Discover
SOUTH KELOWNA SLOPES Wine Country
South Kelowna Wine region
The South Kelowna Slopes sub-GI encompasses an area of 1977 acres on the gentle, mixed glacial slopes in the South Mission area of the city of Kelowna.
The northerly latitude results in a cool climate with the nearby Okanagan Lake having a big moderating influence creating cooler days, warmer nights and a long growing season. The sub-GI stretches from lake level up to between 500-600 metres elevation where arable land exits. Elevation and aspect have an impact on temperatures within the sub-GI with extended growing degree days in lower sites that are closer to the lake.
FACT: Estimated average 1324 to 1423 growing degree days depending on site location.
FACT: The geology of the sub-GI has been created by a mix of wind, water, and gravity since glaciation in the area around 12,000 years ago, mostly resulting in glaciofluvial (glacial meltwater) soils with a few pockets of deposited finer glaciolacustrine (lake bottom) soils. Around 50% of the region is glaciofluvial gravelly subsoil with a sandy or sandy loam topsoil layer. Some concentrated areas have deep, stone free, sandy soils.
Due to its proximity to the city of Kelowna, the wineries within the sub-GI are a popular destination for wine tourism throughout the year.
Fun Fact
SOUTH KELOWNA SLOPES
WINERIES
Exploring British Columbia’s vineyards reveals the unique terroir & diverse varietals flourishing in this picturesque Canadian province.
Kelowna
Kelowna
Kelowna
Kelowna
Kelowna
Kelowna
Kelowna
Kelowna
EXPLORE
MORE BC WINE REGIONS
The Okanagan Valley
10,920
Acres Planted
210
Licensed Grape Wineries
With an ever-changing panorama, the valley stretches over 250 kilometres, across sub-regions, each with distinct soil and climate conditions suited to growing a range of varietals from sun-ripened reds to lively fresh and often crisp whites.
Kootenays
117
Acres Planted
7
Licensed Grape Wineries
Located in the southeastern corner of British Columbia, the Kootenay region is home to pristine rivers, lakes, waterfalls, beaches, mineral hot springs, alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains.
Shuswap
107
Acres Planted
6
Licensed Grape Wineries
Wines have been produced here since 1997, predominately of cool climate varieties, which is understandable as it is one of the most northerly grapegrowing regions in North America.
Thompson Valley
93
Acres Planted
3
Licensed Grape Wineries
Nestled amongst the natural beauty of the North and South Thompson Rivers in and around Kamloops, the rain shadow of the high coastal mountains, the semi-arid conditions and diverse microclimates provide many creative options for our winemakers to shine.
The Similkameen Valley
768
Acres Planted
17
Licensed Grape Wineries
The Similkameen Valley is a pristine stretch of vineyards, set amongst the dramatic backdrop of rugged and awe-inspiring mountains. Considered the “organic capital of Canada”, the area is known for small farms and producers dedicated to creating quality produce, delectable foods, and award-winning wines.
Fraser Valley
194
Acres Planted
28
Licensed Grape Wineries
Encompassing Vancouver, Surrey, Richmond, New Westminster to Delta, Langley, Aldergrove and Abbotsford in the east, the Fraser Valley wine region is dedicated to producing high quality, handcrafted wines with diverse varieties and styles: from unique fruit wines to delicious sparkling wines to fresh, fruit-forward table wines to fortified.
Lillooet
51
Acres Planted
2
Licensed Grape Wineries
One of the oldest towns in the province, Lillooet is located at the southern tip of the Cariboo Chilcotin region of British Columbia. The climate is very similar to the traditional grapegrowing regions in the Okanagan Valley with long, hot, dry summers. However, nights are cooler, making average summer temperatures slightly lower than the Okanagan, but at the same time preserving the fresh crisp acidity in the wines.
Gulf Islands
110
Acres Planted
11
Licensed Grape Wineries
A vibrant community of wine producing islands – Salt Spring, Pender, Saturna, Quadra, Gabriola, Hornby, Denman – offer a glimpse into an easygoing lifestyle that allows time to savour the quiet moments with a fitting variety of unpretentious wines.
Vancouver Island
321
Acres Planted
22
Licensed Grape Wineries
On Vancouver Island, grape winemaking really began after a provincial government-funded trial – the Duncan Project – identified Pinot Gris, Auxerrois and Ortega as promising varieties for this unique seaside environment.
Newsletter
Subscribe to the Vine
Get the details on. BC wine Events, contests, recipes, and promotions delivered right to your inbox.
Explore
Recipes & Blog Posts
Our Taste & Terroir blog features stories and advice from top guides in wine, food, travel and more.
Blistered Shishito Peppers on Grilled Sourdough with White Bean Hummus and Beetroot Tartare with Pear Butter and Kale Oil
Crostini
Easy Blini
Crème Fraîche
Homemade Ricotta
Spanish Grilled Cheese and Smoky Cream of Tomato Soup
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with BC Wine: Romance, Wine and Unforgettable Moments
From Celebrations to Everyday: The Champagne Appeal of BC Sparkling Wine
BC Wines and Holiday Parties: Perfect Pairings for Every Celebration
The Perfect Snack & BC Wine Pairings for Autumn Adventures
BC Wine News: How BC Wine Country Is Preparing for a Strong Comeback
