Best Wineries in Kelowna BC: Wining & Dining Destinations

Posted by Dave Kotler on Wednesday, July 5th, 2023 at 9:06am.

Best Vineyards & Wineries in Kelowna

Nestled in the renowned Okanagan Valley wine region, the city of Kelowna is home to over 40 vineyards. More than just a hub of wineries and tasting rooms, Kelowna is the birthplace of British Columbia's winemaking industry. Whether you prefer to spend a day sipping your favourite local wine while taking in views of Okanagan Lake or you want to discover new varietals through tastings and Kelowna wine tours, this city's award-winning vineyards have you covered.

While Kelowna is known for its wineries, don't forget about the excellent fine dining restaurants as well. Kelowna's best wineries and fine dining restaurants shouldn't be missed on any outing in the city.

the hatch

The hatch sits on the western shores of Okanagan Lake, a nine-kilometre drive from downtown in West Kelowna. This laid-back winery has a playful energy that challenges the traditional image of winemaking. With winemaker Jason Parkes at the helm, the hatch's wines celebrate Canada's unique flora, fauna, and culture.

In addition to its core wines, the hatch's lineup includes two other collections: Gobsmacked and Hobo. Cheeky names like 'A gris to disagree' and 'Check your côte at the d'or' never fail to produce a smile. All labels are hand-crafted by artist Paul Morstad.

The hatch's bar and tasting room sit on the vineyard grounds with a nice blend of indoor and outdoor seating. It's open daily and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted.

In addition to live music, the hatch co-hosts a popular weekly brunch on Sundays with another Kelowna winery, Black Swift Vineyards. Each admission ticket into "Hangover Church" gets you a mimosa, a wine tasting, and a legendary Hangover Buddy sandwich.

the hatch Additional Information

  • Address: the hatch, 3225 Boucherie Rd, Kelowna, BC V1Z 2G9
  • Hours: Friday–Wednesday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. / Thursday 11 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
  • Phone: 778-755-6013

Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery

Noble Ridge is located atop a hill overlooking Oliver Ranch Road in Okanagan Falls, with breathtaking views of Peach Cliff to the north and Vaseux Lake and McIntyre Bluff to the south. This winery produces Bordeaux reds from its southern-exposed vineyards, while northern-facing land yields Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer and Sparkling wine. The estate producer relies solely on their own grapes for an annual production of around 6,000 cases.

Noble Ridge takes its name from the esteemed grape varieties cultivated here, as well as the ridge that divides its flourishing land. Their mission is to craft extraordinary wines that embody their namesake. From new plantings to their inaugural vintages crafted under guidance from a consulting winemaker - every step has been taken with passion for producing superb wines year after year.

Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery, 2320 Oliver Ranch Rd, Okanagan Falls, BC V0H 1R2
  • Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Phone: 250-497-7945

Nighthawk Vineyards

Nestled above Okanagan Falls, Nighthawk Vineyards is a truly enchanting destination where visitors can experience a unique terroir that creates exceptional grape-growing conditions and delight in the return of graceful Nighthawks every spring to nest during the growing season. Over fourteen years have yielded some of the finest produce, each vintage expressing its own special character. Daniel & Christy Bibby, along with their children, take great pride in sharing these limited batches with visitors who come to experience their passion.

Nighthawk Vineyards Additional Information

  • Address: 2735 Green Lake Rd, Okanagan Falls, BC V0H 1R2
  • Hours: Thursday-Tuesday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Closed on Wednesdays
  • Phone: 250-497-8874

Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Best Wineries in Kelowna, BC

Canada's largest organic winery, Summerhill Pyramid Winery, is six miles south of downtown Kelowna at the base of Kelowna Mountain. Grapes are grown using various organic and biodynamic techniques, resulting in natural fermentation and exceptionally high levels of antioxidants. The winery is also consistently recognized for its sustainability efforts.

Perhaps most notable is the wines' finishing process. In homage to its namesake, Summerhill Pyramid ages wine in its Pyramid Cellar, which was constructed using ancient Sacred Geometry principles.

The winery is open for tastings seven days a week all year. Reservations aren't required, but the Pyramid Experience Tour comes with a small fee. However, this fee is waived for guests who dine in the bistro.

For the ultimate wine experience at Summerhill Pyramid, book a Sensory Sit-Down Tasting. Thoughtfully pairing top-tier wines with innovative, organic small plates, it's perfect for special occasions.

An extensive wine store has Summerhill Pyramid's array of classic white, red, sparkling, iced, and limited vintage wines. Wine Club members receive exclusive benefits, including quarterly shipments, invitations to special events, and discounts at the bistro.

Summerhill Pyramid Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Summerhill Pyramid Winery, 4870 Chute Lake Rd, Kelowna, BC V1W 4M3
  • Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Daily
  • Phone: (800) 667-3538

Frind Estate Winery

Another West Kelowna establishment, Frind Estate Winery, is well-known for two unique points: it occupies the historic Bennett Property, the first-ever beachfront winery in North America, and is owned by Markus Frind, founder of the famous dating app Plenty of Fish. The winery is the direct result of a fusion of Frind's two passions: technology and agriculture.

Frind himself hails from a family farming for over five centuries. Today, his winery is one of the most technologically advanced in the world, incorporating state-of-the-art techniques and equipment. For example, vintners use custom-designed tanks to produce superior small-batch wines.

Frind Estate features a robust selection of reds, whites, rosès, and sparkling wines. Six vineyards are across West Kelowna, along with Annie's Beach Café, the private tasting room and restaurant. Anyone may drop in for a wine tasting daily, and wine club members (with up to five guests) always receive complimentary tastings.

While everyone is encouraged to walk in, restaurant reservations at Annie's are only available for wine club members. The extensive menu features elevated classic pub fare, like wood-fired pizzas, burgers, salads, and soups. Children are welcome at this winery.

Frind Estate Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Frind Estate Winery, 3725 Boucherie Rd, West Kelowna, BC V4T 0A8
  • Hours: Monday–Thursday 8 a.m–6 p.m. / Friday–Sunday 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
  • Phone: 778-754-1118

BC Wine Studio

At BC Wine Studio, it is not just about tasting but also an immersive experience where you can witness firsthand how quality wines are made. From picking to pressing to aging, each step is carefully monitored throughout the entire process. With over ten years of winemaking expertise under its belt, this boutique winery has earned its reputation for producing some of Canada's finest wines with incredible balance and complexity.

Relaxing against lush vines as you sip on one of their exquisite blends will make your visit even more enjoyable! As you explore the winery, you may also be welcomed by three delightful dogs - Bubbles, Ruby, and Grapes - either relaxing in the vineyard or popping by to offer a friendly greeting. Enjoy the stunning views of rolling hills around as your sample these exquisite wines in a picture-perfect location.

BC Wine Studio Additional Information

  • Address: BC Wine Studio, 2434 Oliver Ranch Rd, Okanagan Falls, BC V0H 1R2
  • Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Tuesday 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
  • Phone: 250-689-7980

Tantalus Vineyards

Five miles from downtown, Tantalus Vineyards is a chic, contemporary winery in Southeast Kelowna. The vineyard, winery, and tasting room are perched above the lake and city on the eastern slope of the Okanagan Valley, offering visitors sweeping views.

The property dates back to 1927, when it was the home of Pioneer Vineyards' table grapes. Back then, the vineyard was headed by esteemed horticulturist JW Hughes. It became Tantalus in 2004 when current proprietor Eric Savics purchased the property.

Using well-established vine plantings from 1978 and 1985, Savics turned his attention to producing boutique, terroir-focused wines made from mature Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay grapes. In particular, the vineyard's citrus-based riesling is consistently widely-acclaimed.

Tantalus hosts guided wine tastings throughout the year, although exact dates and times are subject to the season. Packages include the flagship tasting flight, small lot tasting experiences, and a comprehensive "Bees and Barrels" vineyard and facility tour. The current season's tasting and tour schedule is available on Tantalus' website. Appointments are encouraged, particularly for weekend visits.

Tantalus Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Tantalus Winery, 1670 DeHart Rd, Kelowna, BC V1W 4N6
  • Hours: Closed Tuesday & Wednesday / Thursday–Monday 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
  • Phone: 250-764-0078

Silver Sage Winery

Discover the exquisite wines of Silver Sage Winery, crafted with four generations of winemaking expertise and an unwavering passion for excellence. Enjoy a unique experience as you sample their premium Pinot Blanc, Merlot, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Noir wines or explore their innovative fruit wines made from blueberries, raspberries, cherries, and peach/apricots.

The former proprietor, Victor, managed his own vineyard in Europe before they moved to BC. Their dream was fulfilled when they purchased 25 acres of land in Okanagan in 1996 and transformed it into a thriving vineyard. Tragically Victor's life was cut short, but Anna continues to fulfill their shared dream - bringing this special place to life. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled atmosphere at Silver Sage Winery, and you're sure to have a wonderful experience.

Silver Sage Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Silver Sage Winery, 4852 Ryegrass Rd, Oliver, BC V0H 1T0
  • Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
  • Phone: 250-498-0310

Rollingdale Winery

Where are the Best Wineries in Kelowna, BC?

Look no further if you're searching for one of the most picturesque wineries in West Kelowna. Rollingdale Winery is a family-owned, organic farm gate establishment offering tastings and cellar tours in its down-to-earth tasting room.

The winery occupies a former fruit orchard, a testament to its fertile grounds and sweet wines. Fans of port will appreciate the complex FORT wine, crafted with estate-grown Marechal Foch grapes and complemented by caramel, figs, dates, and dark chocolate notes. In addition to FORT and other dessert wines, Rollingdale also produces a lovely selection of reds, whites, and rosè wines.

Rollingdale's tasting room is modest in size, so it strongly encourages reservations. However, staff members will always accommodate walk-ins when possible. Reservations or not, visitors should plan to pack a picnic to enjoy alongside their favourite bottle. The views across the vineyard and Okanagan Lake are some of the best in the region!

Membership benefits include three wine shipments per year, private invitation-only events, and free tastings at the winery.

Rollingdale Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Rollingdale Winery, 2306 Hayman Rd, West Kelowna, BC V1Z 1Z5
  • Hours: Closed Monday / Tuesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
  • Phone: 250-769-9224

Hester Creek Estate Winery

With its picturesque location on the Golden Mile Bench, this destination winery offers a unique True Wine Experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Come and indulge in the Mediterranean ambiance of Hester Creek Estate Winery, where you can savour premium wines made from old vines and experience luxurious accommodations.

Constructed in 2004 by entrepreneur Curt Garland, this 23,000-square-foot winery features state-of-the-art equipment and boasts a welcoming hospitality center, an Italian-inspired restaurant, luxurious villas, summer barbecues with live music, personalized tastings and farm-to-table cooking classes. You'll be delighted to find some of Joe Busnardo's original varietals still thriving on the property; Pinot Blanc, Trebbiano, 'Italian Merlot' and Cabernet Franc all grace the vineyard with their old-world charm.

Hester Creek Estate Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Hester Creek Estate Winery, 877 Rd 8, Oliver, BC V0H 1T0
  • Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
  • Phone: 250-498-4435

CedarCreek Estate Winery

CedarCreek Estate Winery was purchased in 1986 and provided the first release of wines in 1987. The winery was one of the first eight in BC and is considered one of the area's pioneering wineries. It has produced some of the top wines from the area and has earned the honour of "Canada's Winery of the Year" twice.

CedarCreek produces many different wines, including:

  • Riesling
  • Ehrenfelser
  • Gewürztraminer
  • Chardonnay
  • Pinot Blanc
  • Pinot Gris
  • And others!

They are known for using only the highest quality grapes to produce amazing wines. Two tiers of wines are made with only the very best, designated as Platinum wines.

CedarCreek Estate Winery Additional Information

  • Address: CedarCreek Estate Winery, 5445 Lakeshore Rd, Kelowna, BC V1W 4S5
  • Phone: (778) 738-1020
  • Hours: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Daily

River Stone Estate Winery

Relish in the quaint charm of River Stone Estate Winery, a family-run oasis tucked away in a stunning corner of the South Okanagan. Enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding vineyard and cozy up in the intimate tasting room situated at the base of the Kane family home.

Rivers Stone is known for their Bordeaux-style blend Corner Stone, sourced from grapes grown in deep, rocky soil left behind by glaciers. Additionally, their five red varietals—Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot—plus two white varietals—Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer—are all harvested under the Okanagan Valley's ideal sunlit summer days and warm autumn nights, and are not to be missed.

River Stone Estate Winery Additional Information

  • Address: River Stone Estate Winery, 143 Bunchanan Dr, Oliver, BC V0H 1T2
  • Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Phone: 250-498-0043

Ancient Hill Estate Winery

The Ancient Hill Estate Winery is a boutique winery found in the Ellison area. It's located to the north of Kelowna and provides a great location for visitors and residents. The wine is made only from grapes grown at the vineyard, and all wine is processed on-site. Ancient Hill is a European-style winery with plenty to offer visitors.

The vineyard chooses only grape varietals capable of ripening on the vineyard land. The cooler location allows aromatic wines to create dynamic flavours not found in many other wines. Wines found at Ancient Hill Estate Winery include:

  • Lazerus
  • Pinot Noir
  • Baco Noir
  • Rose
  • Pinot Gris
  • Gewürztraminer

The wine shop provides a tasting area with old-world charm found throughout. There is a beautiful picnic area with panoramic views. You can enjoy the wines by the glass or bottle, but this is not a food service establishment. They provide a limited assortment of crackers and cheeses, and they allow you to bring your own lunch.

Ancient Hill Estate Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Ancient Hill Estate Winery, 4918 Anderson Rd, Kelowna, BC V1X 7V7
  • Phone: (250) 491-2766
  • Hours: 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Daily

Indigenous World Winery

Indigenous World Winery is a Best Winery in Kelowna

Indigenous World Winery is the first winery wholly owned and operated by Okanagan Aboriginal people. The facility in West Kelowna is owned by the chief of the Westbank First Nation, Robert Louie, with his spouse Bernice. Louie was born on Sylix First Nations land, educated in BC with a law degree and has a variety of business interests in the Okanagan region.

Indigenous World's wines include the Simo, a red blend in honour of the original name for Chief Louie, which means "connected to the land." The brand so far is Indigenous World's most awarded label, having won gold at a variety of wine festivals such as Finger Lakes in New York State, the San Francisco International Wine Competition and a bronze at the Decanter.

Another award-winning wine is the Hee-Hee-Tel-Kin label, a collection of affordable red and white blends. The name is the traditional Sylix name of Louie's youngest son Trenton; loosely translated, it refers to a mystic stag with big antlers.

The wine produced at Indigenous World is created using some grape varieties cultivated on Sylix First Nations lands. Most of the wine is made with grapes sourced throughout the area. With respect to the community's traditions, the winery takes great pains to ensure that every aspect of the business is done in a way that is respectful to the environment, the land, and the people.

Indigenous World is a showcase of that Aboriginal heritage. The restaurant offers daily Native-influenced menu selections and wine pairings. The main building is low to the ground, with two large outdoor patios and spectacular views overlooking Okanagan Lake. 

It is a member of the Westside Wine Trail, a cluster of world-class wineries on the west side, which includes Mission Hill and Quails' Gate.

Indigenous World Winery Additional Information

  • Address: Indigenous World Winery, 2218 Horizon Dr, West Kelowna, BC V1Z 3L4
  • Phone: 250-769-2824
  • Hours: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Daily

The Vibrant Vine

If you are looking for some of the best wine in the world, you will find it at The Vibrant Vine. In 2013, The Vibrant Vine was the winner of the Best White Wine in the World award. Their store offers numerous wines, including Gewurztraminer, Rosé, and Pinot Grigio. In addition, they have specialties like The Mask (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec), Woops (a white blend), and Phoenix (Syrah and Tempranillo).

Apart from the wines, The Vibrant Vine also hosts concerts, workshops, and classes, and sells art. Don't forget about their Wine Club, with two levels of membership: Wolf Song and Dragon.

The Vibrant Vine Additional Information

  • Address: The Vibrant Vine, 3240 Pooley Rd, Kelowna, BC V1W 4G7
  • Phone: 778-478-4153
  • Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Daily

Quail's Gate

Quail's Gate is Kelowna residents' wine destination. The winery offers a wine shop, restaurant and more. The Stewart family has been farming since 1908 in Okanagan Valley and eventually transitioned from growing tree fruits to grapes and wines.

In 1956, the Quails' Gate estate was purchased, and winemaking eventually began. The winery is supported by fine restaurants, retail stores and, of course, liquor boards. The Quails' Gate winery is open for the public to visit.

Quail's Gate provides plenty of great wines from five collections: Founders' Series, Reserve, Distinction Collection, Collector's Series, and Estate Series. There are also specialty and gift bundles. 

Guests are welcome to stay at the two lakeshore properties, including The Nest and the Lake House. The Lake House rental includes a five-bedroom home overlooking Green Bay with a waterfront boat dock, hot tub, fire pit and two electronic boat lifts. The Nest is a renovated home at the base of the estate vineyard featuring a private beach, an open plan floor plan and a small patio.

Be sure to try Old Vines, the restaurant at Quails' Gate, while you're there. You'll enjoy beautiful views with your dinner or lunch. This restaurant is open all year long with plenty of culinary creations coming from locally sourced ingredients.

Quails Gate Estate Winery received a gold and silver award in 2014 and two silver and one gold in 2015 for Best of Kelowna. Its location is 3303 Boucherie Road in West Kelowna.

Quail's Gate Additional Information

  • Address: Quails' Gate Winery, 3303 Boucherie Rd, Kelowna, BC V1Z 2H3
  • Phone: 250-769-4451
  • Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Daily

Other Wining & Dining Destinations

Kelowna has many fine dining experiences to offer. Each of the restaurants provided has received either a gold, silver, or bronze award for excellence. Whether you desire American, Indian, Japanese, or many other delicacies, you will find each platter to your specific taste. Try them all; you cannot go wrong. Happy dining!

RauDZ

RauDZ received three gold awards and two silver awards in 2014 for Best of Kelowna in dining experiences. In 2015, it received three gold awards, one silver award, and one bronze award in various categories. It is located at 1560 Water Street.

Bouchons Bistro

Bouchons Bistro received two bronze awards in 2014 for Best of Kelowna in Fine and Romantic Dining. Also, in 2015 it received a silver award, 2nd place for the most Romantic Dinner. It is at 105-1180 Sunset Drive.

Poppadoms - Taste India

The best Indian food was portrayed with the Best of Kelowna with a gold award in 2014 at Poppadoms - Taste India! In 2015, it also received a silver award. It is located at 118 948 McCurdy Road in Kelowna. Chutney Cuisine of India also received bronze awards in 2014 and 2015. It is conveniently located at 3011 Pandosy Street.

Momo Sushi Cafe and Bluetail Sushi & Bistro

In 2014 and 2015, Momo Sushi Cafe received first place with gold awards in the Best of Kelowna in the Japanese category. It is located at 377 Bernard Avenue. Another fine Japanese restaurant is Bluetail Sushi & Bistro, located at 102-1675 Commerce Avenue in Kelowna. It received the bronze award in 2014 and a silver award in 2015.

Hector's Casa Authentic Mexican Cuisine

The finest Mexican dining has two award-winning establishments. Hector's Casa Authentic Mexican Cuisine received gold awards for Best in Kelowna in 2014 and 2015. It is conveniently located at 2911 Pandosy Street. Fernando's Pub received the bronze award in 2014 and 2015 and is located at 279 Bernard Avenue.

Train Station Pub

For those who enjoy a pub atmosphere, the Train Station Pub received a gold award in 2014 and is located at 1177 Ellis Street.

Enjoy an Evening at a Kelowna Winery or Fine Dining Restaurant

As you can see, the dozens of vineyards of the Okanagan Valley—and Kelowna specifically—yield wines that are just as diverse, rich, and compelling as the stunning surrounding scenery. Looking for things to do in Kelowna? Sampling from and touring these award-winning, innovative wineries is a treasured pastime of longtime residents, newcomers, and visitors alike. Kelowna's leading vineyards can be enjoyed throughout all four seasons. Set aside an afternoon or two to taste the best of Kelowna; there's more than enough terroir to go around!

Hopefully, these suggestions will help you in your search for a great dining and/or winery experience while in Kelowna. It will surely be an adventure you will not soon forget, and with so many options to choose from, you'll keep finding more places to try.

If the opportunities in Kelowna excite you, contact the agents at KelownaHomes.ca at 250-999-9844 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find the perfect home in Kelowna today.

Dave Kotler

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