Since the first vines were planted by Father Pandosy in 1859, the number of vineyards and wineries in and around Kelowna has grown to more than 40. Within the city limits of Kelowna, you can find three distinct wine routes: South East Kelowna, along the Lakeshore Route, and Downtown Kelowna. With so much to discover, including a growing number of organic wineries, now is the time to book your spring or summer wine tour. 

As part of BC Wine Month, we are featuring wineries from Kelowna’s distinct wine communities. The Central Okanagan is smack in the middle of one of the world's most exciting wine regions, acclaimed for its crisp whites, complex reds, and a growing number of organic winemakers. Here are just some of the fantastic wineries you can find in Kelowna.

South East Kelowna

South East Kelowna Wine Trail is known for its rolling hills, bucolic fields, and winding country roads, and the wineries that pepper this corner of Kelowna live up to the area. Most of the wineries and tasting rooms along the southeast Kelowna bench are on the smaller side and tend to be family-owned, and they all share a rural, cool, and funky farm feel to them. Explore the wineries along this trail for robust Pinot Noirs, sweet Rosés, and delicious Sparkling wines. Here are some wineries you can find along the way.

Meadow Vista Honey Wines

^{Outdoor wine tasting at Meadow Vista. Photo: Ken Hagen}

Meadow Vista is a modern artisan farm winery driven by passionate eco-foodies. Their mission is to produce wines that capture the essence of nature, while also supporting the health of honey bees. Founded on the belief that a love for fresh, local ingredients, wine, and beekeeping can be combined, Meadow Vista offers a selection of honey wines and bee-inspired food products for discerning wine lovers and foodies to enjoy.

Priest Creek Family Estate Winery

^{Enjoying the patio at Priest Creek. Photo: Ken Hagen}

On the scenic benchlands of South Kelowna's wine trail, Priest Creek Family Estate Winery, a new addition to the region, invites you to explore its world of premium wines. Relax and take in the breathtaking mountain vistas that surround the family-run vineyard as you browse their selection in the boutique-style wine shop. Priest Creek's commitment to quality extends from its meticulous vineyard practices to the carefully crafted wines enjoyed today or cellared for future savouring. To complete your experience, enjoy a selection of delicious bites from the on-site food truck, all while surrounded by the beauty of the Okanagan Valley.

SpearHead Winery

^{Group Wine Tasting at SpearHead Winery. Photo: Kylie Mae}

Situated on the South East Kelowna benchlands within the new East Kelowna Slopes Sub GI, SpearHead Winery is dedicated to crafting exceptional wines. They source grapes from both their estate vineyards and select Okanagan Valley partners, allowing them to showcase the unique terroir of each region. SpearHead's focus lies in Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays that reflect their origin, along with aromatic white wines like Pinot Gris and Riesling.

The winery's welcoming atmosphere extends from their shop, amidst the vineyards, to their inviting patio and lawn area where guests can relax and enjoy the Okanagan sunshine. Led by knowledgeable staff, tastings are conducted in a seated format. For the latest information on special events, promotions, and ways to get involved with SpearHead Winery, visit their website.

Well-behaved furry companions are welcome on the outdoor lawn, and while guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, it's recommended to check the website for updates on any in-house food offerings.

The Vibrant Vine

^{Wine tasting surrounded by vivid art at The Vibrant Vine. Photo: Ken Hagen}

The Vibrant Vine offers more than just award-winning wines, which includes their prestigious title of "Best White Wine in the World" at the 2013 World Wine Competition. They cultivate a vibrant experience, hosting over 100 musical shows annually across three stages. From grand productions featuring international artists in the Villa Courtyard to intimate performances in the underground Jacko's Lounge, there's something for everyone.

Adding to the unique atmosphere, The Vibrant Vine embraces a 3D theme – everything from bottle labels to frisbees comes alive with a special pair of 3D glasses provided to each guest. Plan an afternoon of indulgence by starting your exploration at one of their six tasting areas, followed by an afternoon show on the Garden Stage. The on-site Snack Shack completes the experience, offering pizzas, charcuterie boards, "Woopsicles," and of course, a full selection of their acclaimed wines.

The View Winery

^{Picnic in the vineyard at The View. Photo: Shawn Talbot Photography}

Set in a vintage 1922 apple packing house, The View Winery offers an authentic Okanagan experience. Featuring aromatic fresh, crisp whites, fruit-forward, spicy reds and handcrafted apple ciders. Nestled amid rolling orchards and vines, minutes from downtown Kelowna. Look for the Red Shoe!

Lakeshore & Downtown

Wind your way along the scenic Lakeshore Wine Route, where breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake perfectly complement delicious award-winning wines. This route boasts some of the Okanagan Valley's oldest vines and most established wineries. Savour everything from classic old-vine Rieslings and buttery Chardonnays to innovative organic red blends and robust Cabernet Francs. But the Lakeshore Wine Route isn't all about tradition. Get ready for a touch of whimsy - explore a unique maze crafted from vines and marvel at a fully functioning pyramid winery!

After your wine-tasting adventure, continue your journey to the vibrant heart of Kelowna – Downtown. Framed by the stunning Okanagan Lake, Downtown Kelowna is a hub of energy, offering a unique twist on urban exploration. Ditch the car for its pedestrian-friendly paradise. Walk, bike, or longboard your way from one urban delight to the next. Sample local vintages at trendy urban wineries, quench your thirst at craft breweries or discover hidden gems like cideries and distilleries, all within a few walkable blocks.

Sandhill Estate Winery

^{Enjoying an urban wine tasting at Sandhill.}

Downtown Kelowna's Sandhill Winery offers an award-winning escape. Sample their celebrated single-vineyard and small-lot wines year-round at the Urban Tasting Room. This Okanagan gem extends beyond exceptional wines, hosting diverse events for every wine lover.

Enjoy their Happy Hour featuring delicious bites paired with discounted wines by the glass. Daily from 3 pm, Sandhill provides a welcoming space to connect with loved ones and discover new favourites among their acclaimed wines and food pairings.

Sandhill's philosophy emphasizes terroir, ensuring each bottle reflects the unique fingerprint of its vineyard. Winemaker Sydney Valentino's techniques amplify these natural influences, allowing the fruit flavours to take center stage in every glass.

Tantalus Vineyards

_{Open-air wine tasting at Tantalus. Photo: Shawn Talbot Photography}

Tantalus Vineyards promises a unique experience, blending breathtaking lake vistas with a historic vineyard and their state-of-the-art LEED-certified winery. Inside their sleek, gallery-style tasting room, guests can savour premium single-vineyard wines surrounded by captivating works from acclaimed Canadian artists.

Summerhill Pyramid Winery

^{Taking in the view at Summerhill. Photo: Ken Hagen}

Summerhill Pyramid Winery, renowned as Canada's most visited winery, invites you to discover the magic for yourself. The welcoming, multilingual team is eager to share their passion for sustainable practices. Choose from a guided tasting, an in-depth Pyramid Experience tour, a delicious meal at the Organic Bistro, or simply relax on the farm with a picnic and a bottle of their acclaimed wine. Explore the biodynamic vineyard, its flourishing gardens, serene nature preserves, and even a historic First Contact Exhibit featuring an original 1800s cabin. Summerhill invites you to connect with nature and savour the fruits of their co-venture with Mother Nature.

Enjoy all of what Kelowna's wineries have to offer safely. Guided wine tours unlock hidden gems, exclusive tastings, and chats with winemakers. Local experts craft itineraries to your taste, share insider info, and handle the navigation. Book your stress-free exploration and discover Kelowna's wineries like a pro. View our in-depth list of wine tour companies here.

For more wineries in the area, click here.