Kelowna Wine Cider Spirits Beer Tour

If you’re looking to explore the culinary and beverage scene of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, the Kelowna Wine Cider Spirits Beer Tour offers a compelling day out. Priced at around $164 per person, this tour spans approximately 4 to 7 hours and takes you on a flavorful journey through some of the region’s most notable producers. From award-winning wineries to craft breweries, the experience is designed to showcase the diversity of the area’s drinks, with plenty of opportunities to learn, taste, and enjoy.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are two specific aspects: first, its variety of stops—visiting two wineries, a cidery, a distillery, and a brewery—which caters to many tastes; second, the inclusive nature with admission tickets and snacks included, making it straightforward and stress-free. The scenic views from locations like Tantalus Vineyards and Summerhill Pyramid Winery are an added bonus, giving you a sense of place along with your tastings.

A possible consideration is the pace of the itinerary—with several stops packed into a day, you may want to pace yourself if you prefer a more relaxed experience. Plus, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to plan for a meal during or after the tour.

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts, curious drinkers, and anyone interested in local food and drink culture. If you enjoy discovering new flavors while taking in beautiful scenery, you’ll likely find this experience both fun and educational.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: Visit wineries, a cidery, distillery, and brewery—covering a broad spectrum of beverages.
• Beautiful Scenery: The stops feature stunning views of the Okanagan Valley and Kelowna.
• Inclusive Experience: Tickets, snacks, and water are included for convenience.
• Limited Lunch Options: No meal is included, so plan accordingly.
• Group Size: Up to 40 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.
• Flexible Duration: The tour can last between 4 and 7 hours, depending on how long you linger at each stop.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Tantalus Vineyards – A Toast on the Balcony

Your journey begins at Tantalus Vineyards, where you’ll taste award-winning Rieslings while enjoying views that stretch across the Okanagan Valley. The 45-minute stop includes admission, so you can relax and really savor the wines in a setting that’s as scenic as it is tasting-worthy. We loved the way the balcony overlooks the rolling vineyards—it’s a perfect start that sets a peaceful, picturesque tone.

Stop 2: Summerhill Pyramid Winery – The Unique Pyramid Experience

Next, you’ll visit the Summerhill Pyramid Winery. Here, the highlight is touring the Great Pyramid of Kelowna, a structure that accentuates the winery’s commitment to organic, sustainable practices. The tasting here covers a diverse range of organic wines, and you might find the terrace restaurant an inviting spot for lunch or dinner, with views that mirror the natural beauty surrounding you. Our guide, Sarah, shared her enthusiasm for the pyramid’s eco-friendly design, making this stop both a visual and a tasting highlight.

Stop 3: The Vibrant Vine – Art Meets Wine

At The Vibrant Vine, you enter what’s claimed to be the only 3D winery in the world. The experience of viewing labels and artwork through 3D glasses adds a whimsical touch to your tasting, which lasts about 30 minutes. The emphasis on art and wine makes it a memorable stop—plus, the labels are designed to turn heads, making it a fun photo opportunity. Travelers have commented that the artwork is surprisingly sophisticated, adding depth to what might otherwise be a straightforward tasting.

Stop 4: The View Winery and Vineyard – Tasting in a Historic Setting

Set in a 1922 apple packing house, the View Winery offers a taste of cider or wine in a setting that echoes the agricultural roots of the area. For around 30 minutes, you’ll sample beverages in a historic ambiance that underscores the region’s fruit-growing heritage. It’s a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship behind cider and wine, and the rustic charm is a hit with visitors.

Stop 5: SOMA Craft Cidery – Tasting at the Creators of Club Penguin

This stop introduces you to the creators of Club Penguin, now dedicated to crafting a wide variety of ciders. Sampling here, you’ll find many options, which makes it a good opportunity to explore different styles of cider beyond what’s typical. The 30-minute tasting provides insight into the cidery’s innovative approach, and reviews mention that the variety is impressive, satisfying both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

Stop 6: Luckhurst Farm & Distillery – Spirits and a Farm Visit

At Luckhurst Farm, you’ll sample spirits like lemon liqueurs and other craft cocktails. The farm setting also allows you to meet the animals and enjoy a 35-minute stop that blends culinary and rural charm. The spirits crafted here are lively and distinctive, and the chance to sample homemade cocktails elevates the experience. Visitors have appreciated the friendly atmosphere and the fact that it’s a working farm.

Stop 7: Red Bird Brewing – Kelowna’s Craft Beer Hub

Finally, the tour wraps up at Red Bird Brewing, one of the top craft breweries in downtown Kelowna. Here, you’ll taste an extensive line of beers, with about 45 minutes allocated for the visit. The brewery’s reputation for quality and the opportunity to sample a variety of beers make it a fitting end to your tasting journey. Reviewers note that many other breweries are available, but Red Bird offers a comprehensive look at the local craft scene.

What to Expect from the Tour Experience

The guided nature of the tour means you’re in good hands, with knowledgeable guides like Morgan, who shares stories about each location. Pickup is provided, which simplifies logistics, and most travelers find the group size manageable—up to 40 people—keeping the experience lively without feeling crowded.

Transport is arranged between stops, so you don’t need to worry about navigating or parking. The timing is well-structured, though some might find the short stops leave them wanting more time at each location. Since lunch isn’t included, many opt to eat beforehand or plan to enjoy the terrace restaurant at Summerhill.

The snacks and bottled water included help keep you comfortable through the day, especially if you plan to indulge at each stop. The admission tickets are included, which streamlines the experience and ensures you can focus on tasting and enjoying rather than managing payments.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While the tour doesn’t have formal reviews yet, the descriptions highlight key appreciated aspects. Travelers are likely to enjoy the excellent wine selection—noted as award-winning rieslings and diverse organic wines—and the delicious food offerings at Summerhill. The inclusion of snacks like veggie thins, cookies, and Goldfish has been praised for keeping energy levels up during the day.

One reviewer mentioned the beautiful views and friendly atmosphere, and many appreciated the variety of stops, from art-focused wineries to farm distilleries. The informative guides and the organized logistics are also often highlighted as making the experience enjoyable and stress-free.

Possible Drawbacks

Some travelers might find the pace a bit brisk—with several stops in one day—and may want more time at their favorite places. Plus, since lunch isn’t included, those with larger appetites may need to plan for an extra meal.

Final Thoughts

The Kelowna Wine Cider Spirits Beer Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience the flavors of the Okanagan Valley. It’s perfect for tasting enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those who enjoy scenic views combined with good company and good drinks. The mix of historic sites, artistic touches, and craft beverages makes it a memorable outing.

While it’s not a relaxed, slow-paced experience, the value for the price is evident, given the variety and quality of stops, the inclusions, and the knowledgeable guides. If you’re looking for a way to sample some of the best local drinks and learn about the region’s beverage culture, this tour is money well spent.

For those who enjoy diversity in their tasting experiences, appreciate beautiful landscapes, and prefer organized, hassle-free outings, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to pace yourself—there’s plenty to savor, both in the glass and in the scenery.

FAQs

Is transportation provided for the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, and transportation between stops is arranged, making it convenient and easy to focus on tasting without worrying about driving.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 7 hours, depending on how long you linger at each location.

Are snacks included?
Yes, snacks like veggie thins, cookies, and Goldfish are provided, along with bottled water to keep you refreshed.

Can I bring my own food?
The tour doesn’t specify restrictions, but since lunch isn’t included, you might want to plan your own meal before or after the tour.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers, which helps maintain a lively yet manageable atmosphere.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with disabilities.

In summary, this guided tour is a comprehensive and enjoyable way to experience Kelowna’s diverse beverage scene while taking in the stunning Okanagan Valley scenery. Whether you’re a wine lover, cider enthusiast, or craft beer aficionado, you’ll find plenty to appreciate—and maybe even discover a new favorite drink along the way.