The sun is shining and the vines are full of enticing grapes.
I can’t help but pick one and pop it into my mouth. It is slightly sour as it still needs a few weeks of hot Okanagan sun to fully ripen, but it is juicy and full of future fermented goodness.
I have passed through the area before and have stopped at fruit stands and the odd winery; this time I’ve come to really sink my teeth into this powerhouse of a fruit-growing and wine-making mecca.
By Mike McPhee
The arid desert of the South Okanagan is not to everyone’s taste, but it seems that fruit and vines thrive. The region suffered a devastating frost event a few years ago and no winery was unscathed. This year is a bumper crop, with grape growers expected to exceed their past average yields substantially.
The future looks good and optimism is in the air.
Exploring the Naramata Bench
We start our journey in Penticton and the famous Naramata Bench. The rolling hills with their rows of vines have an aesthetic appeal that is easy on the eyes. The winding road on the bench is fun to drive and I can see why a Porsche club would want to explore it. There are of course the bigger well-known wineries, but there are also many small boutique wineries that are charming and often hidden gems.
Evolve Sparkling House is new to the area and specializes in traditional sparkling wines, except for two that are crafted in the Charmat method. Their tasting room, perched above the lake, is as stunning as their new take on bubbles.
Evolve Sparkling House—new brand, but refined flavours.
Nearby, Poplar Grove offers a great dining experience on their outdoor terrace. The seared albacore tuna and summer pea risotto are immediate hits with my taste buds. A paired rosé is perfect and the afternoon sun a welcome companion.
Culinary offerings at Poplar Grove.
In town, we stay at The Penticton Lakeside Resort, which has recently undergone a modern update. A private beach and lakeside restaurants are perfect for post wine-tasting relaxation. Further down the waterfront, we go to Elma—a modern twist on Turkish cuisine—which is a refreshing and deliciously unique experience.
Hidden Gems of the South Okanagan
Heading south from Penticton, fruit stands beckon us to drop in for a tasting as well. Orchard Hill Estate Cidery and fruit market is well worth a stop, and their Red Roof cider is delightful.
In Oliver, Kismet Estate Winery (which also houses Manzil restaurant) is an award-winning gem. Winemaker Manpreet Dhaliwal is a rising star in the wine world and together with her sister Neelam, is producing wine and authentic South Asian food with a modern twist that is an inspiration. Though known for bold reds, their Pinot Grigio and Phulkari Rosé have won double gold at the Canadian Wine Awards. I simply love finding these hidden gems while exploring the valley.
Sisters Manpreet and Neelam are making waves and winning awards.
Down towards Oliver and Osoyoos, sun-drenched slopes produce terroir-driven wines with a distinct character of this desert area. The well-known Hester Creek produces a fantastic selection of accessible wines and has a visit-worthy restaurant. Its luxury villa provides accommodation with stunning views of the valley and vineyard. Close by, Tinhorn Creek also has a notable restaurant and tasting program.
Where Wine Meets the Racetrack
On the East side of the valley is the Black Sage Bench, which has gained a reputation for high quality grapes and car racing. Opened in 2016, the Jacques Villeneuve designed Area 27 has quickly become legendary for car racing enthusiasts.
Area 27—a must stop for racing enthusiasts.
The luxury motorsports club holds regular races on their Grand Prix track and can also hold private events. It’s not unusual to see the Ferrari club pull up. There is a viewing area if you just want a quick stop to see what’s driving on the track.
From Grand Estates to Hidden Gems
Rising from the vine covered hill like a gleaming modern monument to wine lovers, Phantom Creek is among the most luxurious wineries in Canada. Art and architecture combine with a drive to produce top-tier Bordeaux style wines. No expense was spared on the facility, art or winemaking team. Tasting here is indeed a remarkable experience and the wines are sure to impress seasoned palates.
Impressive aging vats at Phantom Creek.
A bit further on is another delightful stop. The French Door Estate Winery offers a more intimate boutique tasting experience, but also “honest, low intervention” wines. Its black and white simple branding is as welcoming as their scenic outdoor tasting room. We were especially impressed with their Malbec and Héritage blend.
Boutique producer French Door is a gem.
I must admit to being smitten with the southern Okanagan. The varied selection of wineries was unexpected and impressive. From the large well-seasoned estates to the small intimate producers, this region has the diversity and quality to truly be a wine destination. Though the number fluctuates, there are about 170 wineries in the south valley alone.
From the charming roadside fruit stands that encourage you to taste test, to the unique culinary options that add to the distinct flavours of this Canadian grower’s paradise, there is a lot to see and experience. We will be back.
Your jet is ready when you are.
Photos courtesy of Mike McPhee.