Taste The Essence of Summerland
Bottleneck Drive’s Multi-Faceted Journey through Wine, Beer, Spirits, and Cider
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Okanagan Valley, Summerland beckons travellers seeking an escape to a warm and inviting atmosphere. This idyllic small town is renowned for its exceptional touring routes, particularly the famous Bottleneck Drive, where visitors can immerse themselves in a delightful array of experiences, from savoring fine wines to relishing artisanal beverages like beer, spirits, and cider. What sets this region apart is the embrace of small, family-run operations, ensuring an authentic and personalized journey for every guest.
Once you step foot in Summerland, you’re instantly captivated by the genuine hospitality of the locals. Known as one of the friendliest towns in the Okanagan Valley, the warmth and welcoming nature of its residents leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re wandering through charming boutiques, grabbing groceries, or exploring the town’s scenic lakeshore parks, you’ll find yourself engaged in cheerful conversations and receiving valuable insider tips from fellow visitors and locals alike.
Welcome to Bottleneck Drive in Summerland, BC
Undoubtedly, one of the most memorable highlights of a Summerland visit is taking an exciting journey along Bottleneck Drive. At every stop, you’re greeted with open arms, creating an atmosphere that invites you to linger and embrace the unhurried pace of life. This unpretentious and relaxed ambiance sets Summerland apart as a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and heartwarming experience.
Conveniently situated just off Highway 97 at the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Summerland effortlessly accommodates travellers from all walks of life. From adventurous couples to families seeking quality time together, the town offers a diverse range of activities, including hiking, shopping, biking, and water sports. Each experience is elevated by the town’s serene natural beauty, complementing the sense of community that permeates every corner of Summerland.
For those who yearn to immerse themselves in a destination that radiates genuine charm and warmth, Summerland stands out as the Okanagan Valley’s most welcoming gem. A visit here promises not only breathtaking sights but also a heartwarming embrace from a community that truly makes you feel at home.
Sip, Sample and Soak In the Delights of Bottleneck Drive
Get ready for a remarkable journey along Bottleneck Drive in Summerland, where the passion for exceptional wine, beer, spirits, and cider is palpable. This enjoyable touring route includes a collection of 18 member wineries, cideries, distilleries, and breweries, each offering visitors an unforgettable experience.
Ron & Tracy from Lightning Rock Winery
What truly sets Bottleneck Drive apart and makes it an unforgettable journey is the extraordinary people who pour their hearts and souls into these businesses. As you step into the welcoming embrace of each winery, cidery, distillery, and brewery, you’ll immediately sense the genuine passion and expertise exuding from the proprietors and staff.
These remarkable individuals are more than just hosts; they are artisans of their craft, custodians of tradition, and visionaries for the future. With a twinkle in their eyes, they eagerly guide you through tastings, inviting you to explore the symphony of flavours that dance upon your palate. Their depth of knowledge is awe-inspiring, and they take delight in sharing the intricate details of their production methods and the journey of their creations from vine to bottle.
Beyond the technical aspects, it’s the stories they recount that breathe life into each glass of wine, every bottle of cider, and every drop of spirits or beer. Tales of generational legacies, tales of struggles and triumphs, tales of profound connections to the land—all these stories are woven into the fabric of Bottleneck Drive’s essence. And it is through these narratives that a sense of connection forms between you and these extraordinary individuals. You’re no longer just a visitor; you become part of their story, and they become part of yours.
Their warm hospitality envelops you like a long-lost friend coming home. With genuine smiles and open hearts, they create an ambiance where every visitor is treated like family. You’ll find yourself engaged in animated conversations that effortlessly flow from wine preferences to local culture, from the subtle art of cider-making to the spirited tales behind their craft beer selections. It is this sense of intimacy and personal connection that elevates each visit beyond a mere tasting event, transforming it into a profound and cherished memory.
Every winery, cidery, distillery, and brewery along Bottleneck Drive becomes a living testament to the dreams and aspirations of these passionate individuals. Their unwavering dedication to their craft is evident in every drop you savour, leaving an indelible mark on your heart as you bid farewell to each unique stop.
It is through the people of Bottleneck Drive that this extraordinary touring route becomes a beautiful experience of human connection and creativity. Their spirit, enthusiasm, and profound commitment to creating exceptional experiences make each visit a journey of discovery, joy, and camaraderie. As you leave, you carry not only the taste of their creations but also the warmth of their hospitality, inspiring you to return time and again to this wondrous land where wine, beer, spirits, and cider become more than libations; they become a conduit to the souls of those who craft them with unwavering love.
Set Out On a Scenic Adventure
Touring Routes of Bottleneck Drive
Bottleneck Drive’s touring routes wind through a breathtaking landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity and glacial retreats, resulting in a mesmerizing terroir. The rugged clay cliffs, deep gullies, creeks, and lakeshores create a maze that beckons you to lose yourself in the journey of exploration.
Bottleneck Drive Map
(Courtesy Bottleneck Drive)
North Route
The North Route leads you on a scenic adventure through Summerland’s finest wineries and distilleries. Discover the natural beauty of the region while savouring award-winning wines from Haywire Winery, Sage Hills Estate Winery, and OAK Estate Winery, each offering a unique style and flavour. For an intriguing twist, Alchemist Distiller and Controlled Entropy Distilling present craft spirits made with local ingredients. Sustainable winemaking practices shine at Solvero Wines and Garnet Valley Ranch, offering exceptional wines and warm welcomes. The North Route is an immersive experience into the best of Summerland’s wine and spirits scene.
West Route
Calling all cider and beer enthusiasts! The West Route is a must-visit for you. Begin your journey at family-run Summergate Winery, then dive into the refreshing ciders of Millionaires’ Row Cider Co. and Dominion Cider Co., each with its unique twist. Craft beer lovers will rejoice at Detonate Brewing Co., tantalizing taste buds with their hoppy delights. Round out the route with Nomad Cider, offering a blend of traditional and modern cider-making techniques for a truly memorable experience.
(Stay tuned for our full guide to Summerland Cider, Beer and Spirits coming soon!)
East Route
The East Route promises a scenic expedition, boasting canyons and vistas that will take your breath away. Explore Lightning Rock Winery, Heaven’s Gate Estate Winery, Lunessence Winery & Vineyard, and Dirty Laundry Vineyard, each offering a captivating taste of the region. Immerse yourself in the diverse offerings of Sleeping Giant Fruit Winery, known for a range of unique fruit wines, and Summerland Heritage Cider Company, renowned for crafting traditional ciders with heritage apple varieties.
All Aboard The Grand Sommelier Express
The Grand Sommelier Express event is a pinnacle celebration of Summerland’s most exceptional wines, gourmet cuisine, and awe-inspiring scenery, woven together to create an unforgettable experience. Once a year, this exclusive event unites wine enthusiasts, sommeliers, and renowned winemakers for an indulgent journey of taste and discovery. With a resounding purpose to showcase the finest wines from the Okanagan region, guests embark on a remarkable gastronomic adventure.
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s renowned wine country, the charming town of Summerland hosts The Grand Sommelier Express, where idyllic vineyards, rolling hills, and panoramic views set the stage for this extraordinary wine journey.
Brought to life by passionate organizers and key partners of the Bottleneck Drive Association, this exceptional event is a collaborative effort of esteemed Summerland wineries and distinguished culinary experts at Brodo Kitchen. Together, they curate an unparalleled selection of wines and culinary delights, ensuring a symphony of flavours awaits the guests.
With meticulous attention to detail, the event organizers work tirelessly to exceed expectations at every turn. Aboard the Grand Sommelier Express, guests can anticipate an unrivalled experience, where every sip and every bite tells a tale of passion, excellence, and the essence of Summerland’s finest creations.
Step into this gastronomic extravaganza, where The Grand Sommelier Express invites you to savour the artistry of Summerland’s winemakers and the mastery of culinary wizards, all against the backdrop of this mesmerizing wine region. It is a journey that lingers in the heart, capturing the soul of the Okanagan’s finest offerings and leaving guests with memories to be cherished for a lifetime.
Where to Stay in Summerland
Retreat to Summerland Waterfront Resort: Your Gateway to the Okanagan’s Hidden Gem
Held within Summerland’s scenic embrace, the Summerland Waterfront Resort beckons as a gateway to the town’s enchanting essence. Perched along Okanagan Lake’s shores, it’s where natural beauty, community spirit, and lavish comfort harmonize seamlessly.
Step into a world where modern elegance blends with rugged outdoor allure, offering a portal to Summerland’s charm and captivating adventures. With Lake Okanagan stretching before you, tranquility reigns, and each meticulously designed accommodation grants a front-row view to the town’s sought-after beauty.
Indulge in an array of amenities catering to every facet of your stay – from crystal-clear lake waters to the spa’s soothing embrace and delectable cuisine celebrating the region’s culinary heritage. Whether for relaxation or adventure, the resort serves as a sanctuary, a launchpad to unforgettable experiences amidst Summerland’s magic.
