South Okanagan
Osoyoos, Oliver, Okanagan Falls, Kaleden, Penticton, Naramata, Summerland and Peachland
South Okanagan: Osoyoos & Oliver
The land spanning from the Canada-U.S. border to the northern most tip of Oliver is a mere 33 km long and is squeezed in between mountain ranges, lakes and rivers. Yet this narrow strip is home to more than 60 per cent of the BC’s grape acreage. So it should come as no surprise that Mother Nature affected this growing area the most when the Okanagan was struck by brutal weather events as a result of climate change. For two years in a row, the valley was subjected to prolonged sub-zero temperatures. As a result, the harvest in 2023 was only a fraction of normal crop yield and all but non-existent in 2024. Many grape growers had to pull out their vines and replant. All this has certainly tested the resilience of vintners in the Oliver-Osoyoos, but they continue to push through because it is a labour of love. The area has long been referred to as the Wine Capital of Canada and its strong spirit lives on. The Oliver-Osoyoos area is an ecologically unique as it is located in a desert belt – an extension of the Sonoran stretching up from Mexico. Cacti and rattlesnakes are more at home here than vineyards and orchards. Fertile ground for growing grapes and fruit has been made possible by the use of irrigation, which has given new life to the South Okanagan. The area’s extended days of heat and sunshine has made it possible to grow varieties not previously thought possible. Here, farmers have pushed the limits by planting varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah and Malbec, thought best suited to warm climate growing regions such as California, Australia and Argentina. For the most part this boundary pushing has paid off, but as the last years have taught them, not risk free. Still, if you are looking for a wine-soaked adventure, then the Oliver-Osoyoos region cannot be missed. Here you’ll find more than 60 wineries and British Columbia’s first official sub-geographical indication (sub-GI), the Golden Mile Bench, recognizing it for its unique climates, soil types and wine styles. And while growers work to rebuild, there is still plenty of inventory to enjoy. Osoyoos is the southernmost point in the valley and located on the shores of the warmest lake in Canada. It’s a border town with easy access for our U.S. friends who want to make a quick trip north. Despite recent development of luxury hotels and residential communities, Osoyoos has managed to retain its small-town charm offering idyllic respite with all the amenities you might desire at your fingertips. Dining in the area has been elevated in recent years, with a nod toward regional and season cuisine. Gorgeous beaches and family-friendly options are plentiful in this stunning lakeside community. Awesome hiking and biking trails and backcountry adventures are close at hand.
Common Varieties Grown: Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer
Key Wine Events: Festival of the Grape (September), Half Corked Marathon (May), Okanagan Spring Wine Festival (May), Okanagan Fall Wine Festival (October)
South Okanagan: Okanagan Falls & Kaleden
The wineries located within the Okanagan Falls Skaha Lake wine area are mainly clustered in three distinct areas south of Penticton. There’s a small collection around the community of Kaleden, along the west side of Skaha. Another across the water on the east bench of the lake. Then the largest group can be found in and around Okanagan Falls, between Skaha and Vaseaux lakes. The first winery opened in 1986 and now about 20 can be found along the region’s winding roads, making various styles of wine using grapes and other fruits. The terroir of the area is considered to be a unique semi-arid steppe with desert-like qualities. That has prompted the BC Wine authority to recognize Okanagan as a Sub-Geographical Indication of the Okanagan Valley. Okanagan Falls was originally named for a robust set of twin falls that spilled from where Skaha Lake empties into the river. But 80 years ago, a series of dams were built to control flooding and the falls no longer exist. The area still features plenty of natural charm and harkens back to a simpler way of living. You won’t find any big box stores here, but if you’re in need of some retail therapy, you’ll be delighted by the eclectic mix of antique stores and craft shops, plus a weekly flea market. Naturalists will be drawn to the region for the desert flora and fauna to explore. They are multiple parks, hiking and biking trails and rock climbing at Skaha Bluffs. Skaha is one of the warmest lakes in the province and offers long stretches of beach and plenty of watersport options. Vaseau Lake is a mecca for fishing, featuring large-mouth bass and rainbow trout. A bird observatory is situated at the lake, complete with an interpretive centre. No motorized boats or other propulsion devices (such as efoil electric surfboads) are permitted under the Migratory Bird Sanctuary Regulations.
Common Varieties Grown: Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer
Key Wine Events: Okanagan Spring Wine Festival (May), Okanagan Fall Wine Festival (October)
South Okanagan: Penticton & Naramata
If you only have time for one destination in BC Wine Country, the Naramata/Penticton area needs to be at the top your list. For one thing, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to wineries. There are more than 40 venues to choose from located in the city, on the east side of Okanagan Lake on the Naramata Bench, and on the bench on the east side of Skaha Lake. The Naramata Bench is by far the most dense with wineries and grape acreage. As you travel the pastoral, winding roads, vineyards appear to cover every square inch as far as the eye can see. And the setting is unsurpassed with its scenic lake views. You’d be hard pressed to find any place like it. With the growing popularity of touring by E-bike, the Naramata Bench would be the ideal spot for such an adventure. Penticton is a captivating, lively city sandwiched between the southern-most point of Okanagan Lake and northern-most shore of Skaha. It’s the third largest municipality in the Okanagan, yet it maintains a small-town vibe. Still, there is plenty of nightlife, restaurants and a casino. For water enthusiasts, there are long stretches of shoreline with plenty of public beaches and access to a myriad of marine sports and activities. There’s a river channel that winds through the heart of the city and visitors can leisurely float the entire length on tubes and other floatation devices from one end to the other. This activity has been highlighted in the book titled, The Great Canadian Bucket List. The city has been referred to as the “festival capital” with a wide range of annual events such as the Fest of Ale, Peachfest, Pentastic Hot Jazz Festival and Elvis Festival. Signature events for the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival are also held here. Outdoor adventure seekers will appreciate the wide range of trails for hiking and biking and the city is just minutes from Skaha Bluffs, a climber’s paradise that has garnered international recognition. Two Sub-Geographical Indications for wine production are recognized here by the BC Wine Authority. The Naramata Bench is one and the east Skaha Bench is the other.
Common Varieties Grown: Merlot, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Syrah,
Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Key Wine Events: Okanagan Spring Wine Festival (May), Okanagan Fall Wine Festival (October)
South Okanagan: Summerland & Peachland
If the names of the delightful communities of Peachland and Summerland don’t beckon enough, then come for the wine. There’s a growing collection of wineries in the area providing easy access for a daytrip or two, or even an e-bike tour. The rolling hills around the community of Summerland are dotted with more than a dozen inviting vendors, where eclectic wines are made from grapes and other fruit and artists come to perform or display their wares. Several other wineries can be found just off the Highway 97 between Summerland and Peachland. In all, there about 20 in total. A local association has coined the term “Bottleneck Drive” and offers suggestions for several meandering tours of 18 wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries. The communities themselves border the shores of stunning Okanagan Lake just off Highway 97 between Kelowna and Penticton. There are long stretches of sandy beach, and clean waterfront access for boating, paddle boarding, and so much more, as well as plenty of walking, hiking and biking trails and golf courses. This area offers a truly grassroots feel and artistic vibe. Expect to be entertained by local musicians, and enjoy the works of artists and crafters. This is an area rich in creativity. Summerland and Peachland offer several unique attractions including a railway tour aboard a 1912 steam train; a 15-acre ornamental garden where you can view flower beds, butterflies and enjoy a picnic; a car museum; and even a parrot sanctuary. The area is also a foodie’s paradise, with local producers and restaurateurs embracing the concept of the 100-mile diet – regional cuisine that promotes local, seasonal ingredients.
Common Varieties Grown: Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Merlot, Kerner
Key Wine Events: Grand Sommelier Express (June), Okanagan Spring Wine Festival (May), Okanagan Fall Wine Festival (October)
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