Exploring BC’s best wineries has never been easier—and for us, it’s become the ultimate getaway to the Southern Okanagan.
This sun-soaked region in British Columbia’s interior is Canada’s second-largest wine-producing area, accounting for nearly 80% of BC wine. Stretching 160 kilometers north of the U.S. border and roughly 400 kilometers east of Vancouver, the Okanagan shares a latitude with iconic European wine regions like Champagne and the Rheingau. It’s where desert hills meet glacial lakes, and the terroir tells its own story in every glass.
We visit several times throughout the year—often in early May as the vineyards come to life, again during the fall harvest in September or October, and sometimes for winter wine festivals or spring releases. Wine tasting here isn’t just about the wine (though we honeymooned in Napa and still love our California favorites). It’s about the architecture, the setting, the storytelling, and the perfect dinner pairing to end the day.
With more than 180 wineries in the Okanagan alone, we haven’t made it to them all (yet)—but this list includes the standouts: places that keep drawing us back for a second pour.
Regions of the best BC wineries
The British Columbia Wine Institute lists seven Okanagan viticultural regions:
- Lake Country/North Okanagan
- Kelowna-Central Okanagan
- West Kelowna-Mount Boucherie
- Summerland-Peachland
- Penticton-Naramata
- Okanagan Falls
- Oliver/Golden Mile
- Black Sage/Osoyoos
Lake Country/North Okanagan Wineries
Ex Nihilo Vineyards
Tucked into the scenic wine trail just north of Kelowna, Ex Nihilo delivers a more intimate experience than many of its larger neighbors—without sacrificing sophistication. The name, meaning “out of nothing,” is a nod to the founders’ bold vision to build something exceptional from scratch in Lake Country’s rolling hills.
The wines are elegant and expressive, especially the Pinot Noir and Riesling, which reflect the area’s cooler climate and complex soils. The tasting room feels sleek but grounded, with rotating art exhibits and floor-to-ceiling views that invite lingering.
On-site, Chaos Bistro adds even more reason to stay awhile. The wood-fired pizzas and seasonal small plates are perfect pairings for the winery’s crisp whites and structured reds. We’ve been big fans of their red wines for many years, and wine tastings on the deck overlooking the lake remain one of the most relaxing, enjoyable ways to spend an afternoon. Ex Nihilo hits that sweet spot between polished and personal—every time.
50th Parallel Estate Winery
Striking from the moment you arrive, 50th Parallel is a showpiece winery with clean, modern architecture and panoramic views across Lake Okanagan. The sleek concrete-and-glass design is dramatic yet inviting, framing rows of Pinot Noir vines cascading toward the water.
This is Pinot country, and 50th Parallel leans into it. Their estate-grown Pinot Noir is a standout—silky, aromatic, and layered—while their Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer offer crisp, fruit-forward counterpoints. The cool climate setting and volcanic soils lend a distinct elegance and precision to the entire portfolio.
Block One, the winery’s on-site restaurant, is worth the trip on its own. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a vineyard patio, where dishes like local steelhead trout or house-made pasta are built to complement the wines. It’s a place that feels tailor-made for long lunches, golden hour tastings, and those slow, unforgettable evenings that define Okanagan wine country.
I took a few of my girlfriends to a wine tasting, and then we had a lovely lunch at Block One. This winery is the perfect choice for girls’ trips!
Hot Tip Alert! You can get a free tasting if you show your RBC Avion Visa.
Gray Monk Estate Winery
Gray Monk is one of the true pioneers of the Okanagan wine scene. Established in 1972, it helped shape the region’s modern wine identity and remains a must-visit stop on the Lake Country wine trail. The name comes from the Austrian term for Pinot Gris—“Grauer Mönch”—and fittingly, this grape remains a signature of the estate.
Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of Lake Okanagan, the winery blends heritage with hospitality. The tasting room offers a wide portfolio, from crisp, fruit-forward whites to approachable reds and dessert wines, making it an excellent option for first-timers and seasoned wine lovers.
The Lookout Restaurant offers another reason to linger, with a panoramic patio and seasonal menu designed to complement the wines. And if you’re staying at nearby Sparkling Hill Resort, Gray Monk makes for an easy and worthwhile addition to your itinerary—whether for a relaxed tasting, a scenic lunch, or a glass of Pinot Gris with a view.
Also in this area:
- O’Rourke Family Vineyards & O’Rourke Peak Cellars
- Arrowleaf Cellars
- Blind Tiger Vineyards (Marno’s Woodfire Pizza Restaurant on-premises)
- Intrigue Winery
Kelowna-Central Okanagan
Cedar Creek Estate Winery
CedarCreek has been on my list of best BC wineries since the early 2000s. I first fell in love with their Pinot Noir after ordering a glass at a Vancouver restaurant, and not long after, I made my way to the winery to see where it all began.
Set against Kelowna’s South East Bench slopes, CedarCreek is one of the Okanagan’s most established estates—but its recent transformation has brought a new level of refinement. The sleek, modern tasting room overlooks the lake and vineyard rows, while the on-site restaurant, Home Block, elevates the food and wine pairing experience with a seasonal, fire-driven menu.
Pinot Noir remains the heart of the portfolio, alongside expressive Chardonnays and aromatic whites—all shaped by organic farming and a strong sense of place. Whether revisiting a longtime favorite or discovering it for the first time, CedarCreek blends legacy and innovation in all the right ways.
Martin’s Lane Winery
Martin’s Lane is unlike any other winery in the Okanagan—and it’s meant to be. Built into a steep hillside above Kelowna, this gravity-fed, Pinot Noir-focused estate feels more like a modern art installation than a traditional tasting room. Sleek, architectural, and unapologetically minimal, it sets the tone from the moment you arrive.
The focus here is laser-sharp: Pinot Noir and Riesling, crafted in small batches from meticulously farmed single vineyards. Winemaker Shane Munn lets the vineyards speak, with a low-intervention approach that emphasizes site, soil, and subtlety. The results are some of the most refined and age-worthy wines in British Columbia.
Tastings are by appointment only and deliberately exclusive, offering a quiet, contemplative contrast to the busier energy of neighboring estates. With its dramatic views, architectural edge, and singular focus, Martin’s Lane isn’t just a winery—it’s an experience designed for those who want to see just how far Okanagan wine can go.
Summerhill Pyramid Winery
There’s no mistaking Summerhill. From the giant replica Egyptian-style pyramid to the sweeping vineyard views over Okanagan Lake, this winery is as distinctive as it is welcoming. Known for its certified organic and biodynamic practices, Summerhill has carved out a space where spiritual curiosity and serious winemaking go hand in hand.
The pyramid itself—used to age their wines—is a conversation starter, drawing visitors worldwide. But it’s the sparkling wine that keeps them coming back. Summerhill’s Cipes Brut is a local classic: crisp, celebratory, and consistently well-made; it’s long been one of BC’s most awarded bubblies.
Tastings are relaxed and often include stories about energy, terroir, and the winery’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. The on-site bistro adds to the experience with organic, farm-forward fare and is one of Kelowna’s best patios.
Whether you’re there for the sparkling, the stories, or simply the view, Summerhill offers a wine experience that’s entirely its own.
Also in this area:
- Tantalus Vineyards
- Sandhill Winery/Calona Vineyards
- Kitsch Wines
- Sperling Vineyards
- St Hubertus & Oak Bay Estate Winery
- Frequency Winery
- The View Winery & Wards Cider
- Spearhead Winery
- Priest Creek Family Estate Winery
- Camelot Vineyards
- Nagging Doubt Winery
- Burnt Timber Estate Winery
West Kelowna-Mount Boucherie
Quails Gate Winery
Quails’ Gate is a cornerstone of the Okanagan wine scene—family-owned, deeply rooted, and consistently excellent. Three generations have built this estate into the standout it is today, and it’s a must-see on my itinerary whenever I’m in the area.
I’ve been in love with Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir for well over two decades. You’ll find many of their wines in our home wine fridge, and lunch at Old Vines Restaurant—set just next to the tasting room—is one of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon in the valley.
The vineyards stretch along the slopes of Mount Boucherie, with sweeping views over Lake Okanagan. The estate’s Pinot Noir remains a benchmark, but their Chardonnays and aromatic whites are just as compelling. At Old Vines, seasonal, wine-driven menus showcase local ingredients and are best enjoyed on the patio with a glass in hand as the lake glows in the late-day sun.
Mission Hill Family Estate
One of the most recognizable names in Canadian wine, Mission Hill, is as much about the setting as it is about the wine. The hilltop estate overlooks Lake Okanagan with sweeping views, a grand bell tower, and one of the most architecturally striking wineries in the province. It’s a popular stop for good reason.
The estate’s flagship red, Oculus, earned a rare 100-point score in 2024—a milestone that cements its place among BC’s top-tier wines. Tastings range from casual to curated, and the Terrace Restaurant continues to be one of the best winery dining experiences in the Okanagan.
If you visit, I highly recommend tasting their estate wines.
Mt Boucherie Estate Winery
I visited Mt. Boucherie well over a decade before they broke ground on their 15,000-square-foot visitor center. I loved their humble beginnings and am thrilled to see them grow. Today, the sleek, modern tasting room sits high above the vineyards, with sweeping lake views and a polished lineup of estate wines.
Their portfolio spans everything from crisp whites to bold South Okanagan reds, and the on-site restaurant, The Modest Butcher, pairs it all with playful, wine-friendly fare. It’s a spot that still feels welcoming—just with a little more shine.
Also in this area:
- The Hatch Wines
- Volcanic Hills Estate Winery
- Beaumont Family Estate Winery
- Black Swift Vineyards
- Rollingdale Winery
- Indigenous World Winery
- Niche Wine Co.
- Tender Hope Winery
- Grizzli Winery
- Little Straw Vineyards
- Ciao Bella Winery
- Kalala Organic Estate Winery
- Off The Grid Organic Winery
Summerland-Peachland
Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards
Tucked into a bend along Highway 97 between Kelowna and Penticton, Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards is a standout stop on the lakeside stretch of the Okanagan. The family transformed the historic Greata Ranch into a focused, cool-climate estate specializing in traditional method sparkling wine—and they’ve done it with intention and charm.
The tasting room is just steps from the lake, surrounded by steeply sloped vines and uninterrupted views of the water. The vibe is relaxed but refined, with guided tastings that showcase both the sparkling lineup and small-lot still wines. Their signature Fitz Brut is a regional benchmark—crisp, elegant, and unmistakably Okanagan.
In summer, the on-site bistro serves up locally driven fare with patio views that make it hard to leave. It’s one of those rare spots where the setting, the wine, and the story all work harmoniously.
Garnet Valley Ranch
Just ten minutes from parent company Okanagan Crush Pad, Garnet Valley Ranch offers an entirely different pace—remote, rugged, and quietly spectacular. Co-owned by Christine Coletta and Steve Lornie, this 320-acre property feels more like a nature preserve than a traditional winery. Only 64 acres are under vine, with the rest left wild by design.
At elevations over 2,200 feet, the vineyard is the highest in the Okanagan, and the wines reflect that altitude: precise, mineral-driven, and restrained. The ranch produces just 350 cases annually, focusing on sustainability and minimal intervention. Winemaker Matt Dumayne sums it up best: “We’re not going to manipulate the earth. Our primary goal is to enhance the land and leave it in a better condition than what we found it.”
Guests can book intimate tastings in the minimalist hilltop structure or go deeper—on horseback or e-bike—to explore the rolling landscape and stop at scenic viewpoints. Wine club members can rent an Airstream trailer, spend the night under the stars, swim in the pond, or birdwatch among the property’s 75 recorded species.
The 2021 Garnet Valley Ranch Chardonnay is a standout. Whole-cluster pressed and aged in concrete and stainless steel, it’s golden-hued and vibrant, with tropical fruit and citrus and a clean, mineral finish.
Dirty Laundry Vineyard
Dirty Laundry has long embraced its cheeky side, playing up the property’s racy past as a former brothel and Chinese laundry with bold branding and a playful tasting room. But behind the wink and nod, there’s a serious commitment to quality winemaking—especially when it comes to their flagship Hush Rosé and the award-winning 2022 Gamay, which recently topped the Top 50 Wines in BC list.
The sprawling patio is a local favorite, buzzing through the summer with pizza, smoked meats, craft cider, and sangria—all served under a canopy of grapevines and cooled by misting fans. Events like Wine & Brine lobster dinners and Sangria Sundays keep the vibe lively, drawing both out-of-towners and regulars from down the road.
Dirty Laundry recently appeared on The Amazing Race Canada, where contestants stomped grapes and raced through the vineyard, re-creating quirky clotheslines. The wine draws people in, but it’s the energy, the stories, and the sense of fun that keeps them coming back.
Also, check out:
- 8th Generation Vineyard
- Giant Head Estate Winery
- Thornhaven Estates Winery
- Lightning Rock Winery
- Lunessence Winery
- Heaven’s Gate Estate Winery
- Silk Scarf Winery
- TH Wines
- Saxon Estate Winery
- Summer Gate Winery
- Okanagan Crush Pad Winery
- Back Door Winery
- Sage Hills Vineyard
- Summerland Estate Winery
- Savard Vines
- Hainle Vineyards
Penticton-Naramata
Da Silva Vineyards
Da Silva is one of those wineries that blends heritage, heart, and hospitality into every bottle. I first discovered their wines in 2010 at a wine pairing dinner in Kamloops, where the owner presented what was then known as Misconduct. Their Big Take red blend made a lasting impression—it still ranks among my personal favorites.
The winery has evolved since then, but the connection to family, farming, and culture remains at its core. We’ve been wine club members for years, and visiting the estate on the Naramata Bench always feels like a return to something grounded and genuine.
Our favorite way to experience Da Silva is on the terrace at The Kitchen, where their wines are paired with bold, flavorful dishes rooted in the owners’ Portuguese and Mexican heritage. Think grilled chorizo, fresh seafood, garden vegetables, and big reds that can stand up to it all. It’s a full-sensory experience—the kind of lunch that lingers into late afternoon, surrounded by vines and valley views.
With its small-lot wines, warm hospitality, and food that tells a story, Da Silva continues to be one of the most memorable stops on the Naramata Bench.
Poplar Grove Winery
With its striking modern architecture and panoramic views over Okanagan Lake, Poplar Grove is one of the most recognizable wineries on the Naramata Bench—and one of the most rewarding to visit. I first came for the Pinot Gris (still one of the best in the region), but I’ve returned again and again to explore the rest of their portfolio, especially the elegant and structured Cabernet Franc.
The winery is known for crafting age-worthy reds and crisp, expressive whites sourced from estate vineyards and carefully farmed blocks. Their tasting room is airy and sophisticated, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the lake and surrounding vineyards in every direction.
If you have time, stay for a meal at The Restaurant at Poplar Grove. The menu is seasonal and local, designed to highlight the wines without overshadowing them. Long lunches on the terrace here are a Penticton summer ritual.
Laughing Stock Vineyards
Perched high above Okanagan Lake, Laughing Stock Vineyards is equal parts precision and playfulness. Founded by a pair of former financial advisors who traded the stock market for the vineyard, the name may be tongue-in-cheek—but the wines are anything but.
Their flagship red blend, Portfolio, is consistently one of the Okanagan’s top Bordeaux-style wines—layered, structured, and built to age. The portfolio (no pun intended) also includes refined Syrah, Viognier, and Pinot Gris, each crafted with intention and a strong sense of place.
The labels themselves are a nod to the winery’s origins. Styled like ticker tape, they display the values of widely held stocks on the exact days the grapes were harvested—a clever, personal touch that sets them apart.
The tasting experience here is calm and focused, with small seated tastings that let the wines—and the views—take center stage. The patio offers one of the best vantage points on the Bench, especially in the late afternoon when the sun hits the lake just right.
Laughing Stock may have started with a name that raised eyebrows, but today, it’s one of the most respected producers in the valley. If you’re serious about wine—but still appreciate a little irreverence—it’s a stop worth savoring.
Also, in this area:
- Therapy Vineyards
- Evolve Cellars
- Four Shadows Vineyard
- Upper Bench Winery & Creamery
- Roche Winery & Vineyards
- Monster Vineyards
- Three Sisters Winery
- Township 7
- La Frenzy Winery
- Little Engine Wines
- Red Rooster Winery
- Ruby Blues Winery
- D’Angelo Estate Winery
- Lock & Worth Winery
- Howling Bluff Estate Winery
- Hillside Winery
- Origin Wines
- Black Widow Winery
- Tightrope Winery
- Bench 1775
- Moraine Winery
- Terravista Vineyards
- Lake Breeze Vineyards
- Lang Vineyards
- Deep Roots Winery
- Joie Farms
- Serendipity Winery
- Nichol Vineyard
Okanagan Falls
Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars
Tucked into a quiet corner near Okanagan Falls, Blue Mountain is one of BC’s most respected—and most serene—wine estates. I first toured this family-owned winery in the early 2000s, and I still remember that first drive out to the vineyard. Winding through back roads, past hayfields, and wooded hills, it remains one of the most peaceful approaches in BC wine country.
I’ve loved Blue Mountain’s sparkling wine for over two decades. Crisp, elegant, and consistently excellent, it was one of the first BC bubblies that genuinely impressed me. Returning to the estate now feels like revisiting an old friend—especially with a glass of their Pinot Gris or Pinot Noir in hand, surrounded by vineyard views and the natural stillness of the property.
Blue Mountain has built its reputation on restraint, precision, and a sense of place. The wines are made with intention—refined, food-friendly, and built to age. Tastings are offered by appointment in a relaxed, intimate setting that reflects the quiet confidence of the winery itself.
This is not a splashy, high-traffic stop. It’s a place for slowing down, savoring, and connecting with the land—precisely what makes it so special.
See Ya Later Ranch
High above the Okanagan Valley, See Ya Later Ranch delivers one of the most breathtaking views in BC wine country. Set atop Hawthorne Mountain, the winery pairs rustic charm with a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere—and a story that’s as memorable as the name.
Named after Major Hugh Fraser, the property’s original owner who famously left notes signed “See ya later” to his many romantic prospects, the winery leans into its history with a sense of humor and warmth. It’s a place where the dogs are welcome, the stories flow easily, and the wine is meant to be enjoyed without fuss.
The tasting room feels casual and unpretentious, but the wines are serious crowd-pleasers—especially their Gewürztraminer, Viognier, and approachable red blends. The patio bistro is a perfect midday stop, with hearty, wine-friendly fare and panoramic views that stretch across the valley and Skaha Lake far below.
Also in this area:
- Stags Hollow Winery
- Liquidity Wines
- Blasted Church Vineyards
- Nighthawk Vineyards
- Noble Ridge Vineyards
- Bonamici Cellars
- Wild Goose Winery
- Meyer Family Vineyards
- Echo Bay Vineyards
- Black Market Wine Co.
Oliver/Golden Mile
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards
Tinhorn Creek has been a staple on our Okanagan itinerary for over two decades. I first toured the winery in the early 2000s—before the spectacular Miradoro Restaurant opened—and it’s been a favorite ever since.
Set on the sun-drenched slopes of the Golden Mile Bench, Tinhorn Creek blends approachability with authenticity. The wines are reliably well-crafted, from their crisp Pinot Gris to their structured Cab Franc, and the tasting room offers sweeping views over the valley below. But what makes this spot even more special is the chance to pair great wine with an even greater walk.
On our last visit, we stopped in before the doors opened to hike the Golden Mile Trail, which begins right at the property. The trail winds through sagebrush and vineyards, offering gorgeous views of the South Okanagan and the occasional wildlife sighting—so bring water and a camera. It’s the perfect way to shake off any lingering wine hangovers and reconnect with the landscape.
After the hike, a tasting and lunch at Miradoro is the ultimate reward. With panoramic valley views and Mediterranean-inspired dishes built for wine pairing, it’s an unbeatable way to start your day on the Golden Mile.
Maverick Estate Winery
Maverick may be small in size, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to quality and character. We’d listened to friends rave about Maverick wines for over a year before finally stopping in—and now it’s become one of those must-visit gems we recommend to anyone heading south.
The winery sits just off the highway near Oliver, tucked into a quiet, unassuming spot that reflects its understated charm. The focus here is on small-lot winemaking with a European sensibility—clean, precise, and expressive. Their Syrah and Pinot Noir are standout reds, while the Origin white blend offers bright, mineral-driven complexity that lingers long after the last sip.
Tastings are intimate and relaxed, often hosted by someone directly connected to the vineyard or cellar. It’s the kind of experience that feels personal, thoughtful, and quietly confident—no flash, just excellent wine and genuine hospitality.
Maverick may not shout for your attention, but once you’ve tasted their wines, you’ll understand why it’s one of the South Okanagan’s most beloved hidden gems.
Hester Creek
Hester Creek is one of those rare wineries that delivers on every level: the wine, the food, the setting—even the stay. First off, their wines are a staple in our home. Reliable, food-friendly, and beautifully crafted, they’re the kind of bottles we reach for again and again.
Secondly, their on-site restaurant Terrafina is one of our absolute favorites in the South Okanagan. With Tuscan-inspired dishes, a sun-dappled courtyard, and wine pairings that highlight the best of the estate, it’s a place that turns lunch into something memorable.
And thirdly, their Villa suites—perched on the hillside above the vines—offer one of the most peaceful overnight stays in BC wine country. With private patios, vineyard views, and early access to the estate, they round out the Hester Creek experience in the best possible way.
Culmina Family Estate Winery
Sometimes, the best discoveries are unplanned. Our first visit to Culmina was a last-minute decision—an impromptu stop after leaving a nearby winery—and it turned out to be one of our favorites of the day. We learned the story of the estate, the meticulous attention to terroir, and the legacy behind the wines—but in a way that was informative, engaging, and genuinely fascinating.
Perched on the Golden Mile Bench, Culmina is a precision-driven estate founded by the Triggs family (of Jackson-Triggs fame), where every detail—from planting decisions to cellar techniques—has been carefully considered. The result? Elegant, structured wines that reflect the complexity of their hillside vineyards.
Tastings here are thoughtful and relaxed, often seated, with sweeping views of the South Okanagan. Their Bordeaux-style blend Hypothesis stands out alongside beautiful Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay expressions.
Culmina manages to strike that rare balance: a place of serious winemaking and deep intent without ever feeling pretentious. It’s a winery we’re always glad to have stumbled upon—and now make a point to return to.
Also in this area:
- Checkmate Artisanal Winery
- Kistmet Estate Winery (Masala Bistro on-premises)
- Gehringer Brothers
- Jackson-Triggs Winery
- Cassini Cellars
- Hidden Chapel Winery
- Road 13 Vineyards
- Rust Wine Co.
- Castoro de Oro Estate Winery
- Gold Hill Winery
- River Stone Estate Winery
Black Sage/Osoyoos
Phantom Creek Estates
Phantom Creek Estates makes a bold statement the moment you arrive. With its sweeping architecture, commanding hilltop views, and world-class hospitality, this winery is among the most exciting additions to BC’s wine country in recent years.
We had the pleasure of visiting during their opening weekend this summer, and it made such an impression that we returned again during harvest for the Founder’s Cellar Experience—an unforgettable deep dive into their portfolio that included a five-course curated dinner and wine pairing. It was here that I fell in love with their 2017 Kobau Merlot—layered, expressive, and absolutely stunning. I also left with an entire case of their Rosé, a crisp and elegant standout that’s become a seasonal favorite.
This winery invites you to slow down and stay awhile. I highly recommend spending extra time exploring the vineyard, taking in the striking art installations, and lounging in their sun-soaked amphitheater, which feels tailor-made for long afternoons with a glass in hand.
Phantom Creek balances ambition with precision—producing age-worthy reds and textured whites from some of the South Okanagan’s most coveted vineyard sites. From the cellar to the terrace, it’s a polished, immersive experience that redefines luxury in BC wine country.
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
Burrowing Owl is more than just a winery for us—it’s where we choose to stay when we retreat to the Southern Okanagan. We’re obsessed with their port-style wine, Coruja—rich, complex, and perfect for lingering over after dinner.
Their Merlot has also become a staple among our circle of friends, consistently impressive with its depth and drinkability. Over the years, we’ve enjoyed the Ultimate Tour & Tasting and The Connoisseur Tasting, each offering a thoughtful dive into the winery’s story and philosophy.
Staying at The Guest House means waking up to vineyard views and slipping into a slower rhythm. Dinner at The Sonora Room, their on-site restaurant, is always a highlight—elevated, local, and perfectly paired with the estate wines. And for those making the trek from Vancouver or the North Okanagan, as we do, the Tesla chargers on-site are a very welcome bonus.
I can’t speak highly enough of our experiences here. Burrowing Owl blends world-class wine, exceptional dining, and a serene overnight stay into one unforgettable package.
Platinum Bench Estate Winery & Artisan Bread Co.
As the signs say, we came for the bread and stayed for the wine. Platinum Bench is famous for its artisan loaves, baked fresh each morning and paired with its estate wines in a way that feels both indulgent and down-to-earth. If you want to snag a loaf (or three), plan to arrive before noon—they almost always sell out, and for good reason.
But this little winery isn’t just about the bread. Platinum Bench produces a solid lineup of small-lot wines, especially bold, fruit-forward reds with a loyal following. I love their red blends, which pair perfectly with their legendary double cream brie and jalapeño cheese loaf—trust me.
The setting is casual and welcoming, with tastings often hosted by the owners themselves. It’s the kind of place that flies under the radar but sticks with you. Even Jillian Harris has named it a favorite—and once you’ve sipped and snacked your way through a visit, you’ll understand why.
Lariana Cellars
Tucked just north of the U.S. border, Lariana Cellars is one of the South Okanagan’s best-kept secrets—and precisely the kind of under-the-radar gem that wine lovers hope to stumble upon. Small, focused, and family-run, Lariana has quietly built a reputation for crafting robust, expressive wines with a distinctly modern edge.
The winery is housed in a sleek, minimalist structure that reflects its no-nonsense approach to winemaking. Here, the emphasis is on quality over quantity, with a strong focus on Bordeaux varietals and bold reds that consistently overdeliver. Their Carmenère, in particular, stands out—concentrated, silky, and rarely seen in this part of the world.
Tastings are intimate and thoughtful, allowing visitors to connect with the people behind the wines. There’s no restaurant, no elaborate setup—just great wine, a stunning vineyard backdrop, and a sense of calm that lingers long after your visit.
For those seeking depth, authenticity, and a bit of discovery, Lariana is one of the most compelling small producers in the Okanagan.
LaStella Winery
LaStella brings a touch of Tuscany to the South Okanagan, with Mediterranean-inspired architecture, warm hospitality, and wines that feel like they belong on a sun-drenched patio overlooking the Italian countryside. We were introduced to LaStella by friends who are members of their sought-after LaStella Society Club, which currently has a two-to-three-year waiting list—and after our first visit, we understood why.
Perched on the east side of Osoyoos Lake, LaStella focuses on old-world elegance with new-world confidence. Their wines are expressive and polished, with a strong emphasis on Italian varietals and Bordeaux-style reds. From the bright and floral Vivace Pinot Grigio to the bold and structured Fortissimo, there’s a sophistication to the entire lineup that’s unmistakable.
Tastings are by appointment and often private, creating a relaxed, immersive experience that lets you take in both the wines and the view. It’s one of those rare places that feels luxurious without being overly formal—a little slice of Tuscany, just minutes from the U.S. border.
Mooncurser Vineyards
Mooncurser doesn’t play by the usual rules—and that’s exactly what makes it so memorable. Known for producing some of the Okanagan’s most adventurous and intriguing wines, this small, family-run winery has built a cult following by leaning into lesser-known varietals and a delightfully rebellious spirit.
I was first introduced to Mooncurser years ago when my BFF brought a bottle of one of their reds to a dinner party. Since then, she’s shown up with many more, and we’ve enjoyed every single one—each bottle as bold and unexpected as the last.
The name itself is a nod to Osoyoos’ smuggling past, and the labels are as cheeky as the wines are serious. Expect to find Touriga Nacional, Tempranillo, Tannat, and Carmenère on the tasting list—grapes rarely seen elsewhere in BC, handled here with confidence and flair.
Tastings are casual but informative, with stunning views of the South Okanagan desert hills and lake below. If you’re looking to explore beyond the expected, Mooncurser is a must—one of the most distinctive and consistently rewarding stops on the southern wine trail.Also in this area:
- Quinta Ferreira Estate Winery
- Le Vieux Pin Winery
- French Door Winery
- Oliver Twist Winery
- Silver Sage Winery
- Bartier Bros Vineyard & Winery
- Here’s the Thing Vineyards
- Church and State Wines
- Black Hills Winery
- Desert Hills Estate Winery
- Nk’Mip Cellars (Patio Restaurant on premises)
- Adega on 45th Estate Winery
- Lakeside Cellars
- Blue Sky Estate Winery
- Bordertown Cider & Winery
- Young & Wyse Collection
What to bring on your tour of the Best BC Wineries
BC’s Okanagan region is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, but each season brings many different temperatures. Despite the cold winters, this area sees amazing summers full of sunshine and hot temperatures (for Canada!).
If you are visiting during the spring and fall, it is always a good idea to pack a light sweater, as the evenings can get a little breezy. Pack comfortable, stylish shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking and tasting. Don’t forget your sunglasses, especially during the summer months.
And most importantly, I highly recommend bringing one or two styrofoam wine carriers with you. The last thing you want is your new favorite wines to be rolling around or constantly rattling in your trunk.
If you are flying, consider buying some wine-shaped bubble wrap so you can safely protect your bottles in your suitcase.
Thompson/Okanagan Wineries
The Southern Okanagan wineries always get the most attention but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention some amazing, up and coming wineries in the Thompson-Okanagan region.
Monte Creek Ranch
Monte Creek Ranch is proof that world-class wine isn’t limited to the Okanagan. Located just outside Kamloops, this frontier-inspired estate has helped put the Thompson Valley on the BC wine map with its bold vision, experimental spirit, and striking views over the South Thompson River.
Set on land once roamed by cattle rustlers and explorers, Monte Creek blends pioneering history with forward-thinking winemaking. The estate pushes boundaries with cool-climate varietals like Frontenac Blanc, La Crescent, and Marquette, alongside crisp Rieslings, expressive Pinot Gris, and fruit-forward Rosés. Their dedication to sustainable farming and regenerative viticulture is another reason to pay attention.
The tasting room is bright and welcoming, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the surrounding vineyards and hills. In summer, the terrace is the perfect spot for a glass and a locally inspired lunch, with a bistro menu that changes with the season.
Monte Creek is an easy stop just off the highway, but it feels like a destination all its own—a place where the future of BC wine is unfolding in real-time.
Privato Vineyard and Winery
Privato is one of Kamloops’ best-kept secrets—a boutique, family-run winery that feels more like a hidden garden than a traditional tasting room. Tucked into the rolling hills just outside the city, this intimate estate combines small-lot winemaking with warm, personal hospitality, making every visit feel like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home.
Focused on Burgundian-style Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Privato produces elegant, finely crafted wines that reflect the cool climate and the care that goes into every bottle. The tasting experience is peaceful and unhurried, often surrounded by curated gardens and old-growth trees that create a sense of quiet escape.
Seasonal events, including live music evenings and holiday markets, give the winery a strong sense of community while showcasing its versatility as both a wine destination and a gathering place. Whether you’re local or passing through, Privato offers something increasingly rare in wine country—tranquility, intimacy, and a clear passion for the land.
It goes without saying that I love BC’s wine country—its people, its landscapes, and, of course, its wines. Whether popping in for a spontaneous tasting or planning a weekend escape, exploring our province’s vineyards is one of the best ways to experience British Columbia at its most vibrant. So pick a region, book a tasting (or three), and get ready to sip your way through some of Canada’s most unforgettable wine experiences.
