A Taste of West Kelowna: The Full-Day Wine Tour Experience
Imagine spending a leisurely day exploring West Kelowna’s vineyard-covered hills, sampling up to 24 wines, and enjoying a relaxed, scenic lunch. For around $145 per person, this full-day tour offers a fantastic way to learn about the Okanagan Valley’s winemaking charm. With pickup in West Kelowna and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, your journey begins at 10:30 am, guided by knowledgeable hosts eager to share their love for local wines and the stories behind each estate.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety. Visiting five wineries, from a family-owned organic farm to a historic estate formerly owned by a BC Premier, means you’ll get a broad taste of the region’s diversity. Second, the scenic vineyard lunch provides a perfect break to enjoy the views and refuel—just remember to bring your wallet for some wine purchases or extra treats. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the cost of lunch, which isn’t included, so budget accordingly.
This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers wanting a taste of local culture, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with social sipping. If you enjoy learning about winemaking, exploring different styles, and relaxing in a beautiful setting, this experience offers great value. Plus, with a maximum of 14 travelers, it’s intimate enough for genuine conversations without feeling rushed.
Key Points
- Diverse Wineries: From organic estates to historic family-run vineyards, the tour offers a broad spectrum of styles and histories.
- Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the visit with insights into each winery’s story and wine production.
- Scenic Views & Lunch: Enjoy stunning vineyard vistas paired with a scenic, relaxed lunch (bring extra for food and wine purchases).
- All-Inclusive Tastings: The tour covers tasting fees, bottled water, and a wine concierge, making it convenient.
- Comfortable Transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a relaxed journey between stops.
- Group Size: With only 14 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, ideal for conversation and personalized attention.
Planning more time in Kelowna and Okanagan Valley? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Exploring the West Kelowna Wine Trail in Depth
A Day Crafted for Wine Lovers
We found that the tour’s 6-hour format strikes a perfect balance—long enough to enjoy each winery without feeling rushed. The pickup service in West Kelowna is a real convenience, eliminating the need to navigate or worry about parking. Once aboard, the group’s small size fosters a friendly, relaxed vibe, allowing you to truly savor each stop.
Rollingdale Winery: Family Roots & Orchard Charm
Our journey begins at Rollingdale Winery, a family-operated farm gate estate. What’s special here is the connection to the land—its roots lie in orchards of apples, peaches, and cherries, which gives their wines a unique sense of place. The 30-minute tasting session includes admission, and the setting’s charm is amplified by the farm’s history and the scenic orchard views. Reviewers appreciate the authentic, down-to-earth atmosphere, describing it as a “great start to the day” with “beautiful surroundings.”
Off The Grid Organic Winery: A Century of Family Tradition
Next, we visited Off The Grid Organic Winery, a family business with over a century of history. The Paynter family’s story is compelling—they emigrated from England in 1909 and turned their farm into an organic vineyard. The 30-minute tasting here highlights their commitment to organic practices, which many visitors find inspiring. Reviewers note that the wines are excellent, and the chance to learn about organic farming adds a meaningful layer to the experience.
Frind Estate Winery: A Historic Estate with a View
Frind Estate stands out as a scenic spot with a rich history—it was once home to a BC Premier, Bill Bennett. The vineyard’s location on Boucherie Road offers sweeping views of Okanagan Lake, making it a favorite for many travelers. The 30-minute tasting includes some of their acclaimed wines, and guests often comment on the “beautiful setting” and “delicious, well-curated wine list.” The estate reflects the region’s blend of history and modern winemaking.
Kalala Organic Estate Winery: Nature and Award-Winning Wines
Kalala’s motto is “miracle place,” and it lives up to that with its organic approach. Karnail Sidhu, a third-generation organic farmer, crafts wines from organic grapes in harmony with nature. The free tasting here is a highlight, with many reviewers praising the award-winning wines and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect stop for those who appreciate organic practices and want to support sustainable farming.
Little Straw Vineyards: A Family’s European Roots
Although this stop does not include a tasting fee, it’s noted for its European-inspired family history. The Slamka family arrived from Czechoslovakia in 1969, planting their first vineyard with the original plan to sell grapes to larger wineries. Today, their vines and winery remain a local treasure, and the story adds a personal touch for visitors. Some guests find it a relaxing, less formal stop, ideal for strolling and soaking in the countryside.
Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery: Artistry in Every Bottle
This estate emphasizes winemaking as an art, and the 30-minute tasting often includes some of the region’s finest. Reviewers find that the passion of the winemakers shines through in the quality of their wines. Its location on the hillside offers panoramic views, making it a memorable part of the tour.
Volcanic Hills Winery: A Dream Realized
Founded by Sarwan Gidda, Volcanic Hills showcases the perseverance of a man who arrived in Canada with just $5. The family’s story, combined with their world-class wines, makes this stop stand out. Expect to taste wines that reflect the volcanic soil and unique terroir of the region. Many guests mention the high-quality selections and the welcoming atmosphere.
The Gallery Winery: From Vacant Land to Vineyard
A true story of transformation, The Gallery Winery was originally an abandoned vineyard purchased in 1980 by Kirstin and Natasha’s parents. Today, it’s a thriving winery where you can enjoy tastings amid beautiful grounds. Some reviewers appreciate its artistic vibe and the personal touch of the owners, making it feel like a hidden gem.
The Modest Butcher: Farm-to-Table Dining
While not part of the tasting package, the Modest Butcher Kitchen + Market offers farm-fresh dishes that perfectly complement your wine day. It’s ideal for a relaxed, farm-to-table meal (note that lunch is not included but can be purchased separately). Visitors rave about their casual vibe and local ingredients, making it a worthwhile stop to cap your day.
Practical Details and What to Expect
Transportation: The tour is conducted in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the entire experience stress-free. With pickups and drop-offs in West Kelowna, you won’t need to worry about driving or parking.
Timing: The schedule is well-paced, with 30-minute stops at most wineries, giving enough time to taste, chat, and enjoy the surroundings. The hour-long lunch at The Modest Butcher is a perfect chance to relax and reflect on the day.
Group Size: With a maximum of 14 travelers, the atmosphere remains intimate and lively. This size encourages interaction, which many guests find enhances the overall experience.
Cost and Value: The $144.76 cost covers all tasting fees, bottled water, and a knowledgeable guide. However, lunch and wine purchases are extras. Many guests feel this represents good value considering the variety of wineries and the quality of the experience.
Availability: The tour is usually booked about 37 days in advance but can be flexible if you plan ahead. It starts at 10:30 am, and a full refund is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Who’s This Tour Best For?
If you’re someone who loves wine, enjoys scenic drives, and appreciates a personal touch, this tour hits the mark. It suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and learning. The small group setting makes it perfect for couples, friends, or solo adventurers wanting a relaxed yet informative day. It’s especially ideal for those interested in organic wines or historical estates, but the variety ensures there’s something for all.
The Sum Up
This West Kelowna full-day wine tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the Okanagan Valley’s wine scene. From family-run organic farms to historic estates, the experience is both educational and enjoyable. The scenic vineyard views, paired with expert guides and a delicious lunch, make it a memorable outing whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious newcomer.
While the additional costs for lunch and wine purchases are worth considering, the overall value – especially given the small group size and diverse stops – makes it a worthwhile splurge. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day soaking up the beautiful landscape, tasting excellent wines, and learning about the region’s passion for winemaking.
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup and drop-off in West Kelowna, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience and opportunity for interaction.
Are tasting fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all tasting fees at each winery, as well as bottled water and a wine concierge.
Is food included?
Lunch is not included in the price; it is a scenic vineyard lunch you can buy separately, so bring extra cash if you want to indulge.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic drives, learning about wine, and relaxed small-group outings.
This tour is a delightful way to explore West Kelowna’s wine country, offering a blend of beautiful scenery, authentic stories, and excellent wine tasting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day in one of Canada’s most picturesque regions, it promises a genuine taste of the Okanagan’s charm.