Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour – 5 wineries on the tour

Discover the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour: A Perfect Blend of Vineyards and Views

If you’re looking to explore some of the most acclaimed wineries in the Okanagan Valley, the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour offers a fantastic way to do it. For around $155 per person, you can spend 3 to 6 hours visiting five renowned wineries, each offering award-winning wines and spectacular vistas of vineyards and Okanagan Lake. This tour is designed for those who want a comfortably paced, knowledgeably guided experience with plenty of opportunity to taste, learn, and enjoy the landscape.

Two things we love about this tour: First, the variety of wineries visited, from family-owned estates to large, dedicated producers—each adds its own flavor to the day. Second, the personal touch provided by guides like Rod, who have received glowing reviews for their flexibility, friendliness, and local expertise. The tour also encourages a fun, casual atmosphere—including costume dress-up, which makes it perfect for celebrations or just a lively day out.

A possible consideration is that lunch is not included, so you might want to plan for a snack or meal afterward. Also, wine purchases are extra, so budget accordingly if you find a bottle you’d love to take home. This tour suits wine enthusiasts, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting to combine scenic beauty with top-tier wines in a relaxed, social setting.

Key Points

• Expertly curated wineries showcasing award-winning wines and stunning views.
• Flexible, friendly guides who prioritize customer experience.
• Includes transportation, making it easy and stress-free.
• A lively, fun atmosphere with optional costume dressing and contests.
• Taste a variety of wines without the hassle of planning.
• Good value given the extensive winery visits and included amenities.

An In-Depth Look at the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Kelowna’s vibrant wine scene, combining scenic views, quality wines, and engaging guides. We’ll walk through the itinerary, highlighting what each stop offers—and what makes each one special.

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The journey begins at the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort, conveniently located in downtown Kelowna. From here, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that ensures your comfort as you traverse the South Slopes and surrounding vineyards. The group size is limited to 14, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and allows guides to give personalized attention.

Most tours start around 11:00 am, giving you a full afternoon of tasting and sightseeing. The tour lasts approximately 3 to 6 hours, giving plenty of time to savor wines without feeling rushed. The door-to-door service means you won’t need to worry about driving or parking—ideal for relaxing and enjoying your experience.

The First Stop: The View Winery and Vineyard

Known for its family-owned charm and breathtaking vistas, The View Winery offers a perfect start. Overlooking Kelowna and Okanagan Lake, this estate is proud of its award-winning aromatic whites. Your tasting here will focus on cool-climate whites, which are a signature of the region.

Travelers like David_T praised Rod, the guide, for being attentive and flexible, making the experience feel personalized from the start. Expect about 30 minutes here, with admission included, giving you enough time to sip and soak in the panoramic views.

The Vibrant Vine Winery: Art, Music, and Pinot

Next, you’ll visit The Vibrant Vine, a winery with a creative flair—a mix of wine, art, and music. Founded in 2003 by Wyn and Marion Lewis, it’s well-loved for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative wines. This stop is particularly appealing to those interested in artistic labels and a lively ambiance.

Guests have enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and the fact that they ended up with a private tasting, thanks to the season. The 30-minute visit allows you to appreciate their family passion and distinctive Pinot Noir offerings.

Summerhill Pyramid Winery: Unique Architecture and Organic Practices

Summerhill stands out with its pyramid-shaped winery, a visual treat, and a statement of its commitment to organic and biodynamic practices. The focus here is on creating world-class wines with a sincere respect for the environment.

This stop is a favorite for its beauty and philosophy, with reviews highlighting the care in handling grapes and the quality of the wines. Expect about 30 minutes here, with tasting fees included, unless you opt for specialty wines like ice wine, which might cost extra.

Sandhill Wines: Grapes from Six Unique Vineyards

Sandhill offers a diverse portfolio of wines crafted from grapes sourced from six different vineyards in BC. This diversity means you’ll get a broad taste spectrum, from estate-grown wines to those from specialized vineyards like Phantom Creek and Osprey Ridge.

Guests note the variety and quality of Sandhill’s wines. The care in selecting grapes and the attention to terroir make it a compelling stop. Tasting here usually lasts about 30 minutes, allowing you to compare and appreciate the different vineyard influences.

Priest Creek Family Estate Winery: Classic and Premium

At Priest Creek, the focus is on creating approachable yet premium wines, suitable for both sharing today and aging for the future. The family-owned estate emphasizes quality and tradition.

Visitors have praised Priest Creek for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious wines. This stop is ideal for those who appreciate well-crafted, memorable wines and want to learn about small-scale estate production.

SpearHead Winery: Artisanal and Estate Grown

Located on the South East Kelowna benchlands, SpearHead is dedicated to producing high-quality wines from its own estate vineyard and other Okanagan sources. The focus on premium quality shows in their careful craftsmanship.

Guests enjoy the personal stories and the chance to taste distinctive wines that reflect the terroir of the region. Plan for about 30 minutes here, with tasting fees included.

Camelot Vineyards: A Family Heritage

This winery has roots as an orchard and has been in the Young family for decades. It offers visitors a cozy, intimate experience with wines that reflect the family’s commitment.

Amelia_R loved the friendly guidance and the historical feel of this stop, which nicely rounds out the day with authentic charm.

Home Block at CedarCreek Estate Winery: A Producer with a Dream

CedarCreek is known for its innovative approach and the dedication of Vern Rose, who started with a dream of growing his own grapes. The Home Block offers a glimpse into estate-grown wines that highlight the unique terroir of Kelowna.

This stop is appreciated for adding a personal touch, with tasting experiences that showcase quality and craftsmanship.

Meadow Vista Honey Wines: A Sweet Finish

Nestled among orchards, Meadow Vista offers honey wines made from local beehives—a delightful and different take on wine tasting. The pairing of honey flavors with local produce makes this a sweet and memorable stop.

Visitors comment on the beautiful farm setting and the distinctive flavors, perfect for those wanting to try something offbeat.

Sperling Vineyards: Respect for Terroir

The final stop at Sperling emphasizes grounded winemaking. Ann and Peter are noted for their hands-on approach, spending time in the vineyards to ensure quality and terroir expression.

Guests enjoy the personal stories and distinctive wines that reflect the local landscape—a fitting end to your wine adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The price of $155.15 includes tasting fees at all five wineries, bottled water, snacks, and door-to-door pickup, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Kelowna’s top wineries without the hassle of driving. The small group size (max 14) ensures a more personal experience.

While lunch isn’t included, the ample tasting opportunities and scenic stops compensate, and there’s plenty of time to explore or find a nearby café afterward. The optional costume dress-up and contests add a fun, playful element that keeps the atmosphere lively.

Authenticity and Expert Guidance

Guests consistently praise the guides—particularly Rod—for their knowledge, flexibility, and friendliness. This personal touch transforms what could be a simple tasting into a memorable social experience. The focus on local wines, stunning scenery, and genuine hospitality makes this tour stand out from more generic options.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This wine tour is best suited for enthusiasts eager to taste a diverse range of wines, those who appreciate beautiful landscapes, and travelers who want a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s also great for celebrations, as the fun dress-up aspect can make it a playful, memorable day. If you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience with a knowledgeable guide and scenic views, this tour ticks those boxes.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
Typically, between 3 and 6 hours, depending on the group and stops.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides door-to-door pickup and transportation in a comfortable vehicle.

Are tasting fees included?
Almost all tasting fees are covered, except possibly for specialty wines like ice wine, which might incur extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch isn’t included, so consider grabbing a bite beforehand or afterward.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual attire is recommended, especially if you choose to join the costume dress-up. Layers are advisable for the varying vineyard temperatures.

What wines will I taste?
Expect white, red, honey wines, and estate-grown varieties. The focus is on quality, regional specialties, and unique terroirs.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s primarily designed for adults interested in wine and scenic views.

The Sum Up

The Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour offers a rich, enjoyable look at the region’s best wineries, combining spectacular scenery, top-tier wines, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. With knowledgeable guides, efficient transportation, and a variety of stops, it provides excellent value for your wine-loving dollar.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, eager to learn about BC wines, or simply want a fun day out with friends, this tour promises a memorable experience. Its diverse wineries, stunning vistas, and the chance to sample some of the best wines in Canada make it a must-do for anyone visiting Kelowna.

Perfect for those who appreciate authentic, small-group adventures and are ready to sip, see, and socialize, this tour can turn a regular trip into a highlight of your vacation. Take your time to enjoy the scenery, chat with passionate winemakers, and perhaps find a new favorite bottle to take home.