Guide to the Best Wineries in Okanagan Valley by A Local (with Map)
If you’re looking for the best wineries in the Okanagan Valley, you’ve landed in the right vineyard. We’ve lived in the Okanagan for over four years now and have personally visited every winery on this list. Add to that the fact that I recently completed my WSET Level 2 in Wines (yes, I took wine tasting seriously!), and you can trust that these picks are coming from both experience and education. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a passionate wine lover, this guide to the best wineries in the Okanagan Valley is designed to help you discover the most exceptional tasting experiences across this stunning region.
So grab a glass (or two), and let’s dive into our personal Okanagan wine tour, one vineyard at a time.
A Quick Sip of History
The Okanagan Valley wasn’t always Canada’s premier wine destination. In fact, until the 1990s, it was mostly known for fruit orchards. But things started changing fast, thanks to passionate growers, winemakers, and a perfect blend of geography and climate. Today, Okanagan wines have gained global recognition, especially for varietals like Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Pinot Noir. It’s now home to some of the best wineries in the Okanagan Valley, each with its own charm, terroir and story to tell.
North vs. South Okanagan: What’s the Difference?
Okanagan Lake stretches for about 135 kilometers, from Vernon in the north all the way down to Penticton. This long, narrow lake influences the microclimates along its shores, making the valley incredibly diverse in both grape growing and wine styles.
North Okanagan (includes Lake Country, Kelowna, Summerland and West Kelowna) – is cooler, with more elevation and complex soils. Expect crisp whites, sparkling wines and elegant Pinot Noirs here.
South Okanagan (includes Naramata Bench, Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Osoyoos) – is hotter and drier, which means bold reds like Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot thrive. Fun fact: this is also home to Canada’s only desert.
Wine Regions of the Okanagan Valley
We’ve explored every corner of the valley and the major wine-growing regions include:
- Lake Country
- Kelowna
- West Kelowna
- Peachland/Summerland
- Naramata Bench
- Okanagan Falls
- Oliver/Osoyoos
Each of these has a unique character, shaped by soil, climate, and winemaking philosophy. Let’s dive into our favorite picks in each region.
Best Wineries in the Okanagan Valley by Region
Lake Country
Gray Monk Estate Winery
Gray Monk is where we fell in love with Pinot Gris who are also the pioneers of Pinot Gris in BC. As one of the valley’s oldest wineries, it’s practically a rite of passage for wine lovers visiting Lake Country. Their summer patio has panoramic views over Okanagan Lake, and their crisp, aromatic whites are perfect for sipping in the sunshine. If you’re visiting during summer, check out their wine garden for a casual and scenic tasting experience.
Arrowleaf Cellars
Arrowleaf is a Lake Country gem. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to spend hours, thanks to its large picnic area overlooking the lake and a welcoming tasting room that feels more boutique than corporate. Their Riesling is off-dry and beautifully balanced with acidity. You’ll find yourself grabbing a few bottles for later.
Personal Tip: On a warm summer day, there’s nothing better than picking up a bottle of their sparkling rosé and ready-to-go picnic box with cheese and charcuterie enjoying a laid-back picnic on the lawn.
Kelowna
Tantalus Vineyards
Tantalus is where terroir speaks volumes. Known for its exceptional Riesling, this sustainably managed vineyard sits high on the slopes, with views stretching down the valley. The wines here are as elegant as they come. We love visiting in the winter, when the tasting room feels cozy with its fireplace ambiance. As well as in the summer with the panoramic views from their patio!
CedarCreek Estate Winery
CedarCreek is a must-visit if you’re in Kelowna. Perched on the hillside, their property is stunning and their hospitality always warm. Their Platinum series wines are excellent, and they offer one of the best food pairings in the region through their Home Block restaurant. We love their Pinot Noir, it’s our favourite in the valley. It’s also a great place to book a guided tasting for a deep dive into their small-lot wines.
In the winters they offer Red wine and S’mores tasting which is an experience of its own!
Related Read: Don’t forget to check out our Guide to Winery Restaurants in Kelowna for more delicious stops.
West Kelowna
Mission Hill
These two iconic wineries are just minutes apart and offer the ultimate wine-tasting combo. Mission Hill feels like stepping into a European estate, with its dramatic architecture and lush grounds. Their Oculus blend is great, and the Terrace restaurant is one of the best spots for a sunset dinner.
Quails’ Gate
Just down the hill, Quails’ Gate welcomes you with warm hospitality and spectacular lake views. This is the only winery in the valley which is still family-owned. Their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir consistently shine, and the Old Vines Restaurant is a perfect way to end your tasting on a culinary high.
Frind Estate Winery
Located right on the beach, Frind is Canada’s first beachfront winery and yes, it’s just as cool as it sounds. The vibe is relaxed, the setting is unbeatable and their wines surprise you in the best way. Their Rose and Pinot Gris are great choices for summer sipping on their picnic area. They often have mulled wine and festive events around the holidays.
Related Read: Don’t miss our West Kelowna Wine Trail Guide for more suggestions.
Peachland/Summerland
Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards
Nestled at the base of Giant’s Head Mountain, Fitzpatrick is a sparkling wine lover’s dream. Their Fitz Brut is made in the traditional method (à la Champagne), and the views from their terrace are some of our favorites. Come in the warmer months to enjoy their panoramic patio and pair your tasting with a cheese board for a full afternoon of indulgence.
Sage Hills Estate Winery
Sage Hills is a boutique, certified organic winery in Summerland that takes sustainability seriously. The vineyard is perched on the hillside with beautiful lake views, and the wines are crafted with minimal intervention. Their Pinot Noir and Rosé are our personal favorites, and they often host relaxed, intimate tastings where you can really connect with the story behind the wine.
Naramata Bench
Poplar Grove
This is one of Naramata’s most iconic names and one of our favourites. Their wines are bold and expressive especially the Legacy, a Bordeaux-style red blend (typically composed of a mix of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot). The Restaurant at Poplar Grove, make this a perfect spot to linger over a glass and take in the Naramata magic.
Roche Wines
A small, family-run gem with French roots and a focus on low-intervention, terroir-driven wines. The experience here feels intimate and personal, with tastings often led by one of the owners themselves. Their Tradition Pinot Noir and Tradition Chardonnay are standouts. The minimalist tasting room lets the wine do all the talking and it’s a great stop if you’re looking for authenticity and finesse.
Related Read: Check out our full Naramata Wineries Blog for an extended list and deeper insights into the region’s standout wineries.
Okanagan Falls
Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery
If you love sparkling wines and bold reds, Noble Ridge needs to be on your radar. Their King’s Ransom series is for the collectors, while their bubbly is perfect for toasting a special occasion. The vineyard overlooks the valley, and it’s breathtaking at sunset. You can pick up a bottle, grab a spot with a view, and enjoy a picnic. Then sit back, sip, and soak in the breathtaking surroundings.
Liquidity Wines
Art lovers and wine lovers unite at Liquidity. The tasting room doubles as a gallery, and the sculpture garden outside makes this a winery that lingers in your memory. Their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are standout, and summer is the best time to enjoy a tasting on their patio. Their Epicurean Alchemy tasting which is a food and wine pairing tasting, is one of my favourites!
Oliver/Osoyoos
Road 13 Vineyards
Road 13 has a loyal following and for good reason, it’s their Castle tasting room that makes the visit special. Their Chenin Blanc is a standout, fresh, vibrant, and beautifully textured. It’s crafted from some of the oldest Chenin Blanc vines in North America, giving the wine incredible depth and minerality. It’s quirky, fun, and full of personality, just like their wines.
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
Burrowing Owl is known for its bold, full-bodied reds. Their Cabernet Franc is a particular standout, rich, earthy and deeply structured, it’s a wine that lingers in your memory long after the last sip. The winery itself is a destination, complete with a cozy inn and the exceptional Sonora Room restaurant. Whether you’re going for a tasting or a wine-paired lunch, it’s the kind of place that makes an impression and keeps you coming back.
Nk’Mip Cellars
Nk’Mip (pronounced “in-ka-meep”) is North America’s first Indigenous-owned winery, and visiting here is both a cultural and oenological experience. Their Qwam Qwmt (pronounced kw-em kw-empt) series is particularly impressive as they are 40 year old vineyards, and the setting among the desert landscape is otherworldly.
While you’re there, be sure to visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, where you can learn about the land’s deep Indigenous heritage and the traditions of the Osoyoos Indian Band.
Black Hills Estate Winery
Black Hills is iconic for a reason, it’s the home of the legendary Nota Bene, a bold Bordeaux-style red blend that put South Okanagan wines on the map. The patio tasting experience here is elevated but unpretentious, and the vineyard views stretch across the sun-soaked valley. It’s a favorite for anyone serious about reds. Don’t miss the views from the vineyard, it’s one of the most photogenic spots in Oliver.
Our Top 6 Best Wineries in the Okanagan Valley
We love all the wineries above, but if we had to choose our absolute favorites that we keep going back to:
- CedarCreek (Kelowna) – The combination of wine, views and food is hard to beat
- Frind (West Kelowna) – Beachfront and laid-back vibes, summer perfection
- Gray Monk (Lake Country) – Their Pinot Gris never disappoints
- Fitzpatrick (Summerland) – Always our go-to for celebrations
- Poplar Grove (Naramata) – Rustic, genuine, and quietly brilliant
- Nk’Mip (Osoyoos) – Deep wines and a powerful cultural experience
Final Thoughts: Cheers from the Valley
Exploring the best wineries in the Okanagan Valley is more than just a tasting experience. It’s a journey through landscapes, stories, and local passion. Whether you’re planning a weekend wine getaway or a full-on Okanagan wine road trip, we hope this guide gives you a great starting point.
Raise a glass to wine, wanderlust, and this beautiful valley we call home. 🍷
