The air outside is getting frosty and there's no better way to embrace the winter weather than by warming up at local wineries. The combination of the valley’s stunning natural beauty, pleasant hospitality, and award-winning wines, makes for a perfect winter outing. We'll take you through some of the wineries to add to your wine tour in the area during the winter season, where you can discover hidden warmth in every glass of wine.
Peak Cellars Winery
One of Lake Country’s newest wineries, Peak Cellars is proud to offer its 100% estate-grown wines to the Okanagan and beyond. Did you know that wine isn’t the only thing produced at Peak Cellars? They also grow organic vegetables and fruits, which supply ingredients for their on-site Garden Bistro.
The passionate winemakers at Peak Cellars work hard to create bright, fresh, and stunning wines. 2021 Skin Kissed Pinot Gris is a great place to start if you're new to Peak Cellars’ wines. It’s extremely versatile and can be paired with just about anything. Offering notes of cotton candy, Swedish berries, strawberry nibs, and confectioner’s sugar, this wine leaves your mouth with a sweet, soft, and smooth finish.
December is often a busy month, but if you have the time, check out one of the many events hosted at Peak Cellars. To gear up for the holiday spirit, partake in the Cookie Decorating Workshop on December 5th. If baking isn’t your thing, consider joining the December 10th Gewurztraminer Wine Class where you’ll learn more about the specific varietal and how to pair it with food.
St. Hubertus & Oak Bay Estate Winery
Take the picturesque journey along Lakeshore Road and you’ll arrive at the vineyards of St. Hubertus & Oak Bay Estate Winery. St. Hubertus & Oak Bay Estate has gained a reputation as an esteemed winery, thanks to its core values of family, organic farming, sustainability, and dedication to producing exceptional wine.
Unsure of what to bring to your upcoming weekend at the ski chalet? Try the 2022 Oak Bay Gamay Noir VQA. This light red wine brings forward vivid peppery, black cherry, and mineral aromas along with light, dry tannins. It also pairs beautifully with a big bowl of brown butter & roasted squash ravioli.
If you need a bit of a break from holiday shopping, head over to St. Hubertus & Oak Bay Estate Winery and step into a relaxed and scenic atmosphere. Taste and try five delectable terroir-influenced wines with a guided tasting. Walk-ins are welcome!
The Vibrant Vine
Located in East Kelowna, you’ll find The Vibrant Vine winery- where wine, art, and music meet! The Vibrant Vine does not hold back when it comes to entertaining guests. Upon arrival, you’ll put on a pair of 3D glasses, admire the artwork, and see the tasting room in a unique and vibrant way.
At The Vibrant Vine, you can find an assorted array of wines that cater to different palates, ranging from dry and refreshing sparkling to fragrant whites, and full-bodied reds. Complete your relaxing evening next to the fireplace with Vibrant Vine’s 2020 Dragon Merlot. This Merlot exudes a lightly spiced, warm finish with an elegant blend of cherries, dried cranberries, and figs.
Looking for something festive to do on December 9th? The Vibrant Vine is hosting a Charcuterie Wreath Making Workshop! Not only will you learn how to put together an impressive charcuterie wreath, but you’ll also get a guided paired tasting at the event.
Meadow Vista Honey Wines
Join the hive this winter at Meadow Vista Honey Wines and experience the world of honey wine, also known as mead. You can find this winery and bee farm amongst the orchards of East Kelowna. Meadow Vista is always finding new and innovative ways to increase awareness and provide education about the importance of honeybees!
When you imagine a winter beverage, what comes to mind? Probably something comforting, warm, and with a bit of spice. Meadow Vista checks all the boxes with their Mabon Spiced Mead! This mead balances the perfect amount of honey and warm spices, such as cinnamon, cardamon, coriander, nutmeg, and clove. Serve it warm alongside a slice of pumpkin pie and you’ve got yourself the ideal after-dinner treat.
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1st to 23rd, Meadow Vista will be hosting their signature Holiday Light Up. Gather with friends as you indulge in wine tastings, hot chocolate, live music, s’mores roasting, holiday photo ops, and more!
Mt. Boucherie Winery
Situated on volcanic soils on the slopes in West Kelowna, you’ll discover the premier Mt. Boucherie Winery. Mt. Boucherie wines are crafted with the utmost care, attention, and detail. Visit their luxurious tasting room and experience the taste for yourself!
If you’re still looking for a gift for the wine connoisseur in your life, delight them with a bottle of Mt. Boucherie’s 2020 Reserve Syrah. This Syrah was aged 15 months in a French & Hungarian oak barrel and presents bold, rich fruit flavours, ending with a peppery long finish on the mouth.
Admire the winter scenery and spectacular view of Okanagan Lake from the comfort and warmth of the Mt. Boucherie Winery tasting room. Their tasting flight features a rotating selection of wine styles and flavours for you to try and enjoy. If you’re feeling hungry, you have the option to add a charcuterie and cheese board to your tasting from the winery’s restaurant, the Modest Butcher.
Gray Monk Estate Winery
Gray Monk Estate Winery is a 25-acre paradise for wine lovers located in beautiful Lake Country. The first winery to bring the Pinot Gris grape to BC, it’s no wonder that Gray Monk winery is the top producer of VQA Pinot Gris wine! Fun fact - the name Gray Monk emerged from the German name for Pinot Gris - ‘Grauar Mönch’.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, it would be a mistake to go to Gray Monk and not try their renowned and flavourful 2022 Odyssey Pinot Gris VQA. This Pinot Gris is medium-bodied, smooth, rich, and slightly off dry. It pairs well with hearty dishes, such as quiche and smoked salmon.
Do not miss Gray Monk’s very first German Christmas Market! On December 9th and 10th, you can sip on a glass of Glühwein (mulled wine) while shopping local vendors and eating authentic German bratwurst and pretzels. Santa will also be there, so you can bring the whole family along!
