Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens…
- Lili
- Sep 18, 2017
- 3 min read
This is about one of my favorite places: The Okanagan Valley.
Located in southern BC, just 400 km from Vancouver, there’s a magical place where the dreams are made. The Okanagan Valley, comprehending several lake-shore towns, amazing views, fantastic wineries, and a smell of freshness in the air.
The region offers a wide range of activities from farmer’s markets to hikes and trails. There, you can have a complete experience including nature, wine, cheese, fresh vegetables and fruit, lake beaches, and so much more!
Today, let’s talk about some of my favorite wineries…
The name says everything: This is a family owned winery and vineyards since 1783. They have easy access by BC-97, in Summerland, so you can visit them on your way there, or coming back, or both (highly recommended).
They have a wide selection of wines, grapes, and blends for you to try and pick your favorite. I, personally, am a big fan of their roses, especially the bubbly Confidence. But they offer almost everything they have for tasting. If you can’t go there right now, don’t be sad. Check where you can find their wine all over BC here.
Another one of my favorite places, Thornhaven has everything you need: fantastic view, welcoming staff, enjoyable patio, and wine, of course! The tasting comprehends all the menu when available. And it’s very hard to choose from the amazing variety of quality wines they make. Personally, I like them all, but if I had to pick only one, it would be the Infusion, dark rose semi-sweet sparkling wine, made with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, And Pinot Meunier grapes that results in a velvety classy bubbly that can make any moment better.
This lovely winery sits on Little Giant’s Head Mountain, with a spectacular view of both Okanagan Lake and the magnificent surrounding mountains, an area many people have likened to Tuscany. Take a picnic basket with you, choose your favorite wine, and have a seat on the beautiful patio for an unforgettable experience.
Located on the high bluffs above Naramata, this winery will grow roots in your heart. With a nice variety of high-quality wines and a small and warm tasting room, the knowledgeable staff will put you up to date on their new releases and classics. The Unoaked Chardonnay is an instant classic that I hope they keep producing for generations. It’s a smooth and earthy wine with a citrus twist. Or, as my boyfriend defines it “A very chuggable wine”.
And if you’re looking for some jaw-dropping experience, check their accommodation: Deep Roots Cabin in the Vines, with a lake view deck facing the sunset. It’s seriously amazing!
An awarded winery, Bench 1775 is located on the southern shore of Lake Okanagan. Named after the address of the winery, 1775 Naramata Road, in the beautiful Naramata Bench, this winery is a celebration of land and place.
With astonishing views, gigantic patio, and gorgeous tasting room, this is an experience for all your senses. Feel free to grab your favorite bottle and enjoy it calmly on the patio, just absorbing the greatness around you.
This is a triple threat: winery, fresh craft cheese, and pizza on the patio. What else do you want?
In the cozy tasting room, surrender to this world of tastes and textures that will blow up your mind. Choose between the bar tasting ($5 redeemable with purchase) or the seated tasting ($10 redeemable with minimum $50 purchase) including 5 wines, 3 kinds of cheese, crackers or baguette, and the history of the winery provided by the knowledgeable staff while you’re sitting on the patio.
All of the wineries offer some differential to their customers like wine clubs, restaurants, accommodations, and more! So take a look at each website to make the best of your stay!
Cheers!
Comments