Best Distilleries in Kelowna: 4 Top Distilleries to Visit

Kelowna’s world-class wineries may have earned this stunning city notoriety, but its lesser-known but equally innovative distilleries also have a lot to offer. From Urban Distilleries & Winery's award-winning spirits to Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery's dedication to local ingredients, each distillery offers a unique experience. Forbidden Spirits Distilling Co. takes a creative twist with apple-based concoctions. Discover Kelowna’s top best distilleries and the stories behind their craft that make each spot unique.

Highlights of Kelowna Distilleries

• Urban Distilleries & Winery offers award-winning spirits and engaging tasting experiences with a focus on sustainability.
• Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery is a pioneer with more than 30 international accolades and a commitment to community support.
• Forbidden Spirits Distilling Co. is renowned for its innovative apple-based spirits and exceptionally smooth Rebel Vodka.
• The View Winery & Vineyard combines sustainable practices with award-winning wines and premium ciders from East Kelowna Cider Company.

Urban Distilleries & Winery

Urban Distilleries & Winery, located in the heart of Downtown Kelowna, is a must-visit destination for craft spirit enthusiasts. As Kelowna's original craft distillery, it has been perfecting the art of craft distilling for over a decade. Here, you'll find a unique selection of award-winning spirits made from premium local ingredients. The distillery takes pride in its use of traditional copper stills, ensuring each batch reflects the highest quality and craftsmanship.

This distillery is best known for its unique Urban Burban, a bourbon with caramel notes; The North Calls Dill Pickle Vodka; and the Urbana Limoncello. When you visit Urban Distilleries & Winery, you're not just sampling spirits; you're experiencing a journey through the craft distilling process. Its commitment to using locally sourced fruits and grains results in flavours that capture the essence of the Okanagan region. You'll have the chance to explore this through engaging tasting experiences, where handcrafted cocktails are perfectly paired with artisanal bites.

For a night out, Urban Distilleries has a cocktail lounge with an elevated food and drinks menu after 5:00 p.m. Booking a tour is easy with their online reservation system, allowing you to explore the world of distillation. Each tour offers insight into their sustainable practices and community engagement, which enhances Kelowna’s economy through tourism. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Urban Distilleries & Winery offers an unforgettable taste of Kelowna's vibrant distilling scene.

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery excels in the craft distilling scene. It is Western Canada's original craft distillery with more than 15 years of expertise. If you're visiting or living in downtown Kelowna, you'll want to check out this renowned distillery, celebrated for its dedication to quality and sustainability. This distillery uses 100% locally grown fruits and grains, giving its spirits a distinct Okanagan flavour that you won't find elsewhere.

When you step into their tasting room in downtown Kelowna, open daily, you're in for a treat. Sample their award-winning products, which have garnered more than 30 international accolades, including honours from the prestigious World Spirit Awards. These accolades confirm their craftsmanship and the rich flavours they derive from local ingredients.

Beyond just creating exceptional spirits, Okanagan Spirits also plays an essential role in the community. So, if you're looking to explore the best of Kelowna's craft distillery scene, Okanagan Spirits is truly a must-visit.

Forbidden Spirits Distilling Co.

Forbidden Spirits Distilling Co. is a standout in Kelowna's craft distilling scene. It is known for its innovative use of locally sourced apples to create small-batch spirits. If you're passionate about the art of craft distilling, this Southeast Kelowna spot is a must-visit. 

Its signature product, Rebel Vodka, showcases its dedication to refinement, being distilled 25 times. This meticulous process results in an exceptionally smooth and flavorful spirit that reflects the purity and natural essence of the Okanagan Valley.

When you visit Forbidden Spirits, you'll not only taste the quality but also experience their deep-rooted connection to the community. Open seven days a week, the distillery invites you to explore its range of offerings through tastings and purchases. The narrative behind their creations is inspired by the story of Adam and Eve, adding an intriguing layer to your tasting experience.

The View Winery & Vineyard

Offering stunning panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains, The View Winery & Vineyard is a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast. While not a distillery, this winery also produces delicious ciders, making it more of a jack of all trades. When you step onto the winery's grounds, you're greeted by breathtaking scenery and an enticing selection of high-quality, award-winning wines. The winery uses grapes sourced both from its own vineyards and local growers, ensuring each bottle captures the unique essence of the region.

You'll appreciate their commitment to sustainable farming practices, which not only protect the environment but also enhance the health and flavour of their grapes. As you explore their offerings, you'll discover a variety of tasting experiences that emphasize the distinctive terroir of the Okanagan Valley, highlighting the complex flavours imparted by the local climate and soil.

The View Winery & Vineyard is located on the city’s southern side amid some of the most luxurious single-family homes in Kelowna. It also hosts many events throughout the year, from wine tastings and vineyard tours to educational workshops that investigate the intricacies of wine production. These events offer a deeper understanding of their craft and a chance to experience the vibrant wine culture of Kelowna. Don't miss the opportunity to savour what The View Winery & Vineyard has to offer.

Explore the Best Distilleries in Kelowna

Spend a weekend exploring Kelwona’s top distilleries. Sample locally produced beer, wine, and spirits, exploring the flavours that are common in the region. Offering scenic views and regular tastings, these distillers offer an enjoyable experience complete with a cocktail, beer, or wine to suit your preferences. Enjoy the best of Kelowna’s distilleries. 

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