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Leading wine critic James Suckling turns the spotlight on the Okanagan Valley

July 3, 2026 / by: Wines of British Columbia

More than 200 wines crossed James Suckling’s tasting table during a five-day tour of the Okanagan Valley.

His report, “Iced Out No Longer: Okanagan Valley Warms Up to World-Class Wines”, explores the wineries, vineyards, and people behind one of Canada’s most exciting wine regions. Along the way, Suckling found vibrant Rieslings, elegant Chardonnays, expressive Pinot Noirs, structured Syrahs, and a community of winemakers he described as “serious” and “calm, focused and welcoming.”

For British Columbia’s wine industry, reviews like this mark another milestone in a story that has been decades in the making. In the late 1980s, growers made a bold decision to replace hybrid and table grape varieties with Vitis vinifera, the same family of grapes behind many of the world’s most celebrated wines. At the same time, the VQA designation established a standard for wines made entirely from BC-grown grapes.

Today, British Columbia is home to more than 300 wineries. Most are independently owned vineyards that range from lakeside benches to steep mountain slopes. Many produce only a few thousand cases each year, allowing winemakers to focus on individual vineyard blocks, small-lot fermentation, and wines with a unique sense of place that’s well worth a visit. Travelers often meet the people who planted the vines, farm the land, or crafted the wines in their glass. That close connection between vineyard, winery, and guest has become one of the defining characteristics of our region.

A Buyer’s Guide to James Suckling’s Favourite BC Varietals

Beyond tasting notes and scores, James Suckling describes dramatic vineyard landscapes, welcoming wineries, and a region whose confidence is evident in every stop along the way. His review focuses on the Okanagan Valley, but it reflects the dedication, craftsmanship, and spirit that have helped shape British Columbia’s reputation as one of Canada’s premier wine-producing provinces.

Ready to explore? Try these stand-out varietals:

Start with Riesling

Bright, refreshing, and beautifully food friendly, Riesling has become one of British Columbia’s signature wines. Styles range from bone dry to delicately off-dry, with vibrant citrus, orchard fruit, and crisp natural acidity. Seek out bottles from Tantalus Vineyards, Phantom Creek Estates, and Martin’s Lane.

Subscribe at JamesSuckling.com for full reviews and tasting notes.

Discover Chardonnay

Suckling found BC Chardonnay among the strongest wines he tasted, praising examples that balance freshness, texture, and restrained oak. Standout mentions include 1 Mill Road Winery, CheckMate Artisanal Winery and Meyer Family Vineyards.

Subscribe at JamesSuckling.com for full reviews and tasting notes.

Explore Pinot Noir

Elegant, vibrant, and site-driven, BC Pinot Noir stood out for its balance and sense of place. Lighting Rock Winery, SpearHead Winery, and Stoneboat Winery.

Subscribe at JamesSuckling.com for full reviews and tasting notes.

Seek out Syrah

Syrah remains one of the stars of the south Okanagan Valley. Rich, savoury, and layered, these wines reflect the warm growing conditions that have made the region one of Canada’s benchmark locations for Syrah. Explore Le Vieux Pin Winery, Moon Curser Vineyards, and Poplar Grove Winery.

Subscribe at JamesSuckling.com for full reviews and tasting notes.

GET TO KNOW THE TWO BIG CABS

Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon thrive in British Columbia’s warmest wine-growing regions, producing wines with remarkable depth, structure, and elegance. These varieties showcase the power, balance, and character of world-class terroir in the Okanagan Valley. Power house producers include Painted Rock Estate, Poplar Grove, and Tinhorn Creek.

Appreciate the Art of the Blend

BC wineries are crafting exceptional red and white blends that showcase the creativity of their winemakers and the diversity of the vineyards. From vibrant, aromatic whites to complex, food-friendly red. Look for flagship blends from Terravista Vineyards, Hester Creek Family Estate, Black Hills Estate Winery and Osoyoos Larose.

Subscribe at JamesSuckling.com for full reviews and tasting notes.

Don’t Miss the Sparkling and Rosé

The Okanagan Valley’s hot days and cool nights create ideal conditions for traditional method sparkling wine and fresh rosés. Fine bubbles, lively acidity, and remarkable freshness have made these two styles some of the province’s most exciting categories. Look for benchmark bottles from Evolve Sparkling House, Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery, Black Hills Estate Winery and Phantom Creek Estates.

Subscribe at JamesSuckling.com for full reviews and tasting notes.

Ready to Taste from the Source?

Some of the province’s most celebrated wines are only a short drive away. Continue the journey by visiting the featured wineries. There’s never been a better time in BC to discover what’s in the glass, explore curated Wines of BC itineraries.

A note for wineries and industry partners:

Wineries and trade members wishing to access and use JamesSuckling.com tasting notes and scores for commercial purposes should subscribe directly at JamesSuckling.com

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