Kootenay Rockies

Creston, Nakusp, Skookumchuck, Trail, Wynndel

Common Grape Varieties: Pinor Noir, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Maréchal Foch, Chardonnay, Riesling, Gamay Noir

Kootenay Wine Region

The Kootenay Rockies have long been a magnet for outdoor lovers chasing alpine adventure, wild beauty, and remote tranquility. But for wine lovers in search of the unexpected, this region has a story worth sipping.

Tucked amid snowcapped peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and forested valleys, the Kootenay Rockies are home to a growing craft beverage scene, featuring:

• Over 35 breweries, cideries, distilleries

• And a rising number of wineries producing both grape and honey wines

A Hidden Gem in BC Wine Country

Wine production in the region began in earnest in the mid-1990s, when the first vines were planted in the West Kootenays. Today, there are:

• Just under 100 acres of vineyards

• More than half a dozen wine producers

• A Geographical Indication designation by the BC Wine Authority

Key wine-producing communities include Creston, Nakusp, Wynndel, Trail, and along the Skookumchuck Trail. The region’s cool climate, mountain terrain, and ecological diversity allow for distinctive, small-batch wines with bright acidity and mountain character.

Beyond the Bottle: Outdoor Adventure & Alpine Culture

The Kootenay Rockies aren’t just for wine tasting — they’re for explorers at heart. Visitors can experience:

• Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on glacier lakes

• Mountain biking and hiking through endless alpine trails

• Hang gliding and rock climbing for thrill seekers

• Golf, skiing, and wildlife viewing in all seasons

One of the region’s crown jewels is Kootenay Lake, BC’s fifth largest, offering spectacular views and serene moments. This is a place where nature reigns, and where the connection between land, people, and produce runs deep.

Sustainable Spirit & Community Pride

The people of the Kootenays have a shared respect for nature and sustainability. Whether it’s in their wine production, farm-to-table food scene, or ecotourism offerings, there’s a conscious care for the land that sets this region apart.

Visitors can expect small-town charm, artisan experiences, and the kind of hospitality that turns a short trip into a long-lasting memory.