Fall is one of the best times to explore the wineries of the Okanagan Valley. Though yield is low this year, harvest is still in full swing and wineries are bustling. The smaller crowds give you the chance to enjoy a more personal experience, and you might even catch a glimpse of the winemaking process and be able to have meaningful conversations with the people behind the wine. The changing colours of the vineyards and surrounding landscape, along with the warmth of the autumn sun, create a beautiful backdrop for any visit. It's no surprise that fall is a favourite season for wine lovers.

Here are four must-visit wineries in the Okanagan Valley to check out this fall.

Priest Creek Family Estate Winery

^{Priest Creek Winery. Photo: Ken Hagen}

Priest Creek Family Estate Winery is a charming, family-run winery located along the Sip South East Kelowna Wine Trail. Founded by Darren and Jane, who wanted to raise their kids surrounded by nature, the winery carries a rich history. The land itself was once farmed by the Mission in the 1800s, and the name "Priest Creek" honours the heritage of the property, with a creek running behind it that connects to the historic Mission Creek. It’s a spot that reflects both tradition and the owners' passion for producing premium wines.

Visiting Priest Creek in the fall is a real treat. The crisp air and golden autumn sunlight create the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon on the patio. With their handcrafted wines and community events like Food Truck Friday's and the upcoming Fall Market on September 29th, it’s a great way to embrace the season. You can soak in the scenic views while supporting local vendors, enjoying live music, and, of course, sipping on some fantastic wine.

Sandhill Winery

Sandhill Winery, Kelowna’s only urban winery, is conveniently located downtown, making it easy for visitors staying in the hear of the city. As the first winery in BC to adopt a single vineyard winemaking philosophy, Sandhill focuses on the unique characteristics that each vineyard’s soil, sun exposure, slope, and drainage bring to their grapes. Over time, they've evolved to prioritize quality above all, incorporating exceptional vineyards like Casorso, known for producing unique varieties such as Sovereign Opal. Their winemaking style is all about enhancing the natural fruit flavours, allowing each wine to showcase the best of what BC vineyards can offer.

Fall is an ideal time to visit Sandhill, not just for the wine but also for their beautiful indoor tasting space, which provides a cozy escape as the weather cools. The winery hosts a variety of seasonal events, making each visit an experience in itself. One of the highlights this season is their Monster Mash 80’s Bash on October 26th, offering a fun, festive way to enjoy wine with a spooky twist. With weekly events throughout the fall, Sandhill is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy premium wines in the heart of downtown Kelowna.

Tantalus Vineyards

^{Tantalus' stunning vineyard in the fall. Photo: Shawn Talbot Photography}

Since 2004, Tantalus Vineyards has been dedicated to producing wines with purpose and respect for the land. With some of the oldest vinifera plantings in the country, Tantalus has built a strong reputation for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, both in Canada and internationally. Located on the eastern slopes of Okanagan Lake, the vineyard offers stunning views overlooking the valley and the city below. 

Tantalus Vineyards is a must-visit in the fall and don't miss out on an archival tasting with winemaker David Paterson on October 12, 2024.  The From the Archives event will be a retrospective of standout, aged vintages, including some rare sparkling wines. Guests will enjoy a relaxed evening and the rare opportunity to purchase from "the vault". Limited seats are available, book now. 

Quails' Gate Estate Winery

^{Quails' Gate and picturesque vineyard in the fall. Photo: Shawn Talbot Photography}

Quails' Gate Winery, located in West Kelowna, is renowned for its stunning views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding vineyards. As a family-owned winery with a rich history, Quails' Gate has established itself as a leader in producing high-quality wines, particularly its award-winning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Their commitment to sustainable practices and local ingredients ensures that each bottle reflects the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley.

Visiting Quails' Gate in the fall offers a unique experience, as the vineyard transforms with vibrant autumn colours. A highlight of any visit is dining at the Old Vines Restaurant, where you can indulge in farm-to-table cuisine perfectly paired with their wines. Throughout the season, Quails' Gate also hosts a variety of events, including wine pairings and seasonal tastings, making it a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the local wine culture. Whether you're enjoying a glass on the terrace, dining at the restaurant, or participating in one of their special events, Quails' Gate is a perfect destination for fall wine lovers.

Book Your Fall Wine Tour for the Ultimate Fall Winery Experience

^{Wine tasting at SpearHead Winery. Photo: Shawn Talbot Photography}

To enjoy all that Kelowna’s wineries have to offer safely, guided wine tours are the way to go. These tours unlock hidden gems, exclusive tastings, and personal insights from winemakers. Local experts craft itineraries to match your tastes, share insider info, and handle the driving—leaving you to focus on the wine. Book a stress-free exploration and discover Kelowna’s wineries like a pro. For more information, check out our in-depth list of wine tour companies here.

Be sure to sign up for our exploreKelowna Wineries Pass to earn rewards as you sip and savour.

For a full list of wineries in Kelowna, click here.

To see events happening at wineries this fall, click here.