Kelowna's winter wine scene offers a unique, seasonal experience, combining the beauty of a winter landscape with the rich flavours and aromas of local wines. Let's explore the various events that are a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
The Okanagan Winter Wine Festival
This festival, a re-imagined event, takes place predominantly in the southern valley, with a northern pit-stop. The TASTE Passport guides guests through six curated experiences at the Wine Village on January 20-21, including icewine cocktails at Winterfest in the District Wine Village in Oliver. On January 22 at Predator Ridge Resort near Vernon with a Burgundy-inspired event, showcasing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The grand finale occurs on January 27-28 in Penticton, featuring "Sensation — An Eve for the Senses," a sensory-inspired tasting event with culinary pairings and multisensory entertainment.
Grizzli Winery Ice Wine Tours
Grizzli Winery, located in West Kelowna, offers a unique winter experience with guided Icewine tours and tastings. From January to March, visitors can explore the Icewine making process and taste award-winning VQA icewines. This 30-minute tour includes a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process and a guided tasting flight in their expansive tasting room and art gallery.
Wine Tasting at Local Wineries
Kelowna's wineries remain open during the winter, offering a more intimate and less crowded tasting experience. The winter months provide a unique opportunity to explore the local wineries and discover the diverse range of wines produced in the region.
Winter Wonderland at Quails’ Gate Winery
This event, held on November 18-19 at Quail's Gate Winery, invites guests to wander the estate and immerse themselves in holiday wonder. It includes feature wine tastings, in-store promotions, carollers, wood-fired pizza, and a giving tree fundraiser. This annual event brings together the community and visitors for a festive celebration.
Kelowna's winter wine events provide a unique opportunity to explore the world of wine in a serene winter setting. These events offer a blend of sensory experiences, from tasting the rich flavours of local wines to exploring the beauty of the wineries in the winter landscape. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, these events are a must-visit for an unforgettable winter experience in Kelowna.