A Taste of Terroir: Add these Wineries to your West Kelowna Wine Tour
Fall is one of the best times to explore the wineries of the Okanagan Valley and West Kelowna boasts a remarkable array of them, each with their own unique charm set against breathtaking backdrops and accompanied by exceptional wines. Here are four must-visit wineries to explore, each with distinct experiences that showcases the region's finest.
Start your wine journey on Boucherie Road at Grizzli Winery. With state-of-the-art production facilities and one of Canada's largest tasting rooms—complete with an impressive art gallery—Grizzli is a standout. The newly opened restaurant, 31 Charkay, adds to its allure. Known for its family- and pet-friendly events, including outdoor movie nights and seasonal markets (don’t miss the upcoming Christmas Market on November 30), Grizzli also hosts a happy hour every Friday, making it an ideal stop on your tour.
Just down the road, nestled at the base of a once-active volcano, Volcanic Hills Estate Winery’s vines grown in rich, fertile soil—ideal for cultivating grapes and creating exceptional wines. Estate grown grapes like Gamay, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Noir are favourites at the tasting bar, in addition to late harvests and red and white blends. And don’t miss out on special events that pair their wines with a fun crafting experience like Sip & Paint Nights or Silk Scarf Workshops.
Next, immerse yourself in the experience at Quails’ Gate Winery, a family-owned gem that has been crafting world-class wines since 1989. Don’t miss this winery on your fall visit, options for wine experiences include a classic tasting, a wine and cheese pairing with four tastings, or the Reserve Library Tasting that includes five wines and is enjoyed while seated in the Stewart Family Library. While planning your visit, book a table at Old Vine’s restaurant, where the wine-led menu features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients in contemporary dishes.
Finally, make your way to one of the Okanagan's most well-known wineries, Mission Hill Family Estate. Established in 1981 by Anthony von Mandl, the winery’s stunning architecture and breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding vineyards are picture perfect. Book the Behind the Cellar Door tour for a glimpse at the underground barrel cellar, carved from volcanic rock, while sipping premium wines including Bordeaux blends and bright whites like Chardonnay and Reisling. This season, you can also enjoy a variety of cooking classes that pair Mission Hill wines with a variety of culinary offerings. And don’t miss the Festival of Trees just in time for the holidays.
For a stress-free wine experience, consider booking a guided tour. With numerous options available, you can join a group or arrange a private tour to explore at your own pace. And if you choose not to book a tour, always ensure you have a designated driver.
Last but not least, don’t forget to sign up for the #exploreKelowna Wineries Pass during your visit! As you explore the wineries, you can earn points towards exciting prizes and be entered into a quarterly draw for a wine-themed prize pack worth over $350.
