April is BC Wine Month, and so this month we'll be celebrating everything BC Wine related! Kelowna is located right 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. Throughout the month we'll be featuring wineries from Kelowna's distinct wine trails.
Lake Country Scenic Sip Trail
Located just north of Kelowna, Lake Country is a quaint rural town that lives up to its name. Three stunning lakes, Okanagan, Wood, and Kalamalka, are nestled amongst rolling hills, vineyards, and orchards, which almost guarantee a stunning view from wherever you stop, giving the name to the area's wine trail, The Scenic Sip. Here are some of the great wineries you'll find along the trail.
50th Parallel Estate
Encased in glass for stunning unobstructed views of the lake, this modern and sleek winery is surrounded by acres of vineyards. Specializing in Pinot Noir, which makes up about 35% of the winery’s production, 50th Parallel focuses on a small portfolio of internationally award-winning wines, which include Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Chardonnay, as well as a Pinot Noir Rosé. 50th Parallel is currently open for tastings and the restaurant Block One is open Thursday to Monday. Check their website for more information.
Ancient Hill Estate Winery
This boutique European-style winery, set in the beautiful area of Ellison, specializes in small-lot wines made entirely from grapes grown in their own vineyard and processed on-site. The temperature and terroir of its location have favoured Ancient Hill with crisp aromatic whites, which can be enjoyed while taking in the beautiful views of the valley from the picnic area. The tasting room and patio are currently open. Check their website for more information.
Arrowleaf Cellars
Nestled on a 16-acre vineyard and named after the Arrowleaf Balsamroot flower, also known as the Okanagan Sunflower, this estate winery produces terroir-driven wines of impeccable quality. Stunning vistas over the lake can be enjoyed from the sleek and modern tasting room, designed by award-winning architect, Robert Mackenzie. Arrowleaf Cellars is currently open for tastings. Visit their website to book your experience.
Gray Monk Estate Winery
Established in 1972, Gray Monk was one of the original five estate wineries that pioneered the wine industry in BC. Known for its delicious Pinot Gris, where its name comes from (Gray Monk is the English translation of the Austrian term for Pinot Gris), this historic winery, with its stunning views of Okanagan Lake, mountains, and vineyards, is definitely worth experiencing. Gray Monk is currently open for tastings.
Intrigue Wines
Satisfy your curiosity and fascinate your senses at this boutique winery. Nestled in the heart of Lake Country, Intrigue has a wine that pairs perfectly for every occasion, from a Frizzante-style bubbly, to aromatic whites, to a rich Merlot. Intrigue Wines is currently open for wine tastings. Check their website for more information.
Peak Cellars Winery
100% Lake Country, 100% Estate on 100+ acres. Complex, bright and intriguing wines characterize Peak Cellars Winery, one of the more recent additions to The Scenic Sip. Their wine selection includes fresh aromatic whites such as Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling as well as a fruity Rosé, and Pinot Noir. The winery is open for tastings and the patio is open at the Garden Bistro. Check their website for more information
Also nearby
Ex Nihilo Vineyards
Set amongst the vineyards, Ex Nihilo creates wines that reflect the Okanagan and the unique terroirs of the valley. The 20 acres of premium vines thrive on the southwest-facing property, and the wine is nurtured with a balance of old-world tradition and innovative practices. Open for tastings and Chaos Bistro is open for take out.
Blind Tiger Vineyards
A unique and family-run organic vineyard in 2010 they planted their first blocks of Riesling and Gewürztraminer, then later added Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Opening for tastings on May 1st, 2021
If you want to add a little extra to your visit to the area, sample some ciders at Upside Cider, stop for a delicious bite to eat at The Jammery, or stock up on Okanagan fruits and vegetables at Gatzke's Farm Market, or Gambell Farms.
