attraction in the Central to North Okanagan is Kalamalka Lake, a large body of water on south side of Vernon, stretching down to Lake Country, where calcium carbonate deposits form sparkling crystals that reflect sunlight, creating breathtaking blue colours in the water from deep navy to vivid aquamarine. There are sandy beaches and stunning rock faces plus a 2,420-acre provincial park. It’s paradise for anyone who appreciates nature.
This is not an offering for sale. Such an offering can only be made with a disclosure statement. E. & O.E. MCKINLEYBEACH CA | 250-980-5555
BC WINERIES
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
CENTRAL OKANAGAN: West Kelowna, Kelowna and Lake Country
WEST KELOWNA
Beaumont Family Estate Winery 2775 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 769-1222 www.beaumontwinery.com
Black Swift Vineyards 2345 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna Phone: (778) 755-3275 www.blackswiftvineyards.com
Ciao Bella Winery
3252 Glencoe Road, West Kelowna Phone: (778) 754-3443 www.ciaobellawinery.com
Crown & Thieves 3887C Brown Road, West Kelowna Phone: (778) 754-6968 www.crownthieves.com
Frind Estate Winery 3725 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna Phone: (778) 754-1118 www.frindwinery.com
Gallery Winery, The 2233 Witt Rd, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 878-2116 www.facebook.com/thegallerywinery/
Grizzli Winery 2550 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 769-6789 www.grizzliwinery.com
Hatch, The 3225 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna Phone: (778) 755-6013 www.thehatchwines.com
INDIGENOUS WORLD WINERY
2218 Horizon Drive East, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 769-2824 www.indigenousworldwinery.com BC’s only 100% Indigenous-owned winery blends traditional Syilx culture with modern style. Visit the wine shop to take in spectacular views of Okanagan Lake while tasting award-winning wines.
Kalala Organic Estate Winery 3361 Glencoe Road, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 768-9700 www.kalalawines.ca
Little Straw Vineyards 2815 Ourtoland Road, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 769-0404 www.littlestraw.bc.ca
MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE
1730 Mission Hill Rd, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 768-6467 www.missionhillwinery.com
At Mission Hill Family Estate, a single philosophy has guided us since 1981the relentless pursuit of quality at every turn. See ad on page 2.
Mt. Boucherie Winery
829 Douglas Road, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 769-8803 www.mtboucheriewinery.com
Niche Wine Company 1901 Bartley Road, West Kelowna Phone: (778) 741-0114 www.nichewinecompany.com
Off the Grid Organic Winery
3623 Glencoe Road, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 878-0110 www.offthegridorganicwinery.com
Quails’ Gate Winery 3303 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna Phone: 250-769-4451 www.quailsgate.com
Rollingdale Winery 2306 Hayman Road, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 769-9224 www.rollingdale.ca
Tender Hope 350-1405 Stevens Road, West Kelowna Phone: (250) 899-0867 www.tenderhopewinery.com
Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2845 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna Phone: (778) 755-5550 www.volcanichillswinery.com
KELOWNA
ANCIENT HILL ESTATE WINERY 4918 Anderson Road, Kelowna, BC V1X 7V7 Phone: (250) 491 2766 www.ancienthillwinery.com European style winery with panoramic views of the valley. Wine shop and patio area. Located directly across from the Airport, in beautiful, rural Ellison.
Burnt Timber Estate Winery Phone: (250) 609-1814 www.burnttimberestatewinery.ca by appointment only
Camelot Vineyards 3489 East Kelowna Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 862-8873 www.camelotvineyards.ca
CEDARCREEK ESTATE WINERY 5445 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna Phone: (778) 738-1020 www.cedarcreek.bc.ca 2019 InterVin Winery of the Year. Deepen your appreciation for bright, expressive north Okanagan wines at our brand-new tasting room and year-round restaurant, Home Block at CedarCreek. Certified Organic since harvest 2019. See ad on page 39.
Frequency Winery 3210 Gulley Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 868-3737 www.frequencywinery.ca
Kitsch Wines 3330 Neid Road, Kelowna Phone: (778) 821-1955 www.kitschwines.ca
Martin’s Lane Winery 5437 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 707-2263 www.martinslanewinery.com Not open to the public
Mirabel Vineyards 3740 Hart Road. East Kelowna Phone: (250) 317-6811 www.mirabelvineyards.com
Nagging Doubt Winery 4513 Sallows Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 764-0610 www.naggingdoubt.com by appointment
Priest Creek Family Estate Winery 2555 Saucier Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 862-1010 www.priestcreekwinery.com
Ricco Bambino 101 - 1630 Pandosy Street, Kelowna Phone: (236) 420-2203 www.riccobambino.com
Sandhill Winery 1125 Richter Street, Kelowna Phone: (250) 979-4211 www.sandhillwines.ca
Scorched Earth Winery 6006 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 717-7994 www.scorchedearthwinery.ca by appointment only
Spearhead Winery 3950 Spiers Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 763-7777 www.spearheadwinery.com
SPERLING VINEYARDS 1405 Pioneer Road, Kelowna Phone: (778) 478-0260 www.sperlingvineyards.com
Sperling Vineyards has been four generations in the making. The high elevation slopes & mineral rich soils on the east benches of Kelowna come to life via our old vines & carefully crafted wines. Certified Organic since 2017. See ad on page 39.
ST. HUBERTUS & OAK BAY ESTATE WINERY
5205 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 764-7888 www.st-hubertus.bc.ca
Located along beautiful lake Okanagan the historic 80 acre Gebert family vineyard (transition to organic) grows world class Riesling and Pinot Noir wines. Experience this laid-back estate winery minutes from downtown Kelowna. Sorry no groups over 6 guests. See ad on page 39.
SUMMERHILL PYRAMID WINERY
4870 Chute Lake Road, Kelowna
Phone: (250) 764-8000 Toll Free: 1-800-667-3538 www.summerhill.bc.ca
Wines made organically and biodynamically with love, aged in a pyramid built with sacred geometry and aligned to the stars. The portfolio of organic wines has garnered Summerhill Pyramid Winery international acclaim, including being named ‘Canadian Wine Producer of the Year’ by the IWSC in London, England. See ad on page 39.
38 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
LAKESHORE WINE ROUTE
sperlingvineyards.com sperlingvineyards
tantalus.ca tanta luswine
CEDARCREEK ESTATE WINERY
2019 InterVin Winery of the Year. Deepen your appreciation for bright, expressive north Okanagan wines at our brand-new tasting room and year-round restaurant, Home Block at CedarCreek. Certified Organic since harvest 2019.
SPERLING VINEYARDS has been four generations in the making. The high elevation slopes & mineral rich soils on the east benches of Kelowna come to life via our old vines & carefully crafted wines. Certified Organic since 2017.
ST. HUBERTUS & OAK BAY ESTATE WINERY
Located along beautiful lake Okanagan the historic 80 acre Gebert family vineyard (transition to organic) grows world class Riesling and Pinot Noir wines. Experience this laid-back estate winery minutes from downtown Kelowna. Sorry no groups over 6 guests.
SUMMERHILL PYRAMID WINERY
Wines made organically and bio-dynamically with love, aged in a pyramid built with sacred geometry and aligned to the stars. The portfolio of organic wines has garnered Summerhill Pyramid Winery international acclaim, including being named ‘Canadian Wine Producer of the Year’ by the IWSC in London, England.
TANTALUS VINEYARDS is focused on crafting wines of exceptional quality that express the unique terroir of their historic, old vineyard. Enjoy stunning lake and vineyard views while tasting wine in BC’s first LEED-certified winery.
TOURING NOTES
summerhill.bc.ca summerhillwine
st-hubertus.bc.ca sthubertuswine cedarcreek.bc.ca cedarcreekwine
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 39
Come
the
with us!
spend
day
www.lakeshorewineries.ca lakeshorewines Tastings, tours and dining, all only a short, scenic drive from downtown Kelowna.
TANTALUS VINEYARDS
1670 Dehart Road, Kelowna
Phone: (250) 764-0078 www.tantalus.ca
Tantalus Vineyards is focused on crafting wines of exceptional quality that express the unique terroir of their historic, old vineyard. Enjoy stunning lake and vineyard views while tasting wine in BC’s first LEED-certified winery. See ad on page 39.
Vibrant Vine Winery, The 3240 Pooley Road, Kelowna Phone: (778) 478-4153 www.thevibrantvine.com
VIEW WINERY, THE #1-2287 Ward Road, Kelowna Phone: (250) 860-0742 www.theviewwinery.com
The View Winery and Wards Cider, nestled amid rolling orchards and vines, minutes from downtown Kelowna. Just look for the Red Shoe! Open daily; please visit our website for hours of operation.
MEADERY
Meadow Vista Honey Wines
3975 June Springs Road, SE Kelowna
Phone: (250) 862-2337 www.meadowvista.ca
CIDERIES
SOMA CRAFT CIDERY
4485 Sallows Road, South East Kelowna Phone: (250) 764-2148 www.somacidery.com
Come visit us at our farm based cidery: sample our award winning ciders, grab a picnic under the trees, or enjoy a bite
to eat and glass of cider from our locally inspired menu in the Soma Cider Lounge. Be sure to leave enough time to take a stroll under the pine trees and to say hello to the alpacas that share the property with us here at Soma.
WARDS CIDER
#1-2287 Ward Road, Kelowna Phone: (250)860-0742 www.wardscider.com
The View Winery and Wards Cider, nestled amid rolling orchards and vines, minutes from downtown Kelowna. Just look for the Red Shoe! Open daily; please visit our website for hours of operation.
DISTILLERIES
OKANAGAN SPIRITS CRAFT DISTILLERY
267 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna Phone: (778) 484-5174 www.okanaganspirits.com kelowna@okanaganspirits.com
The Province’s original craft distillery, Okanagan Spirits invites you to visit their downtown Kelowna Prohibition Edition boutique distillery and experience firsthand the art of craft distilling. On-site they produce award winning products that include Gin, Liqueurs, and Absinthe. Tours and tastings available all year round, or relax and enjoy a cocktail at their Barrel Room patio and lounge. See ad on page 45.
URBAN DISTILLERIES & WINERY 402–1979 Old Okanagan Hwy. West Kelowna Phone: (778) 478-0939 www.urban-distilleries.com
Urban Distilleries & Winery is an awardwinning small batch distillery and winery located prominently on the Wine Trail in West Kelowna. See ad on page 35.
LAKE COUNTRY
50th Parallel Estate 17101 Terrace View Road, Lake Country Phone: (250) 766-3408 www.50thparallel.com
Arrowleaf Cellars
1574 Camp Road, Lake Country Phone: (250) 766 2992 www.arrowleafcellars.com
Blind Tiger Vineyards 11014 Bond Road, Lake Country Phone: (250) 766-0622 www.blindtigervineyards.ca
Ex Nihilo
1525 Camp Rd., Lake Country Phone: (250) 766-5522 www.exnihilovineyards.com
Gray Monk Estate Winery
1055 Camp Road, Lake Country Phone: (250) 766-3168 www.graymonk.com
Intrigue Wines
2291 Goldie Rd, Lake Country Phone: (250) 980-3233 www.intriguewines.ca
Peak Cellars
2290 Goldie Road, Lake Country Phone: (250) 766-9922 www.peakcellars.com
40 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
THE GRILL AT BLACK MOUNTAIN
575 Black Mountain Drive, Kelowna / Phone: (778) 753-1890 / www.blackmountaingolf.ca/dining/ Huge patio and a pub-style atmosphere, outstanding food and friendly service. Awesome burgers, the best beef dip in town, 6 popular salads and much more!
HOME BLOCK AT CEDARCREEK ESTATE WINERY See ad on page 39.
5445 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna / Phone: (250) 980-4663 / www.cedarcreek.bc.ca
Home Block has simplicity at its heart, we celebrate homemade ingredients and seasonal produce whenever possible. We feature small plates, family style and individual entrees. Please visit www.cedarcreek.bc.ca for our seasonal hours of operation.
SOMA CRAFT CIDERY
4485 Sallows Road, South East Kelowna / Phone: (250) 764-2148 / www.somacidery.com
Come visit us at our farm based cidery: sample our award winning ciders, grab a picnic under the trees, or enjoy a bite to eat and glass of cider from our locally inspired menu in the Soma Cider Lounge. Be sure to leave enough time to take a stroll under the pine trees and to say hello to the alpacas that share the property with us here at Soma.
SUMMERHILL ORGANIC BISTRO @ SUMMERHILL
PYRAMID
WINERY See ad on page 39.
4870 Chute Lake Road, Kelowna / Phone: (250) 764-8000 Toll Free: 1-800-667-3538 / www.summerhill.bc.ca Featuring seasonal wine paired cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere, we draw from the bounty of regional organic farmers, including an onsite, half-acre biodynamic vegetable patch.
TERRACE RESTAURANT AT MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE See ad on page 2.
1730 Mission Hill Rd, West Kelowna / Phone: (250) 768-6467 / www.missionhillwinery.com/terrace-restaurant/
A testament to this region, the Terrace Restaurant embraces what is grown around us. Like our wines, our culinary practices are rooted within the valley. Locality, seasonality, simplicity, and resourcefulness inspire every dish we serve you.
WHERE TO STAY
HOLIDAY PARK RV & CONDO RESORT
415 Commonwealth Rd, Kelowna / Phone: (250) 766-4255 holiday@sweetlife.com / www.sweetlife.com
Enjoy a relaxing holiday or weekend getaway in a luxury condo or full-service RV site. Seasonal specials and numerous amenities in this destination resort, just minutes from Kelowna International Airport! See ad on page 6.
SOMA CRAFT CIDERY
4485 Sallows Road, South East Kelowna
Phone: (250) 764-2148 / www.somacidery.com
Come visit us at our farm based cidery: sample our award winning ciders, grab a picnic under the trees, or enjoy a bite to eat and glass of cider from our locally inspired menu in the Soma Cider Lounge. Be sure to leave enough time to take a stroll under the pine trees and to say hello to the alpacas that share the property with us here at Soma.
EXPERIENCE TOURS
VALHALLA HELICOPTERS
1100 Stevens Road, West Kelowna
Phone: (250) 769-1486 www.valhallahelicopters.com
This is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines a scenic helicopter tour around the Okanagan with stops at your choice of several participating wineries to enjoy the beverage that has made the valley so well-known. Touring the Okanagan wineries is so much more fun when you arrive in style! See ad on page 2.
SPA SERVICES
BEYOND WRAPTURE DAY SPA
Coast Capri Hotel - Kelowna / Phone: 1-866-548-8899 www.beyondwrapture.com / Celebrating 29 years in business! Choose a delightful adventure in pampering at Beyond Wrapture Day Spa! We guarantee you will leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to welcome your world! See ad on page 41.
REAL ESTATE
DILWORTH HOMES
206 - 2365 Gordon Drive, Kelowna Phone: (250) 762-9999 / www.dilworthhomes.com Building your home, your way in the Okanagan Valley for more than 30 years. See ad on page 63.
GREEN SQUARE VERT 3630 Mission Springs Drive, Kelowna / Phone: (250) 826-3623 Email: jgriffith@troikagroup.ca / greensquare.ca Live the ultimate Kelowna lifestyle at Green Square Vert. Located in the heart of sought-after Lower Mission, choose from meticulously designed condos, townhomes, or penthouses. See ad on page 40.
MCKINLEY BEACH 3375 Lavender Lane, Kelowna Phone: (250) 980-5555 / www.mckinleybeach.ca Situated within 872 acres of natural Okanagan landscape, McKinley Beach is Kelowna’s premier lakefront community. See ad on page 37.
WATER STREET BY THE PARK 1660 Water Street, Kelowna BC, V1Y 8T8 250-763-7275 (PARK) / www.waterstbythepark.com An iconic residential development in vibrant downtown Kelowna overlooking Okanagan Lake, Water Street by the Park is designed for you to love where you live. See ad on page 64.
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 41
WHERE TO EAT
Coast Capri Hotel, Kelowna phone: 250.448.8899 toll free: 1.866.548.8899 Check our Webpage for specials! www.beyondwrapture.com #1inVinotherapy Canada Recapture Your Senses®
Get your chip and sip on.... we have compiled a list of golf courses located in and around BC Wine country to help plan your activity schedule. Book your t-time in advance and look for golf packages through tour operators and hotels.
APRÉS GOLF: You will find that most golf course restaurants carry an excellent selection of BC wines. Plan a wine tasting or two at a nearby winery to cap off the day!
SOUTH OKANAGAN
Fairview Mountain Golf Club
Nk Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course
Osoyoos Golf Course
Sonora Dunes Golf Course
Twin Lakes Golf Course
CENTRAL OKANAGAN
BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB
575 Black Mountain Drive, Kelowna Phone: (250) 765-6890
www.blackmountaingolf.ca
2018 PGA of BC Golf Facility of the Year. 18-holes worth of breathtaking Okanagan landscape and a signature island green. “Score Golf - Top 59 Value Canadian Public Course.”
Gallagher’s Canyon Golf Course
The Harvest Golf Club
Kelowna Springs Golf Course
Okanagan Golf Club (Quail and Bear)
Shadow Ridge Golf Club
Shannon Lake Golf Course
Sunset Ranch Golf and Country Club
Tower Ranch Golf Course
Two Eagles Golf Course & Academy
NORTH OKANAGAN
Predator Ridge Resort
The Rise Golf Club
Spallumcheen Golf & Country Club
Vernon Golf & Country Club
SHUSWAP
Hyde Mountain Salmon Arm Golf Club
Shuswap Lake Estates Golf & CC Shuswap National
Talking Rock Golf Course
THOMPSON
Big Horn Golf & Country Club
The Dunes at Kamloops
Eaglepoint Golf Resort
Kamloops Golf & Country Club
Rivershore Golf Links
Talking Rock Golf Tobiano Golf Course
VANCOUVER COAST & MOUNTAINS
Big Sky Golf Club
Chateau Whistler Golf Club
Furry Creek Golf & Country Club
Mayfair Lakes Golf & Country Club
Morgan Creek Golf Course
Nicklaus North Golf Course
Northview Golf & Country Club
Westwood Plateau Golf & Country Club
Whistler Golf Course
VANCOUVER ISLAND
Arbutus Ridge
Bear Mountain Resort
Crown Isle Resort
Fairwinds Golf Club
Highland Pacific Golf Course
Olympic View Golf Club
Pheasant Glen Golf Resort
Storey Creek
The Valley Course
KOOTENAY ROCKIES
Balfour Golf Course
Castlegar Golf Club
Christina Lake golf Club
Creston Golf Club
Granite Pointe Golf Course
Kokanee Springs Golf Resort
Redstone Golf Resort
Rossland-Trail Golf Course
42 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
#ExploreVernon MARTEN
PHOTOGRAPHY RATIO COFFEE & PASTRY BX PRESS CIDERY PLANET BEE SPARKLING HILL ACTIVATE YOUR TASTE BUDS For more treats to tantalize your taste buds, visit tourismvernon.com OKANAGAN SPIRITS PREDATOR RIDGE
GOLF BC WINE REGIONS
BREWPUB/YANA CRANE
While the South Okanagan can serve up blistering heat in the summer, visitors to the North Okanagan will appreciate a more tempered climate while still offering up long, blissful days of sunshine.
The area is very scenic with gorgeous lakes, mountains, woodlands and grasslands. And there are terrific little pockets of wineries producing highly-acclainmed wines for all
The City of Vernon is located on the northern tips of Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake, making it a major draw for boating and water sport enthusiasts. But it is also surrounded by mountains and pastoral landscape with a strong connection to ranching and food production.
One of the products the area is well known for is cheese. There are several artisan cheese
NORTH OKANAGAN: Vernon, Armstrong, Enderby & Grindrod OKANAGAN VALLEY Common Grape Varieties: Riesling, Pinot Noir, Ortega, Pinot Gris, Siegerrebe Average Daily High Temperature (July): 26C Average Hours of Sunshine: 2026 / Average Annual Rainfall: 333 mm Soil Type: Gravelly, Sandy loam, limestone and clay 3475 Smith Drive, Armstrong 1.888.633.8899 villagecheese.com
Ovino
Edge of the Earth
BC WINERIES
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
NORTH OKANAGAN: Vernon, Armstrong, Enderby and Grindrod
VERNON
MEADERY
Planet Bee Honey Farm & Honeymoon
Meadery
5011 Bella Vista Road, Vernon Phone: (250) 542-8088 www.PlanetBee.com
DISTILLERY
OKANAGAN SPIRITS
CRAFT DISTILLERY
5204 24th Street, Vernon Phone: (250) 549-3120 vernon@okanaganspirits.com www.okanaganspirits.com Western Canada’s largest and original craft distillery is an attraction not to be missed while visiting the city. The distillery offers tours and tastings all year round with an award winning portfolio including Whisky, Gin, Vodka, Absinthe, Fruit Liqueurs and Fruit Brandies. Cocktails also available at our Barrel Room lounge and patio. See ad on page 45.
ARMSTRONG
Edge of the Earth Vineyards
4758 Gulch Road, Armstrong Phone: (250) 546-2164 www.edgeearth.ca by appointment
ENDERBY & GRINDROD
Baccata Ridge Winery
184 Monks Road, Grindrod
Phone: (250) 838-2157 www.baccataridgewinery.ca
WATERSIDE VINEYARD AND WINERY
70 Waterside Road, Enderby Phone: (250) 838-9757 www.watersidewinery.com Waterside Vineyard and Winery is a farmbased hidden gem along the Shuswap River, creating cool climate wines for every palate, with a large selection of reds, whites and rosés. See ad on pages 48, 49
INFORMATION SERVICES
TOURISM VERNON
Phone: (250) 542-1415 Toll Free 1-800-665-0795 info@tourismvernon.com www.tourismvernon.com Wineries just 20 minutes to the south of Vernon, in Lake Country along the Scenic Sip Trail and to the north in Armstrong and Shuswap. See ad on page 42
RETAIL
THE VILLAGE CHEESE COMPANY
3475 Smith Drive, Armstrong Phone: (250) 546-8651 Toll free: 1-888-633-8899 www.villagecheese.com We are a small family-owned cheese company who take great pride in making artisan cheese. Our cheeses are made from local whole milk from the Okanagan Valley and only natural ingredients. Perfect match with Okanagan’s finest wines. See ad on page 43.
44 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Okanagan Lake VERNON ENDERBY
GRINDROD
PLEASE
RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER!
ARMSTRONG The Village Cheese Company Waterside Vineyard & Winery
Baccata Ridge 27 St Pleasant Valley Rd Bella Vista Rd 43rd Ave 48th Ave Silver Star Rd BX Rd 25th Ave Kalamalka Lake Rd Honeymoon Meadery Okanagan Spirits
TOUR
Winery / Meadery /
/
Retail
NORTH OKANAGAN : Vernon, Armstrong, Enderby & Grindrod
Cidery
Distillery
Western Canada’s Original Farm-toFlask craft distillery invites you to come and experience the exceptional. Specializing in small batch production, visitors are encouraged to visit either of their elegant distilling operations for a uniquely Okanagan tour and tasting. For almost 2 decades the distillery has been producing World-Class spirits and liqueurs made from 100% BC grains and fruit. With a portfolio of over 30 handcrafted alcohols, spanning Whisky, Gin, Vodka, Liqueurs, Fruit Brandies, Aquavit and Absinthe; there truly is something for everyone.
Okanagan Spirits is recognized as a World-Class Distillery, and has three times been awarded “Distillery of the Year” at the World Spirits Awards in Europe. The Family run distillery prides itself in truly celebrating the local terroir in everything it creates. Visiting either distillery is an experience not to be missed while visiting the Okanagan Valley. To view a short video presentation, log on to their website or contact the distillery directly for further details.
OKANAGAN SPIRITS
5204 24th Street, Vernon, BC Phone: (250) 549-3120 vernon@okanaganspirits.com 267 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC Phone: (778) 484-5174
kelowna@okanaganspirits.com www.okanaganspirits.com
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 45
TOURING NOTES Notes ::: Whisky, Gin, Vodka, Liqueurs, Brandies, Absinthe BOTH DISTILLERIES OPEN YEAR ROUND FOR TOURS & TASTINGS 5204 24th Street, Vernon / 250.549.3120 267 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna / 778.484.5174 www.okanaganspirits.com BC's Original Farm-to-Flask Distillery
SHUSWAP
Average Daily High Temperature (July): 26C
Average Hours of Sunshine: 1802 / Average Annual Rainfall: 469 mm
Acreage: 100 / Soil Type: Silt, clay, sandy loam
If you’ve ever been to the Shuswap area of British Columbia, you’re well aware that its generous waterways make for a boater’s paradise.
Indeed, the Shuswap Lake system boasts more than 1,000 kilometres of pristine shoreline and is home to the largest houseboat fleet in the country.
But did you also know that the area is starting to make a name for itself in wine?
The Shuswap may be further north than some wine producers would consider ideal, but it enjoys a unique micro-climate that results in fresh, fruit-forward wines with plenty of character. Today, there are more than 100 acres of grape vineyard supplying grapes to almost a dozen wineries stretching as far north as Calista.
This region is an ecological gem. Amid this natural habitat you’ll find smatterings of grass-roots communities with charming cafes and boutiques and an active and inspiring artist culture. Its overall population is small, but swells in the summer with tourists attracted to the region for houseboating, camping, fishing and for the August music extravaganza known as the Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival.
Those looking to escape from it all will love the numerous park campgrounds where exploration abounds through trails along the forested Shuswap Lake shoreline.
Another draw is the Adams River salmon run in October, which presents the unique opportunity to combine a wine tour with viewing millions of sockeye salmon returning for the spawn.
Nature lovers will appreciate the area’s waterfront trails and boardwalks. Margaret Falls features a rock chasm and offers an enchanted forest feel with a unique ecosystem of flowers, trees and shrubs.
The Shuswap has a deeply rooted farming community and food enthusiasts are invited to do a farm tour that also includes the charming wineries of the area. It’s a terrific way to explore the regional food culture.
INFORMATION SERVICES
SHUSWAP TOURISM
555 Harbourfront Drive NE, Salmon Arm
Phone: (250) 833-5906 info@shuswaptourism.ca www.shuswaptourism.ca See ad on page 48, 49.
46 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Salmon Arm, Tappen & Celista
Common Grape Varieties: Marechal Foch, Ortega, Siegerrebe, Gewurztraminer, Kerner
Darren Robinson/Shuswap Tourism/Thompson Okanagan
ARMSTRONG GRINDROD SORENTO CHASE CELISTA Edge of the Earth Ovino Baccata Ridge Celista Estate Winery Waterside Vineyard & Winery Okanagan Lake Shuswap Lake Little Shuswap Lake Shuswap Lake Mara Lake VERNON ENDERBY SALMON ARM TAPPEN Larch Hills Marionette Shuswap Tourism Recline Ridge Sunnybrae Vineyard SHUSWAP : Salmon Arm, Tappen & Celista PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER!
CRAFTED FROM LOCAL GRAPES, WIND YOUR WAY THROUGH OUR WINERIES SHUSWAP SECRETS TASTE OUR SPIRIT 2319 Beguelin Rd Celista | 250.955.8600 celistawine.com 2540 40th Street NE Salmon Arm | 250.832.7702 marionettewinery.com 3849 Sunnybrae Canoe Pt Rd Tappen | 250.835.8373 sunnybraewinery.com Marionette Vineyards and Winery 110 Timms Rd Salmon Arm | 250.832.0155 larchhillswinery.com 2640 Skimikin Rd Tappen | 250.835.2212 reclineridgewinery.com 70 Waterside Rd Enderby | 250.838.9757 watersidewinery.com PHOTO: BC WINES shuswaptourism.ca
CELISTA ESTATE WINERY
Double gold-medal winning winery. Open daily from 10:30 to 5:30 May to October. Located nine kilometres past Scotch Creek Provincial Park, on the North Shore of Shuswap Lake. Free wine tasting. Enjoy a glass of wine with gourmet crackers, cheeses, chutneys and pepperonis on our beautiful garden patio overlooking Shuswap Lake. Guided tours Wednesdays and Saturdays at 11 am or by appointment other days.
LARCH HILLS WINERY
Discover the finest wines, produced at the highest elevation winery in Canada. We have a patio where people can enjoy the breathtaking view of the valley. Book a tour or take a selfguided tour. Come and Enjoy the great wines and hospitality. Open daily 9-5 year round. Live music on long weekends.
MARIONETTE WINERY
Come see us this summer! Marionette is the only winery within the city limits of Salmon Arm just minutes from downtown and Canoe Beach. Our summer hours are April and October: Thursday-Friday from 12-5pm and June, July, August and September daily from 12-5pm. We have a food truck serving on our patio Friday and Saturday nights until 9pm and live music on our ‘Sangria Saturdays’ which run throughout the summer.
RECLINE RIDGE VINEYARDS & WINERY
Recline Ridge is a family-owned winery in the heart of the Shuswap. Enjoy our hospitality and award-winning wines. Our Wine Shop, Tasting Bar, and licensed patio are open daily, from April 1st to October 31st. Check our website for hours.
SUNNYBRAE VINEYARDS & WINERY
We invite you to taste our award winning, BC VQA Estate wines on our Lakeview patio overlooking Shuswap Lake, at the base of Bastion Mountain. Better yet, stay for a glass of wine and charcuterie. Dog and child friendly patio and vineyard. Open daily May to October, possibly longer. Local arts and crafts for sale in the wine shop. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
WATERSIDE VINEYARD & WINERY
Waterside Vineyard and Winery was established in 2014 and thrives today as a farm-based winery, along the Shuswap River, hosting desirable wines, unique in their flavour palates. These cool climate wines are rich in flavour and distinction, bringing characteristics of the landscape into each carefully crafted wine. They have truly become wines you love to love. Join us for a tasting and experience how raising a farm within the vineyard has enriched our land, our vines, and our wines.
TOURING NOTES
Notes :::
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 49
BC Wine Institute
THOMPSON VALLEY
Wine producers in the Thompson Valley are not afraid to push the boundaries. Indeed, they are teetering outside the comfort zone climate-wise when it comes to growing grapes.
But these gamblers have rolled the dice and come out on top, big time. The Thompson Valley may be the most northerly area within BC Wine Country, but it enjoys more than 2,000 hours of sunshine annually and often records some of the warmest temperatures in Canada.
Today, there are just over 100 acres planted supplying grapes to a handful of wineries, mostly around Kamloops, which makes up only one per cent of the total vineyard in BC. But the potential is real and enthusiasts can count on a personalized experience and share in the passion and determination of the pioneers who are undaunted by any perceived challenges.
After all, when wine producing began in BC decades ago, there were plenty of naysayers and few – even those who took the plunge – predicted it would reach the level of excellence it has achieved today. The vintners
who set the course were considered to be risk takers and mavericks at best; foolhardy and doomed at worst – but they proved the critics wrong and history speaks for itself.
There’s a lot to love about the Thompson Valley. At its core is the City of Kamloops, the second largest metropolitan area in the BC interior. But it’s an easy escape from urban life as the area is teeming with valleys and plateaus formed by volcanic land masses and rivers. Anchored by the Thompson River, a visit to a golf course or winery can be effortlessly paired with a fishing trip, a nature walk or boating expedition.
Here you’ll find Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and Wells Gray Provincial Park, which features Helmcken Falls, higher than Niagara and plunging a breathtaking 141 metres down a narrow canyon.
Another attraction that’s sure not to escape your notice are the stunning rock formations known as the Hoodoos. The area also offers alpine skiing at a world-class resort known as Sun Peaks.
50 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Kamloops
Common Grape Varieties: Riesling, Marechal Foch, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay Average Daily High Temperature (July): 29C Average Hours of Sunshine: 2080 / Average Annual Rainfall: 224 mm Acreage: 90 / Soil Type: Bedrock, gravel, loam, silt, sandy clay
Destination BC/Andrew Strain
BC WINERIES
THOMPSON VALLEY: Kamloops
KAMLOOPS
HARPER’S TRAIL ESTATE WINERY
2761 Shuswap Road, Kamloops
Phone: (250) 573-5855 www.harperstrail.com
Located along the rolling hills of the South Thompson River, Kamloops’ first winery is situated against the dramatic backdrop of iconic hoodoos. The diverse property features sage covered hills, a natural spring and a bed of limestone and is a playground to an abundance of wildlife. The wines, with elegant minerality and crisp acidity, reflect the Thompson Valley region. Visit today and taste the untamed land of Harper’s Trail. See ad on page 52, 53.
MONTE CREEK RANCH WINERY
2420 Miners Bluff Road, Monte Creek
Phone: (250) 573-5399 Toll free: 1-855-633-WINE (9463) www.montecreek.com
WHERE TO STAY
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
Monte Creek Winery’s wines, unique beauty and family-friendly hospitality are a welcome stop along the TransCanada Highway where visitors can enjoy a wine tasting and shop for local products. The stunning river valley and vineyard views are visible from the tasting room, picnic area, and patio of their seasonal Terrace restaurant, which serves regionally inspired meals alfresco style. Voted Kamloops’ Best Winery two years running, Monte Creek is definitely not one to pass up on. See ad on page 52, 53.
PRIVATO VINEYARD AND WINERY
5505 Westsyde Road, Kamloops
Phone: (250) 579-8739 www.privato.ca
The inspiration behind the name Privato comes from the Italian word meaning private which aptly describes the wineries idyllic setting. A hidden gem in the heart of BC’s exciting Thompson Valley wine region, Privato is a family-
BEST WESTERN PLUS KAMLOOPS HOTEL
660 Columbia Street West, Kamloops
Phone: (250) 374-7878 Toll Free: 1-877-302-7878 www.bestwesternkamloops.com
Kamloops Award Winning Eco-Friendly Hotel! Centrally located with Shopping and Restaurants within walking distance. Indoor saltwater pool and hot tub, free breakfast, Fibre Wi-Fi network, 42” HDTV and fitness center are some of what you will experience along with our “We Care Clean” Covid protocols. Along with our industry leading “Green” programs, making this the place to stay in Kamloops while experiencing the new Kamloops Wine Trail. See ad on page 6.
owned boutique winery dedicated to the production of premium Burgundian styled wines. Take time to savour the idyllic setting as you sip a glass of wine and enjoy a picnic in our peaceful wine garden. See ad on page 52, 53.
Sagewood Winery 589 Meadow Lark Road, Kamloops Phone: (250) 573-1921 www.sagewoodwinery.ca
CIDERY
WOODWARD CIDER CO.
5505 Westsyde Road, Kamloops Phone: (250) 579-8739 www.woodwardciderco.ca
Kamloops’ first craft cider located on the family farm adjacent to Privato Vineyard and Winery and the orchard. Kick back, relax, play a game of cornhole as you sip through our tasty all-natural craft ciders.
INFORMATION SERVICES
TOURISM KAMLOOPS
1290 West Trans-Canada Highway, Kamloops
Phone: (250) 372-8000 Toll Free 1-800-662-1994 www.tourismkamloops.com
Located in the heart of British Columbia’s Thompson Region, Kamloops is far more than just a small town. In Kamloops, everyone gets to play like a local and experience life a little off the beaten path. Here, spontaneity reigns and visitors are rewarded for following their hearts, not an itinerary. This is a place where every street and trail are yours to explore, and where wrong turns often lead to the greatest discoveries. So come as you are, try something new, and let curiosity be your compass. See ad on page 52, 53.
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 51
Kamloops Airport
Harper’s Trail Estate Winery Sagewood Winery
Privato Vineyard and Winery Woodward Cider Co.
Victoria St
Summit Dr Hugh Allan Dr Rogers Way
PaulLakeRd KAMLOOPS Valleyview Dr Lafarge Rd
Tranquille Rd 8th St Ord Rd Halston Ave Shuswap Rd E
Monte Creek Ranch Estate Winery
Best Western Plus Kamloops Hotel Tourism Kamloops
Westsyde Rd Columbia St
PLEASE
RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED
THOMPSON VALLEY: Kamloops
TOUR
DRIVER!
Winery / Cidery Accommodation
HARPER’S TRAIL ESTATE WINERY
Kamloops’ first winery is located along the South Thompson River among a diverse property featuring rolling hills of sage and grass, limestone, hoodoos, wildlife, and a natural spring. The wines, with minerality and crisp acidity, reflect the emerging wine region. Visit today and taste the untamed land.
2761 Shuswap Road, Kamloops 250-573-5855 harperstrail.com
TOURING NOTES Notes :::
MONTE CREEK WINERY
Monte Creek Winery’s wines, unique beauty and family-friendly hospitality are a welcome stop along the TransCanada Highway where visitors can enjoy a wine tasting and shop for local products. The stunning river valley and vineyard views are visible from the tasting room, picnic area, and patio of their seasonal Terrace restaurant, which serves regionally inspired meals alfresco style. Voted Kamloops’ Best Winery two years running, Monte Creek is definitely not one to pass up on.
2420 Miner’s Bluff Road, Monte Creek 250-573-5399 montecreek.com
PRIVATO VINEYARD & WINERY
A hidden gem in the heart of BC’s Thompson Valley wine region, Privato is a family-owned boutique winery crafting among the best in BC small lot Burgundian styled wines. Reserve a personalized barrel room tasting, stroll through the spectacular event gardens or simply savour the idyllic setting as you sip a glass in the wine garden patio. Complimenting the family farm and right next door to the winery is the new Woodward Cider Co. where brothers, Ben, Adam and Tim invite you to sample a tasty flight of Kamloops’ first craft cider. 5505 Westsyde Road, Kamloops 250-579-8739 privato.ca
For more information on wine tours and accommodations visit tourismkamloops.com
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 53
LILLOOET
Located on the southern tip of the Cariboo Chilcotin at an elevation of 230 metres, Lillooet may not immediately be on the lips of wine enthusiasts. But the area enjoys long, hot, dry summers not unlike the Okanagan Valley, making it ripe for grape growing and the future is promising.
Situated along the Fraser River, the community was formerly known as Cayoosh Flats. Vineyards were first planted relatively recently in 2004 and today there are about 30
acres of grapes supplying two wineries, the first of which opened in 2011.
Despite its small size, Lilloett has been recognized by the BC Wine Authority as a Geographical Indication in its own right.
It’s worth a visit to this teeny wine region as it is in close proximity to Whistler-Blackcomb and an easy drive to Vancouver. It offers unparalleled backcountry adventures, a farmer’s market, agritourism tours and golf.
Fraser River
LILLOOET
SetonLake
FraserRiver
Cliff and Gorge Vineyards
Fort Berens Estate Winery
Texas Creek Rd
Lytton Lillooet Hwy
BC WINERIES
Grape Varieties: Riesling, Pinor Noir, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay.
Daily High Temperature (July): 28C Annual Hours of Sunshine: 1852 / Average Annual Rainfall: 322 mm Acreage: 51 / Soil Type: Silt, clay, loamy sand 54 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER!
LILLOOET Cliff and Gorge Vineyards and Winery 18450 Texas Creek Road, Lillooet www.cliffandgorge.com Fort Berens Estate Winery Ltd. 1881 Highway 99 North, Lillooet Phone: 1-866-956-7768 www.fortberens.ca
Common
Average
Destination BC/Michael Bednar
FRASER VALLEY & GREATER VANCOUVER
Common Grape Varieties: Siegerrebe, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Bacchus
Average Daily High Temperature (July): 21C
Annual Hours of Sunshine: 1886 / Average Annual Rainfall: 1537 mm
Grape Acreage: 155 / Soil: Silty and high in organic matter
When it comes to growing grapes, the Fraser Valley has some of the finest soil around.
Indeed, this is a farming community like no other. More than half of British Columbia’s agricultural industry is located here, drawn by its silty dirt high in organic matter. It makes sense that wine would gain a foothold in this lush landscape.
The farming core in the Valley is nestled in a deep basin surrounded by soaring mountains and dense forest. It is only about an hour to downtown Vancouver, but you won’t feel much of the city’s influence here. It’s a grassroots and hard-working community with a much slower pace than the bustling city to the west.
There are more than two dozen wineries considered to be part of the Fraser Valley industry. While the bulk of the 200 acres of
grapes are being grown in the farming belt, the actual wineries are scattered between Chilliwack and Richmond, with several actually in the urban Metro Vancouver region.
Surrounding farmers’ fields and vineyards are rugged peaks, dense forest and pristine waterways – terrain that offer travellers great outdoor adventure opportunities such as mountain climbing, salmon fishing, white water rafting, zip lining, biking and hiking. There are numerous attractions such as aquatic and recreation centres, historic sites, parks and campgrounds. Nature lovers will be drawn to Mountain View Wildlife Conservation and Breeding Centre and Bridal Veil Falls.
The close proximity to Metro Vancouver makes it easy for urbanites to find their jam and provides excellent opportunities for rural daytrips and city-focused excursions.
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 55
Destination BC/Albert Normandin
Seaside Pearl Mt. Lehman Campbell’s Gold Fort Wine Company Backyard Vineyards Sinocan Krause Berry Farm Springland Singletree Festina Lente Township 7 Chaberton Estate Glass House Vista D’oro Blackwood Lane Cavallo 1st ROW Estate Maan Farms Ripples Winery LANGLEY ABBOTSFORD ALDERGROVE FraserHwy FraserHwy Fraser River Fraser River Fraser River Kermode Wild Berry Wines Vye Rd Huntingdon Rd 8 Ave 24 Ave 28 Ave 84 Ave 24 Ave 16 Ave 8 Ave 4 Ave 40 Ave McKenzie Rd Mt. Lehman Rd Lefeuvre Rd 256 St 264 St 248 St 240 St 232 St 200 St 208 St 216 St 192 St 190 St Mt. Lehman Rd Olund Rd Harris Rd 56 Ave LADNER WESTHAM ISLAND PITT MEADOWS RICHMOND SURREY VANCOUVER COQUITLAM MAPLE RIDGE BURNABY NEW WESTMINSTER DELTA 99 91 91 1A 17 99 99 FraserHwy King George Blvd Country Vines Lulu Island Canadian Flower Isabella Winery Sanduz Estate Wines YK3 Sake Vancouver Urban Winery Artisan Sakemaker La Fabrique St. George Maple Creek Lee Bros. Blue Heron Golden Age Meadery Angel Estate Pacific Breeze Storehouse Garden of Granite Mr Mead Vinoscenti Vineyards Whispering Horse St. Urban CHILLIWACK Tourism Langley CHILLIWACK ABBOTSFORD LANGLEY VANCOUVER MAPLE RIDGE COQUITLAM RICHMOND SURREY DELTA British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 56 PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER! FRASER VALLEY & GREATER VANCOUVER LANGLEY & ABBOTSFORD
BC WINERIES
ABBOTSFORD
Campbell’s Gold Honey Farm & Meadery
2595 Lefeuvre Rd, Abbotsford
Phone: (604) 856-2125 www.bchoney.com
Clearbrook Vineyards Clearbrook Rd, Abbotsford www.clearbrookvineyards.com not open to the public
Maan Farms & Estate Winery 790 McKenzie Road, Abbotsford Phone: 604-864-5723 www.maanfarms.com
Mt. Lehman Winery
5094 Mt Lehman Road, Abbotsford Phone: (604) 850-4768 www.mtlehmanwinery.com
Ripples Estate Winery
3387 Tolmie Road, Abbotsford
Phone: (604) 864-1033 www.rippleswinery.com
Seaside Pearl Farmgate Winery 5290 Olund Rd, Abbotsford Phone: (778) 856-1312 www.seasidepearlwinery.ca
Singletree Winery
5782 Mt. Lehman Road, Abbotsford Phone: (604) 381-1788 www.singletreewinery.com
ALDERGROVE
Blackwood Lane Vineyards
25180 8th Avenue, Aldergrove
Phone: (604) 856-5787 www.blackwoodlanewinery.com
Caven Cellars
Phone: (604) 996-4759 www.cavencellars.com
CHILLIWACK
St. Urban Winery 47189 Bailey Road, Chilliwack
Phone: (604) 824-6233
Whispering Horse Winery 43721 Vedder Mountain Road, Chilliwack Phone: (778) 988-7862 www.whisperinghorsewinery.com
DELTA
Angel Estate Winery
2170 Westham Island Rd, Delta Phone: (604) 940-9755 www.angelestatewinery.com
Mr. Mead
11 - 8207 Swenson Way, Delta Phone: (604) 530-2739 www.mrmead.ca
Snowgoose Winery 203B-1546 Derwent Way, Delta Phone: (778) 828-6199 www.snowgoosebrewery.ca Not open to the public
DEWDNEY
Kermode Wild Berry Wines
8457 River Road South, Dewdney Phone: (604) 814-3222 www.kermodewildberry.com
LANGLEY
Backyard Vineyards
3303 - 232nd Street, Langley Phone: (604) 539-9463 www.backyardvineyards.ca
Chaberton Estate Winery 1064 216th Street, Langley Phone: (604) 530-1736 www.chabertonwinery.com
Festina Lente Estate Winery 21113 16th Avenue, Langley Phone: (604) 510-2336 www.festinalente.ca
Fort Wine Company 26151 84th Ave, Langley Phone: (604) 857-1101 www.thefortwineco.com
Glass House Estate Winery 23449 0 Avenue, Langley Phone: (604) 533-1212 www.glasshouseestatewinery.com
Krause Berry Farms & Estate Winery 6179 248th Street, Langley Phone: (604) 856-5757 www.krauseberryfarms.com
Sinocan Winery 2218 240 St, Langley Phone: (778)278-6688 www.sinocanwinery.com
Springland Winery 6962 - 236 Street, Langley Phone: (604) 613-3880 www.springlandwinery.ca
Township 7 Vineyards and Winery 21152-16th Avenue, Langley Phone (604) 532-1766 www.township7.com
Vigneti Marchetto www.vignetimarchetto.com
Vista D’oro Winery 346 - 208th Street, Langley Phone: (604) 514-3539 www.vistadoro.com
NEW WESTMINSTER
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
Canadian Flower Winery 16060 Westminster hwy, Richmond Phone: (778) 927-3777 www.canadianflowerwine.com
Country Vines 12900 Steveston Hwy, Richmond Phone: (604) 274-0522 www.countryfarms.ca
Fraser Sun Winery
Golden Age Meadery Phone: (604) 377-1030 www.goldenagemead.net
Isabella Winery 11491 River Road, Richmond Phone: (604) 288-0608 www.isabellawinery.com
Lulu Island Winery 16880 Westminster Hwy, Richmond Phone : (604) 232-9839 www.luluislandwinery.com
Sanduz Estate Wines 12791 Blundell Road, Richmond Phone: (604) 303-0379 www.canada-berries.com
YK3 Sake Producer Inc. #23-11151 Horseshoe Way, Richmond Phone: (604) 821-0539 www.yk3sake.com
SURREY
1st R.O.W. Estate Winery Ltd 2762 190 Street, Surrey Phone: (604) 542-5075 www.1row.ca
Cavallo Winery 150 - 19288 22 Avenue, Surrey Phone: (778) 294-2858 www.cavallonapa.com
Lee Bros Winery 10316 152A Street, Surrey Phone: (236) 512-4649
Maple Creek Winery 105-16055 Fraser Hwy, Surrey Phone: (604) 507-2624 www.maplecreekwines.com
Storehouse Winery 103 - 8484 162 Street, Surrey Phone: (604) 593-5554 www.storehousewinery.ca
Vinoscenti Vineyards 15560 Colebrook Road, Surrey www.vinoscentivineyards.ca
Pacific Breeze Winery 6 320 Stewardson Way, New Westminster Phone: (604) 522-2228 www.pacificbreezewinery.com
PITT MEADOWS
Blue Heron Fruit Winery 18539 Dewdney Trunk Rd., Pitt Meadows Phone: (604) 465-5563 www.blueheronwinery.ca
RICHMOND
Arcadia Winery www.arcadiacanada.com
VANCOUVER
Artisan Sakemaker at Granville Island 1339 Railspur Alley, Vancouver Phone: (604) 685-7253 www.artisansakemaker.com
Garden of Granite Winery 228 Esplanade East, North Vancouver www.gardenofgranite.com
La Fabrique St. George 7 East 7th, Vancouver www.fabriquestgeorge.com
Vancouver Urban Winery 55 Dunlevy Avenue, Vancouver Phone: (604) 566-9463 www.vancouverurbanwinery.com
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 57
VANCOUVER ISLAND
Average
The Vancouver Island wine industry has really come into its own in the last 30 years. It is the second largest wine growing area in the province in terms of winery numbers and is recognized as its own Geographical Indication.
The wineries here are sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by nearby mountains so the climate tends to be calm and mild. But the proximity of the sea makes for a longer growing season as the frost risk is low in the shoulder seasons.
Winemaking began in the 1920s on the islands, but the vintners back then used loganberrries. Grape growing began to take off in the 1990s. Today, there are about two dozen wineries and about 300 acres of vineyard.
The greatest concentration of wineries are in the Saanich Peninsula and Cowichan Valley, which are blessed with microclimates that are drier and more favourable to winegrowing. The Cowichan Valley is now recognized at a sub-GI.
The island has a lot to offer for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails, Garry oak ecosystems, sandstone formations and beautiful seaside beaches..
Urban dwellers will delight in Victoria, a charming oceanside city with a central harbour and an Old English charm. The area teems with heritage architecture and stunning garden displays. It’s a place here high tea is a ritual and a laid-back attitude is a must. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic getaway complete with horse-drawn carriage rides and fine dining. There’s a strong focus on farm-to-table cuisine and fresh local seafood.
58 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Varieties:
Common Grape
Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Ortega, Marechal Foch
Daily High Temperature (July): 20C
Annual Hours of Sunshine: 2109 / Average Annual Rainfall: 583 mm Acreage: 277 / Soil Type: Silt, clay, sandy loam, gravel
2022 is Divino Estate Winery's 40th Anniversary and Busnardo Vineyard's 55th year of Vinifera grape growing in Canada. Expect to see some new, fun creations to celebrate these milestones. You can also enjoy a 30-year old BC wine with their 1992 Cabernet.
Destination BC/@glamouraspirit_
Zanatta Winery Invinity Sea Star Estate Deep Cove Esquimalt Wine Co Parsell Vineyard Corlan Vineyard Rathjen Cellars Chateau Wolff Kutatás Wines Salt Spring Winery Middle Mountain Mead Fossil Beach Farm Isla De Lerena Vineyard Emandare GULF ISLANDS VANCOUVER ISLAND SOOKE SAANICH SIDNEY COBBLE HILL SOUTH PENDER SATURNA GALIANO ISLAND SALTSPRING ISLAND THETIS ISLAND LADYSMITH GABRIOLA ISLAND DENMAN ISLAND HORNBY ISLAND QUALICUM BEACH PARKSVILLE DUNCAN NANAIMO PORT ALBERNI Millstone COURTENAY SWARTZ BAY VICTORIA Ravenskill VANCOUVER ISLAND & GULF ISLANDS PLEASE TOUR RESPONSIBLY ARRANGE FOR A DESIGNATED DRIVER!
THE GULF ISLANDS
Common Grape Varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Ortega, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer
Average Daily High Temperature (July): 20C
Annual Hours of Sunshine: 2109 / Average Annual Rainfall: 583 mm Acreage: 79 / Soil Type: Silt, gravel, sandy clay, volcanic rock
The Gulf Islands wine industry may be small but a visit to this emerging area is bound to make a big impact. There are only about 80 acres of vineyard throughout the islands, yet it is a separate Geographical Indication because its terroir is so unique.
Located in the Georgia Strait between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland, several islands are home to a smattering of wineries, meaderies and cideries.
Similar to Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands have a longer growing season compared to other regions as their proximity to the Pacific Ocean means there is a lower risk of frost in the spring and fall and little or no snow in the winter. These areas are more suitable for growing aromatic whites and lighter-style reds. But fine wines are also being made from tree fruits, berries and honey.
You’ll find wineries on Salt Spring, Pender, Saturna, Quadra, Gabriola, Hornby, and Denman islands.
The lifestyle here is laid-back, carefree, unhurried and unpretentious that is apparent in their approach to wines. Agritourism is very strong in on the islands with a focus on organics.They are magical places where growing and food production is a passion. You’ll find plenty of farmer’s markets offering up fresh local produce, honey, spring lamb, cheeses, baked goods, preserves and, of course, wine.
The islands are full of natural wonders galore. Adventure lovers can partake in experiences unique to the coast such as ocean kayaking and diving, deep sea fishing and whale watching. For those who appreciate art, there is no shortage of crafters on the islands.
The islands are accessible by ferries and float planes.
60 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe
BC WINERIES
VANCOUVER ISLAND
GREATER VICTORIA
Church & State Wines
1445 Benvenuto Avenue, Victoria Phone: (250) 652-2671 www.churchandstatewines.com
de Vine Vineyards
6181B Old West Saanich Rd, Saanichton (250) 665-6983 www.devinevineyards.ca
Deep Cove Winery 11195 Chalet Road, North Saanich Phone: (250) 656-2552 www.deepcovewinery.ca
Esquimalt Wine Company Unit 3 - 859 Devonshire Road, Esquimalt Phone: (250) 213-7517 www.esquimaltwine.ca
Invinity Sparkling Wine House 10755 Madrona Drive, North Saanich Phone: (250) 532-0123 www.invinity.ca
Rathjen Cellars 334 Walton Place, Saanich Phone: (250) 652-3782 www.rathjencellars.com
Roost Farm Centre 9100 East Saanich Road, North Saanich, Phone: (250) 655-0075 www.roostfarmcentre.com
Symphony Vineyard 6409B Oldfield Road, Central Saanichton Phone: (250) 208-8784 www.symphonyvineyard.com
Tugwell Creek Meadery 8750 West Coast Rd, Sooke Phone: (250) 642-1956 www.tugwellcreekfarm.com
SOUTH ISLAND
Alderlea Vineyards
1751 Stamps Road, Duncan Phone: (250) 746-7122 www.alderlea.ca
GULF ISLANDS
DENMAN ISLAND
Corlan Vineyard
8441 Mcfarlane Road, Denman Island Phone: (250) 335-9132 www.corlanvineyard.wordpress.com
GABRIOLA ISLAND
Ravenskill Orchards
1240 Coats Drive, Gabriola Phone: (250) 325-1111 www.ravenskill.com
HORNBY ISLAND
Fossil Beach Farm
750 Savoie Road, Hornby Island Phone: (250) 686-3481 www.fossilbeachfarm.com
Hornby Island Winery
7000 Anderson Drive, Hornby Island Phone: (250) 335-3019 www.hornbywine.com
Averill Creek 6552 North Road, Duncan Phone: (250) 709-9986 www.averillcreek.ca
Blue Grouse Estate Winery 2182 Lakeside Road, Duncan Phone: (250) 743-3834 www.bluegrouse.ca
Cherry Point Vineyards 840 Cherry Point Road., Cobble Hill Phone: (250) 743-1272 www.cherrypointvineyards.com
Damali Winery and Vinegary 3500 Telegraph Road, Cobble Hill Phone: (250) 743-4100 www.damali.ca
Deol Estate Winery 6645 Somenos Road, Duncan Phone: (250) 746-3967 www.deolestatewinery.com
DIVINO ESTATE WINERY
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
Rocky Creek Winery 1854 Myhrest Road, Cowichan Bay phone: (250) 748-5622 www.rockycreekwinery.ca
Unsworth Vineyards 2915 Cameron Taggart Road, Mill Bay Phone: (250) 929-2292 www.unsworthvineyards.com
Venturi-Schulze Vineyards 4235 Vineyard Road, Cobble Hill Phone: (250) 743-5630 www.venturischulze.com
Vigneti Zanatta Winery & Vineyards 5039 Marshall Road, Duncan Phone: (250) 748-2338 www.zanatta.ca
CENTRAL ISLAND
1500 Freeman Road, Cobble Hill Phone: (250) 743-2311 www.divinowine.ca 2022 is Divino Estate Winery’s 40th Anniversary and Busnardo Vineyard’s 55th year of Vinifera grape growing in Canada. Expect to see some new, fun creations to celebrate these milestones. You can also enjoy a 30-year old BC wine with their 1992 Cabernet. See ad on page 58.
Emandare Vineyard and Winery 6798 Norcross Road, Duncan Phone: (250) 597-4075 www.emandarevineyard.com
Enrico Winery 3280 Telegraph Rd, Mill Bay Phone: (250) 733-2356 www.enricowinery.com
Glenterra Vineyards 3897 Cobble Hill Rd, Cobble Hill phone: (250) 743-2330 www.glenterravineyards.com
40 Knots Estate Winery 2400 Anderton Road, Comox Phone: (250) 941-8810 www.40knotswinery.com
Beaufort Vineyards & Estate Winery 5854 Pickering Road, Courtenay Phone: (250) 338-1357 www.beaufortwines.ca
Blue Moon Farm Winery and Ciderworx 4905 Darcy Road, Courtenay Phone: (250) 338-9765 www.ravensmooncraftcider.ca
Chateau Wolff Estate 2534 Maxey Road, Nanaimo Phone: (778) 441-2625 www.chateauwolff.com
Coastal Black Estate Winery 2186 Endall Road, Black Creek Phone: (250) 337-8325 www.coastalblack.ca
Millstone Estate Winery 2300 East Wellington Road, Nanaimo Phone: (250) 716-3549 www.millstonewinery.ca
Isla De Lerena Vineyard
1885 Central Road, Hornby Island
Phone: (250) 335-2491 www.lerenavineyards.com
Middle Mountain Mead Winery 3505 Euston Road, Hornby Island Phone: (250) 335-1397 www.middlemountainmead.com
PENDER ISLAND
Sea Star Vineyard & Winery
6621 Harbour Hill Pender Island Phone: (250) 629-6960 www.seastarvineyards.ca
QUADRA ISLAND
SouthEnd Farm Vineyards
319 Sutil Road, Quadra Island Phone: (250) 285-2257 www.southend.ca
SALT SPRING ISLAND
Garry Oaks Vineyard
1880 Fulford Ganges Road, Salt Spring Island
Phone: (250) 653-4687 www.garryoakswinery.com
Kutatás Wines
164 Norton Rd, Salt Spring Island Phone: (250) 800-5552 www.kutataswines.com
Salt Spring Vineyards 151 Lee Road, Salt Spring Island Phone: (250) 653-9463 www.saltspringvineyards.com
SATURNA ISLAND
Sage Hayward Vineyards www.sagehaywardvineyards.com
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 61
KOOTENAYS
Common Grape Varieties: Pinor Noir, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Marechal Foch
Average Daily High Temperature (July): 28C
Annual Hours of Sunshine: 1854 / Average Annual Rainfall: 564 mm
Acreage: 83 / Soil Type: Sandy loam, clay, silt, gravelly deposits
Best known for being a rugged, pristine area filled with lakes, rivers, waterfalls, snowcapped mountains, meadows and mineral hot springs, the Kootenays are now home to more than half a dozen independent wineries and breweries.
Grapes were first planted in 1995 in the West Kootenays and today it is a small but emerging wine producing area with just under 100 acres of grapes. It is recognized as a Geographical Indication.
Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the quaintness and the pride the vintners have in their products. But most of all they will appreciate the fact that the producers pushed incredible boundaries to coax the grapes from the soil to
the glass and have a determination to make world-class wines.
The West Kootenays are an outdoors person’s paradise. There are miles and miles of undeveloped terrain, waterways and natural habitat providing unsurpassed exploration, flora and fauna observation and activities such as climbing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and biking, hang gliding, and more. There are also excellent golf courses and ski resorts.
Kootenay Lake is the fifth largest in the province and offers unparalleled vistas. This is a region with an adventurous spirit, a friendly vibe and an ecosystem consciousness. The people here take pride in their land and work hard to preserve it.
BC WINERIES
THE KOOTENAYS
Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery 1140 - 27th Avenue South, Creston Phone: (250) 428-8768 www.bailliegrohman.com
Columbia Gardens Vineyard 9340 Station Road, Trail Phone: (250) 367-7493 www.cgwinery.com
Mithril Meadery 201 Upper Brouse Road, Nakusp www.mithrilmeadery.ca
Pommier Ranch Meadery Skookumchuck www.pommierranchmeadery.ca
Red Bird Estate Winery 1046 Lamont Road, Creston Phone: (250) 254.8885 www.redbirdwine.com
Skimmerhorn Winery 1218 - 27th Avenue South, Creston Phone: (250) 428-4911 www.skimmerhorn.ca
Valley of the Springs Winery 890 Alexander Road, Nakusp Phone: (250) 265-3075 www.valleyofthespringswinery.com
William Tell Family Estate 948 - 27th Avenue South, Creston Phone: (250) 428.1442 www.williamtell.ca
We recommend that you call ahead or refer to winery websites to ensure that they are open at the time of your visit. Winery information may change throughout the course of the year.
Wynnwood Cellars 5566 Highway 3A, Wynndel Phone: (250) 866-5155 www.wynnwoodcellars.com
NORTHERN BC
PRINCE GEORGE
Northern Lights Estate Winery 745 Prince George Pulpmill Road Phone: (250) 564-1112 www.northernlightswinery.ca
KOOTENAY REGION
CANADA
William Tell
Valley of the Springs Mithril Meadery
Red Bird
Baillie-Grohman
Wynnwood
Columbia Gardens Skimmerhorn
NELSON
NAKUSP
Cranbrook
Skookumchuck
Pommier Ranch Meadery
USA 62 British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook
British Columbia Wine Tour Handbook 63 Your Way. YOUR HOME.
DILWORTH.CA