Whether you're an Okanagan local or planning a trip to Kelowna, exploring the area's craft beverage scene is essential. Not sure where to start? The #exploreKelowna Craft Sips Pass guides you through a delightful journey of cafes, meaderies, distilleries, breweries, and cideries. Uncover new spots, support local businesses, enjoy refreshing drinks, and earn rewards simultaneously (and it's free!). Read on to learn how and where you can use your pass to dive into Kelowna's craft beverage offerings.

 

Bean Scene Coffee Works

2018 Winter shoot partnered with TOTA
Bean Scene. Photo: Meghan Reading

If you're a coffee enthusiast who has explored Kelowna's cafe scene, you've likely visited Bean Scene. As pioneers of third-wave coffee in Kelowna since 2002, Bean Scene is committed to selecting, roasting, and preparing exceptional coffee. Their coffee is roasted by hand in small batches, ensuring fresh espresso with every cup. At Bean Scene, you must try their smooth and irresistibly delicious cappuccino, perfectly paired with a Bean Scene Bar. Bean Scene has multiple locations across Kelowna - Bean Scene North, Bean Scene Pandosy, and the Bean Scene Headquarters in the Landmark District.

 

Copper Brewing Company

People at Copper BrewingCopper Brewing. Photo: BC Ale Trail & Norma Ibarra

Copper Brewing has been a part of Kelowna's craft beer community since 2019. Located in Kelowna's Landmark District, Copper Brewing has quickly garnered a loyal following, often referred to as "Darla’s living room." The welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community are at the heart of Copper Brewing's charm. Visitors can enjoy good laughs, great times, high-quality pub fare made from locally sourced ingredients, and genuinely good beer. Play some of their retro video games as you enjoy a pint, or get in on their famous lego nights. You have to try their chicken wings!

 

Kelowna Beer Institute

Kelowna Beer Institute 1Kelowna Beer Institute. Photo: BC Ale Trail

Situated in the heart of Kelowna's Cultural District, the Kelowna Beer Institute brews small batches of beer, serving it unfiltered and fresh from tank to tap. The Institute was established to share a deep knowledge and passion for craft beer. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy learning about and savouring craft beer just as much as the team enjoys brewing and serving it. The space offers unique viewing opportunities into the craft brewing process. You can sip your beer and watch as the brewers make it through the glass windows. They have a great outdoor patio space as well!

 

Meadow Vista Honey Wines

Outdoor Wine Tasting at Meadow Vista Honey Wines 1Meadow Vista Honey Wines. Photo: Ken Hagen

Nestled in the heart of Kelowna, Meadow Vista Honey Wines offers a unique twist on traditional winemaking by incorporating the sweet essence of honey. Visitors can enjoy a variety of meads, each crafted with locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the vibrant flora of the region. The farm also features a delightful bistro, serving fresh, farm-to-table dishes, and offers engaging activities like self-guided bee tours and picnics. Meadow Vista is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the sweet harmony of nature and craft beverages.

 

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery: Kelowna + Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery Vernon

Inside Okanagan Spirit's Vernon
Okanagan Spirits Vernon Location. Photo: Darby Svendsen

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery, with locations in Kelowna and Vernon, is a pioneer in the Canadian craft distilling scene. Renowned for their farm-to-flask philosophy, they produce an impressive range of award-winning spirits, including whisky, vodka, gin, and even absinthe. Visitors can explore the distillery through informative tours and tastings, experiencing firsthand the art of distillation. Their commitment to quality and local ingredients shines through in every sip, making Okanagan Spirits the perfect stop for craft beverage enthusiasts in the Okanagan Valley. They also offer a wide range of cocktails made with their spirits to be enjoyed at each location. 

  • Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery - Kelowna: Located on Bernard Avenue in downtown, this is a perfect spot to sip cocktails on the patio or to enjoy the Farm to Flask Experience. Pre-book this experience to learn all about vodka, gin, whiskey, and liqueurs.
  • Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery - Vernon: Visit the flagship distillery and learn about Okanagan Spirits' process and dedication to using quality local ingredients. This location offers a Cocktail Creation class, make a reservation and learn how to craft of the perfect cocktail. At this location, you can view the distilling process as you sip spirits. The Vernon location is also home to North America's tallest copper pot still!

 

Soma Craft Cidery

Soma Craft Cidery - Cider Tasting at TableSoma Craft Cidery. Photo: Scott Bakken Productions

Soma Craft Cidery, located in Kelowna, offers a delightful blend of tradition and innovation in their handcrafted ciders. Their tasting room and picnic area invite visitors to savor a variety of unique ciders, such as Honey Lavender and Hopped Apple Pear. Committed to sustainable and local practices, Soma Cidery uses fresh-pressed juice from Okanagan Valley orchards. The farm also features a cider lounge with West Coast-inspired Mexican cuisine, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon or a lively event. And to make it even better, you can visit their alpacas while enjoying a glass of cider - too cute! For the family, try their Apple Juice tasting, as seen in the header image!

 

BC Tree Fruits Cider Co.

BC Tree Fruits Cidery
BC Tree Fruits Cider Co. Photo: Meghan Reading

BC Tree Fruits Cider Co., situated in Kelowna, crafts premium hard ciders using 100% BC-grown apples and local fruits. Their Broken Ladder series highlights the crisp, natural flavours of the Okanagan Valley, free from artificial additives and added sugars. Visitors can indulge in tastings at their cidery and tasting bar in Kelowna's brewery district, offering a refreshing exploration of local flavours. Adjacent to the cidery is the BC Tree Fruits market, where visitors can also purchase fresh, local produce.

 

Download the free #exploreKelowna Craft Sips Pass today! Win some awesome Kelowna-themed prizes while exploring Kelowna's craft beverage scene. 

 

Header image: Soma Craft Cidery. Photo: Scott Bakken Productions