I often get asked for recommendations in the Okanagan. I don’t mind, in fact, I absolutely love telling people about the great things in the valley, but, it does take a lot of time and effort to respond to emails and texts about what to eat and drink, or what to do and where to stay, so I’ve made a list and will update as needed.
I’ve covered six areas—Lake Country, Kelowna and West Kelowna, Penticton and Naramata, OK Falls, Oliver, and Osoyoos—in six separate posts.
This post is all about Lake Country, just north of Kelowna.
The Scenic Sip is the official name given to the wine trail through Lake Country. Currently, there are eight wineries to explore. I’ve been to every one except Ancient Hill.
50th Parallel: One of the most beautiful winery structures in the valley and home to a new bistro, Block One.
This is a project by Dennis O’Rourke and winemaker Adrian Baker. Great location, stunning property, A+ wines and wonderful food.
Intrigue is known for their aromatic whites and approachable reds. They also have one of the best winery gift shops. If you’re looking for a wine-ish souvenir, you’ll find it here.
One of the oldest wineries in the valley and recently purchased by wine giant, Andrew Peller Ltd., Gray Monk is still worthy of your time. The Grapevine restaurant features an unbeatable view of the lake and the food is consistently good (even great).
Another stellar winery with views to match. The patio is extremely comfortable and the pizzas out of the little Chaos bistro are more than satisfactory. Ex Nihilo’s wines are gorgeous; bright, well-balanced whites, and deep luscious reds from grapes grown in the south.
A little jewel hidden down a driveway. Do not pass by. They make elegant wines and have some very lovely light bites available from their kitchen/bakery. They also have a fantastic picnic area, so bring your own sandwiches or snacks and hang out on the grass for a while (but buy their wines to go with your picnic stuff, seriously).
This is a small, organic winery with a real grass roots feel to it. The setting is really cool and they don’t get a lot of press so go and check them out. There are several places on the property to take great pictures. Give ’em some love. (No restaurant)
You can find more details about these wineries and their restaurants in a 2018 article I wrote for Eat North.
Happy travels. #explorebc