The South Okanagan is a wine country that boasts some of the best vineyards in the world. In this article, you will discover some of the best wineries from Oliver and Osoyoos to the Similkameen Valley. Showcasing the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this truly unique and special wine country.
The Best Wineries in Osoyoos
Nk’Mip Cellars
Nk’Mip Cellars is a unique winery located in the South Okanagan wine region of British Columbia. It’s the first Indigenous-owned and operated winery in North America, offering a historic and unforgettable experience for wine tourists. Nk’Mip Cellars grows its own grapes on its estate vineyard, ensuring complete control over grape quality and winemaking.
The winery is part of the legacy of the Osoyoos Indian Band, a community of over 500 members committed to hard work, innovation, and respect for nature. The Osoyoos Indian Reserve spans 32,000 acres of Sonoran Desert landscape and includes settlements such as Osoyoos, Keremeos, Penticton, and Kelowna, which have Indigenous names.
Nk’Mip Cellars produces premium, handcrafted wines that reflect the unique terroir of the South Okanagan region and the cultural heritage of the Osoyoos Indian Band. Visitors can enjoy a tasting room, wine shop, and restaurant with breathtaking views of the vineyard.
The word “Nk’Mip” translates to “Bottomland” in English, representing the southern end of the Osoyoos reservation. Nk’Mip Cellars is one of many initiatives that have contributed to the financial independence and high employment of the Osoyoos Indian Band.
La Stella Winery
LaStella is a winery located in the South Okanagan Valley of British Columbia. The wines are named after Italian musical notes, such as Allegretto, Vivace, and Maestoso.
La Stella Winery is certified sustainable by SWBC. However, they do not have a systematic organic farm certification. They believe that sustainable and organic farming practices should be for the benefit of the land and future generations.
LaStella is committed to keeping the vineyard healthy and chemical-free. The winery is also a great place to visit, with its vineyard located within close proximity to Osoyoos Lake.
The Best Wineries in Oliver
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
With its stunning Tuscany-style architecture, Burrowing Owl Estate Winery is a beautiful winery. It is known for producing high-quality wines, showcasing a range of varietals. These include Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. They are renowned for their balance and complexity. The winery’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly wine-making practices has also earned it much recognition and praise
Burrowing owl Estate winery’s vineyards are located on the Golden Mile Bench. The Golden Bench is one of the premier grape-growing regions in the Okanagan Valley. The vineyards are part of the northernmost tip of the antelope brush ecosystem and lie on a southwest-tilting, sandy plateau near the north end of Osoyoos Lake. Burrowing Owl is definitely one of the best wineries in the south Okanagan
The winery’s restaurant, the Sonora Room, is another highlight. It offers epicurean excellence, superb service, relaxed style and stunning scenic views overlooking the picturesque vineyard. The Guest House at Burrowing Owl Estate Winery is a place to retreat and reconnect.
Fairview Cellars
Since 1997, Fairview Cellars in Oliver, is one of the best wineries in the South Okanagan. It has been producing some of the South Okanagan’s boldest, most delicious red wines. at the northern tip of the region’s renowned Golden Mile. From the Heart, for the Heart. A boutique winery located on the Reed Creek alluvial Fan at the North end of the Benches of the Golden Mile.
You Might Like… The South Okanagan’s Best Wineries: Naramata, Penticton, & More
Fairview Cellars produces bold, high-quality wines with care and passion. Their log-cabin tasting room offers a unique and intimate wine tasting experience. They strive to embody the terroir of the South Okanagan region with their handcrafted premium wines, reflecting their motto “From the Heart, for the Heart.”
Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery
Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery is located in the Golden Mile region of the Okanagan. The winery overlooks a vast area that stretches to Osoyoos Lake. Gehringer creates high-quality wines. They are widely recognized for their exceptional standards and dedication to quality.
Their wines are easy to drink and are great value. Gerhiringer as won numerous awards over the years. It is one of the finest wineries in Western Canada.
Hester Creek Estate Winery
Hester Creek Estate Winery is located in the Golden Mile Bench region of the Okanagan Valley. Located on a 76-acre hillside property that has 115 acres of vineyards. Hester Creek planted with various grape varietals including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Blanc, and Syrah.
Hester Creek Estate Winery uses state-of-the-art cellar equipment, including Italian Ganimede fermenters, to produce consistently high-quality wines. They’re goals to create wines that are an expression of the vineyard’s terroir. The winery follows sustainable farming practices. They harvest and vinify each block of the vineyard individually to preserve the nuances of the land.
Terrafina, a stunning Tuscan-style restaurant. With a focus on “from the earth” ingredients, Terrafina at Hester Creek by RauDZ offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends elegant surroundings with a farm-to-table approach. Come and enjoy a taste of Tuscany surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Okanagan Valley’s vineyards.
Desert Hills Estate Winery
Desert Hills Estate Winery is a leading winery located in the South Okanagan. It planted the first Syrah vines in the region. They farm over 80 acres of vineyards across five locations. All managed sustainably. They focus on low yields and high-quality grapes.
You Might Like… The 21 Best Wineries in Kelowna, BC
The grapes are hand-picked and sorted before crush, ensuring that only the best quality is used in. The vineyards are located in picturesque locations, making it a great place to enjoy the evening sun.
The winery also offers a dining experience at Black Sage Eats. Here visitors can sample a delectable menu while taking in the stunning surroundings. The commitment to quality and sustainable practices at Desert Hills Estate Winery sets it apart. It is one of the best wineries in the South Okanagan.
Nostalgia Wines Inc
Nostalgia Wines is a boutique winery in Oliver, BC run by female owner, Gina Fernandes Harfman. She is also the winemaker and a 4th-generation South Okanagan family farmer. This nostalgic boutique winery located on the Black Sage Bench in Oliver, BC.
Nostalgia reflects the idea that wine should be about making memories and connections. Nostalgia Wines offers three tiers of small-lot wines: Pin-Up Series, Nostalgia Series, and Family Collection. The vineyard consists of 14.5 acres producing four white and five red varietals, including the unique Kerner variety.
The 2020 Pinot Noir received a gold medal at the 2022 WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada. Taste the award-winning wines and enjoy a picnic on one of the patios. Enjoy stunning views of the desert hills, vineyards, and orchards.
Le Vieux Pin Winery
Le Vieux Pin is creating wines that embody the essence of French winemaking tradition. Named after a single pine tree on the estate.
Le Vieux Pin focuses on producing Syrah and other varietals, using low-input viticulture and non-interventionalist winemaking techniques. The result is a range of fine wines that reflect the unique character of their terroir.
La Vieu Pin Winery and La Stella are under the same ownership. However, they focus on two completely different aspects of wine making. For a more in depth read into the different wines and styles of these wineries, check out this article by wineanoak.
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards was founded in 1993. It produces a variety of red and white wines using estate-grown grapes. Primarily known for its flagship wine, the Oldfield Series 2 Bench White. They also have a reputation for its red wines made from the Merlot and Cabernet Franc grape varieties.
Tinhorn Creek has received numerous awards and accolades for its wines. It is one of the leading wineries in the South Okanagan. Its also recognized for its sustainability efforts. Which includes the use of renewable energy and environmentally-friendly practices in the vineyard and winery operations.
In addition to wine tastings and tours, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards offers a range of activities and events. There is a scenic patio for wine tasting, a restaurant, and a concert series during the summer months.
Black Hills Estate Winery
Black Hills Estate Winery is a premium winery located in Oliver, British Columbia. This Estate Winery produces high-quality, estate-grown red wines. Their flagship wine is Nota Bene. Nota Bene is a blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.
Black Hills Estate Winery produces handcrafted wines that showcase the unique terroir of the South Okanagan. Known for its minimalist approach and its focus on allowing the grapes to express their true character and flavor.
You Might Like… 5 Best Organic Wineries in Kelowna, BC
In addition to wine tastings and tours, Black Hills Estate Winery offers a range of activities and events, including a scenic tasting room, a wine club, and a patio for enjoying a glass of wine with a view of the vineyard. It is a South Okanagan must visit.
Road 13 Vineyards
Road 13 Vineyards has a few things that make it stand out. Firstly, the Estate-grown grapes. Road 13 Vineyards uses only estate-grown grapes to produce its wines. This allows for complete control over the quality of the grapes and the winemaking process.
Road 13 creates highly sought after bold reds and old-vine Chenin Blanc. Fermented with care, these wines boast rich, complex flavors.
One of Road 13’s mottos is “on our road, there are no shortcuts,” It shows. This south Okanagan Winery is also dedicated to producing premium, handcrafted wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the South Okanagan region. The winery’s commitment to quality is evident in every bottle of wine it produces.
Similkameen Valley
Similkameen Wild Vineyard
The Similkameen Wild Vineyard is family-run and was established in 1996. The vineyard boasts a rich variety of grapes, including Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Viognier. In 2013, Similkameen Wild Vineyard officially opened its doors, offering 800 cases of premium Similkameen wine.
Visitors to Similkameen Wild Vineyard are treated to a full-service resort experience. The vineyard offers a variety of amenities, including a hot tub, heated salt water pool, lush gardens with fire-pits, indoor and outdoor dining options, a yoga and meditation room, meeting space, a therapy room, an outdoor wood-fire oven, and a large fully equipped kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun-filled vacation, Similkameen Wild Vineyard has something for everyone. It truly is one of the best wineries in the South Okanagan.
The vineyard’s dining room and breakfast bar offer guests a chance to indulge in delicious meals and wines. The indoor and outdoor dining areas provide beautiful views of the vineyard and the surrounding landscape. Meanwhile, the Tiki bar and fire-pits are perfect for socializing with friends and family while sipping on a glass of wine.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking to try something new, Similkameen Wild Vineyard is a must-visit destination. With its breathtaking views, delicious wines, and excellent resort amenities, there’s no better place to relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Similkameen Valley.
Orofino Vineyards
Orofino Vineyard Suites are known for their stunning views of the Similkameen Valley and luxurious living space.
The chardonnay and cabernet are popular choices and are available when the wine shop is open from May to October.
The suites are located on the second floor and feature a wall of windows that offer panoramic views. Each suite has 1000 square feet of living space, a fully modern kitchen, a 250 square foot private deck, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing wine country vacation.
Crow’s Nest Vineyard
Crow’s Nest Vineyard is a charming and historic winery located in the Similkameen Valley, British Columbia. With vines dating back over 30 years, it boasts some of the oldest vines still producing in the valley. The winery takes a unique approach to winemaking, allowing the extraordinary Similkameen terroir to shine through in each vintage.
Visitors to Crow’s Nest Vineyard are treated to a true wine country experience. Relax in the picnic area surrounded by vineyards and soak in the warm Similkameen sun. Indulge in the delicious cuisine offered at the casual vineyard restaurant. They feature house-made charcuterie and locally famous artisan sourdough breads.
For those looking for a longer stay, the 3-star guesthouse offers 7 smoke-free rooms. Here, guests can truly immerse themselves in the wine country atmosphere and enjoy the charm and hospitality of Crow’s Nest Vineyard.
Corcelettes Estate Winery
Corcelettes Estate Winery is a haven for wine enthusiasts, located in the stunning Similkameen Valley. With 150 acres of pristine land, this winery combines passion, precision, and science to craft small-batch, premium wines. Their portfolio includes Bordeaux varietals, Syrah, Pinot Noir, and a limited selection of premium wines from the Micro Lot Series.
In 2018, the winery expanded with the addition of Sunshot Vineyard. Located in a high bank, south-facing slope located on a neighboring ranch. The vineyard was developed from what was once virgin desert and pastureland. It now boasts Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec grapes. The renovated ranch house, now the guest house, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Similkameen Valley. It is the perfect place for wine adventurers to stay while exploring the region. Corcelette Estate is one of the best wineries in the South Okanagan when it comes to accommodation.
Corcelettes Estate Winery is conveniently located close to many other wineries, with 7 easily accessible by bicycle. The peaceful surroundings make it a wonderful destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Corcelettes Estate Winery is a must-visit destination in the Similkameen Valley.
Seven Stones Winery
Seven Stones Winery, is a hidden gem located on benchland overlooking the breathtaking Similkameen Valley. It produces full-bodied and exceptional red wines through sustainable wine growing practices. The vineyard’s unique terroir is carefully preserved through minimal winemaking techniques.
Visitors to Seven Stones Winery can taste their premium wines in the stunning tasting room. It boasts views of the estate vineyard on one side and the picturesque Similkameen River on the other. Pair your wine with a delicious charcuterie and enjoy the view from the patio.
One of the key attractions of Seven Stones Winery is their caves. The caves are a one-of-a-kind feature tucked away beneath seven feet of earth. The caves, at 3500 square feet, serve as a multi-functional space. They host dinners, private rentals, and also provide a perfect environment for aging the finest of French oak barrel-aged wines.
At Seven Stones Winery you can taste the finest full-bodied red wines, paired with delicious charcuteries. All while taking in the breathtaking views of the Similkameen Valley and the picturesque Similkameen River.
Vanessa Vineyard
Vanessa Vineyards is renowned for producing premium small-batch red wines from its 75-acre vineyard. The vineyard’s unique terroir, characterized by its rocky slopes, imparts a distinct minerality and complexity. The grapes grown on site make it one of the best wineries in the South Okanagan. The vines are planted among the rocks. Which, absorbs the warmth of the sun during the day and release it at night. This effect helps to enhance the exceptional quality of the fruit.
The winemaking team at Vanessa Vineyards prides itself on its careful and precise approach, ensuring that every bottle reflects the true essence of the Similkameen Valley. Visitors will enjoy one of the best wineries in the South Okanagan. The vineyard can sample the wines in the picturesque tasting room, which offers breathtaking views down the valley. Over the years, Vanessa Vineyards has received numerous accolades, both nationally and internationally, for its outstanding wines.
Mapped Out – Best Wineries In The South Okanagan: Oliver, Osoyoos & More
Best Wineries In South Okanagan – Verdict
From the town of Oliver and Osoyoos to the stunning Similkameen Valley, the South Okanagan is a mecca for British Columbia wine lovers seeking to explore the diverse and delicious offerings of the local wine industry. Wine tasting is a must-do activity in this region. It is a place where visitors can sample the best wines from the comfort of beautiful vineyards and wineries.