There’s nothing quite like a winter wander through BC’s largest grape-growing region, where frost-tipped sagebrush, crisp country air and cozy moments pair perfectly with a glass of elegant white or bold red. While the Okanagan Valley is a year-round escape for outdoor activities and wine-inspired indulgence, winter adds a festive flair to every getaway. 

Photo: Quails Gate Winery

Tucked in the iconic Valleys & Vineyards, the Okanagan’s thriving culinary culture and lake-dotted landscapes invite connection to place, deeply rooted in Syilx, Nlaka’pamux and Secwépemc cultures who have stewarded the lands and waters since time immemorial. While sun-soaked summers ring in effervescent energy, the cooler months herald intimate tasting experiences, new releases and holiday celebrations aplenty (and great skiing, too). From craft workshops to twinkling lights and seasonal tastings, explore the varied wines and experiences of the Okanagan Valley this winter. And, while you’re there, be sure to sample Icewine, a luxurious dessert wine born from winter’s touch. As the grapes freeze on the vine, their sugars and flavours concentrate creating a rich golden wine that pairs beautifully with holiday treats like cheese or desserts, and makes an unforgettable gift for the season.

Days 1-2: Light Up Your Winter in the North Okanagan Valley Wine Region

With a backdrop of rolling benchlands, sparkling lakes and the Monashee Mountains, the North Okanagan Valley ’s varied geography is a hub for unforgettable wine experiences and outdoor adventures alike. 

Lake Country, home of the Scenic Sips wine tasting trail, is sprinkled with lakeview vineyards. On  November 22, the community hosts Wineries for the Holidays, a constellation of unique events at 50th Parallel Wines, Intrigue Wines, Peak Cellars, Ex Nihilo Wines, and Gray Monk Winery. Hop between vineyards for festive food and wine pairings, holiday markets and gift shopping.

In East Kelowna, The View Winery hosts year-round tastings in its 1920s-era vintage building that served as an apple packinghouse in its past life. Today, the historic property grows fruit from the vine, specializing in Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Ehrenfelser and signature reds: Pinotage and Pinot Noir. Nearby, Summerhill Pyramid Winery’s November craft markets showcase 30 local artisans, a children’s market and gift-making workshops. Summerhill offers a range of Icewines for those interested in sampling the celebrated liquid gold produced in winter months. 

In East Kelowna, The View Winery hosts year-round tastings in its 1920s-era vintage building that served as an apple packinghouse in its past life. Today, the historic property grows fruit from the vine, specializing in Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Ehrenfelser and signature reds: Pinotage and Pinot Noir. Nearby, Summerhill Pyramid Winery’s November craft markets showcase 30 local artisans, a children’s market and gift-making workshops. Summerhill offers a range of Icewines for those interested in sampling the celebrated liquid gold produced in winter months. 

Across the lakeshore in West Kelowna, the Mission Hill Festival of Trees offers a twinkling tasting experience, featuring a guided tour through the spectacular estate and beautifully decorated trees, followed by a seated tasting that pairs curated wines. Just up the road, the family-run Grizzli Winery marries art, wine and community. Enjoy a leisurely tasting in the 20,000 square-foot tasting room, which is also home to the Grizzli Art Gallery, a rotating exhibit of Canadian artists. Their restaurant, 31 Charkay, is the perfect place to savour contemporary Canadian cuisine in small plates or family-style dining. Check out the Grizzli Christmas market November 29-30 to toast the holidays. If you find yourself in West Kelowna on December 7, join the Sip & Create Silk Scarf Making workshop.

In between tastings, a winter wonderland awaits in the North Okanagan. Downhill skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and cross-country tracks beckon with Canada’s longest daily groomed Nordic trail system. At SilverStar Mountain Resort, enjoy downhill skiing in fresh Okanagan powder and apres in the colourful, snowglobe-like mountain village. In December, be sure to visit their Light Up event for fireworks, fire dancers and a torchlight ski parade. In Greater Vernon, the Trails Capital of BC, e-biking the signature Okanagan Rail Trail between Coldstream and Lake Country is an especially fun activity with views of aquamarine Kalamalka Lake. Each February, the Vernon Winter Carnival hosts ice carving competitions, hot air balloons, live performances and music.

Day 3-4: Find Twinkle & Cheer In the Central Okanagan Valley Wine Region

Ski, sip, craft, explore. The Central Okanagan Valley wine region is not only a hotspot for winter wine adventures, it is also a gateway to fun seasonal excursions, including world-class skiing. 

Despite its name, the sunny town of Summerland is a must-visit wine destination all year long. Stop by Dirty Laundry Winery, for a tasting or stock up on winter wines for gifting and special occasions. 

Summerland’s Light up the Vines, on the weekends of November 28-29 and December 5-6, is a celebration of holiday cheer and craft beverages produced in the famed tasting district, Bottleneck Drive.

Located on the southern tip of Okanagan Lake near Penticton in the Naramata Bench slopes, Poplar Grove Winery’s tasting room is a bright space with three wine sampling pods. The award-winning winery produces an array of incredible varietals: Malbec, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Rosé, and more. Next, make your way to their restaurant, where seasonal flavours burst from a thoughtfully curated menu inspired by passionate local producers and quality ingredients.  

Farther south, Okanagan Falls and Skaha Lake welcome wine lovers to celebrate winter along the Heart of Wine Country tasting route. The Holiday Cheer event November 15-16 includes 12 wineries. In addition to tasting of bubbles, aromatic whites and full-bodied reds, each winery offers special extras like sweet treats, bonfires with mulled wine and live entertainment. Outside of these dates, many wineries are gearing up for winter fun, including a holiday craft series at See Ya Later Ranch.

Kelowna, the Okanagan’s urban heart, shines with illuminating Indigenous experiences and a flurry of winter excursions, from snowshoeing local trails to ice skating. Despite shorter days and winter weather, the city comes alive with holiday magic (think: fairy lights and cozy nooks). Take an Indigenous-led tour with Moccasin Trails to learn about the heritage and living culture of First Nations Peoples from the area. Big White Ski Resort, just an hour’s drive from Kelowna, is best-known for its “snow ghosts,” powder-covered trees that line the ski runs like spooky storybook characters.  

Photo: 50th Parallel Estate Winery

Day 5-6: South Okanagan Valley Wine Region

Don’t be fooled by the drier, desert-like climate of the South Okanagan Valley. Winter still makes itself seen in this wine sub-region, where the Golden Mile Bench and Golden Slopes produce bold, fruit-forward reds and characterful white wines.

Begin your South Okanagan foray at District Wine Village, an open-air space with stalls serving the best of the Okanagan: nine wineries, an artisan bakery, spirits, a microbrewery, a bookstore, and gourmet coffee. During the winter months, the village comes alive with holiday lights, events and good cheer. Check out wreathmaking workshops, a New Year’s party and brand new ice skating rink.

A great time to experience Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country is during the Winter in Wine Country event, which runs from November 29-December 1 and December 6-8. Meander between wineries, tasting the terroir from this distinct sub-region. Participate in pop up activities like a gift wrapping station, a cheese fondue party, light up events, food pairings, and crafts. Outside of this special event, many wineries remain open for the winter season, including River Stone Winery, which specializes in Bordeaux-style varietals with aromatic flavours. At vinAmité Cellars, enjoy French-inspired wines and European-style hospitality in their intimate lounge

The sprawling Burrowing Owl Estate Winery is open for tastings during the winter. Book ahead to secure your spot.  Stay and dine at The Sonora Room Restaurant, which has a program of exciting culinary experiences, including a Prix Fixe menu and a harvest Long Table Dinner Series. 

Osoyoos is the perfect launchpad into winter activities. Visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre to view First Nations exhibits, and learn stories of the land and its people. Nearby Mount Baldy is a community ski area with fluffy powder. The Osoyoos Bird Trail Outpost is a prime habitat for more than 250 bird species.

Where to Dine

With farms and local producers in all directions, dining is a beloved pastime in the Okanagan. 

In the North Okanagan, Block ONE Restaurant at 50th Parallel Estate is an OpenTable Diners’ Choice 2024 winner, and for good reason. Their varied menu brings fine ingredients from land, sea, forests and gardens to the plate. Perched high atop the benchlands near Ellison Provincial Park, both PeakFine at Sparkling Hill Resort and neighbouring RANGE Restaurant Bar + Patio at Predator Ridge serve up glittering sunsets, BC wine, and first-class menus.  

Zia’s Stonehouse in Summerland has been a local favourite for generations. Set in a heritage stone building with an inviting atmosphere, Zia’s pairs a curated BC wine list with delicious, European-forward comfort meals. Continuing south to Penticton, Socialē on the lakefront hosts an exclusive Wine Maker’s Series with the likes of Stag’s Hollow Winery and Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery. 

The South Okanagan Valley is another hotspot for epicurean delights. Adjacent to Nk’Mip Cellars, The Bear, The Fish, The Root & The Berry brings Indigenous-fusion cuisine to the forefront, pairing perfectly with the Okanagan’s vast selection of varietals. Miradoro Restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Winery brings diners on a global cuisine journey, grounded by the distinct terroir of BC wine. Fall and winter bring longtable dinners inspired by global flavours, from Swiss fondue to the kitchens of Mexico City. Continuing with the global tour of the palate, the Dhaliwal family’s Manzil Estate Winery at Kismet Estate Winery [link]serves thoughtfully curated Indian regional cuisine with local wine.

Photo: Peak Cellars

Where to Stay:
Find somewhere cozy to wind down after a day of food, drink and outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re looking for a lakeside vista or a cozy villa, you’ll be spoiled for accommodation choices in the Okanagan. Winter in wine country is not only a serene and rewarding time to visit, but also a great time to find seasonal specials and reduced rates on boutique stays.

In the North Okanagan, stay at The Lake House or The Nest at Quail’s Gate Estate Winery, which is perched on the shores of Okanagan Lake. During the quieter months, from late fall to early spring, you can get up to 50% off set rates. Meanwhile, the cottages, suites, and log home at Peak Cellars deliver rustic charm and understated elegance at quiet season rates. 

In the Central Okanagan, The Parlour House at Dirty Laundry Winery is just steps from the vineyard and sweeping views of Okanagan Lake. Also in the Central Okanagan, Westbert Winery & Guesthouse has three intimate rooms to choose from with individual ensuite bathrooms. 

Retreat to the South Okanagan, where the 10-room guesthouse at Burrowing Owl Estate Winery overlooks the sprawling 140-acre property, with 25-meter outdoor pool, a spacious sun deck and year-round hot tub. The cozy accommodations at SQuEEZeD Winery + Distillery curate a peaceful space for relaxation and wine tasting in their aptly named Chardonnay and Merlot suites. 

Getting Here:
Getting to the Okanagan is seamless. Fly into Kelowna International Airport, the region’s main hub, and you’ll be in wine country within the hour by rental car. If you’re driving from Metro Vancouver, several Rainforest to Rockies routes lead to this storied wine region. The most direct is Highway 1 to Hope, then on to Highways 5 and 97. Or, take your time and enjoy the journey along scenic Highway 3 (Crowsnest Highway), which winds through the Similkameen Valley wine region before bringing you into the South Okanagan. Check road conditions on DriveBC before you go, and ensure your vehicle is winter-ready.