Welcome to your guide to the Best Ever Osoyoos & Oliver Wineries!
If you’re looking for a truly unique wine-tasting experience, Oliver and Osoyoos is the place to be. With its stunning scenery, delicious wines, and friendly atmosphere, the Oliver and Osoyoos region is one of the best places to enjoy a glass (or two) of wine.
The Oliver and Osoyoos region is famous for its dry, sunny climate and diverse landscape. The area is home to dozens of diverse wineries, each with its own unique style. Whether you’re looking for a stunning view, delicious food pairings, or award-winning wines, you’ll find it in Oliver and Osoyoos.
The climate in Oliver and Osoyoos is ideal for growing a wide variety of grapes, and the wineries in the area reflect that diversity. From big, bold reds to refreshing whites and everything in between, there’s a wine for everyone in Oliver and Osoyoos.
To get the most out of your time in the area, we recommend visiting a few different wineries from the list below. That way, you can get a feel for the different styles of wines produced in Oliver and Osoyoos. Trust us; it’s worth the effort! Whether you’re a wine lover or simply looking for a beautiful place to relax, Oliver and Osoyoos should be at the top of your list.
Welcome to the Best Ever
Osoyoos & Oliver Wineries
Adega Estate Winery
Inspired by the rich viticulture history of Portugal, Adega’s sun-lilting charm will transport you across continents. The family who run this winery have their roots in the sunny Iberian country. As well as feeling this in the atmosphere and architecture, you can taste it in their wines. They have an excellent range of ports, a fortified wine originating from Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto. Make sure you try it to get a taste of culture that transcends the boundaries of the Okanagan.
Other than that, their winery boasts a huge patio outside its vila-esque tasting room. The view of the local valleys, hills, and grapevines unfolding from each side is the ultimate pairing for a new taste experience. The owners complement the old-world charm of the place with their winning personalities too. Make sure to try Adega’s signature wines, named after their parents Manuel and Felicidade.
Tasting Fees:
Complimentary, though they do ask for a small donation – which when you taste their vintages, you will think is fair enough!
Amenities:
- Picnic patio with a deli cooler to keep your sandwiches and snacks cool.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Osoyoos Winery:
Address: 7311-45th Street, East Osoyoos, British Columbia, Canada
Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery
To the south of Oliver, you will find an Oliver Winery that is being managed by big thinking. Owners Don and Michael may have the past to thank for the loamy calcium carbonate soils and granite cobbles that give their wines unique terroirs, but they have their minds solidly set on the future. They see their vineyard as a 200-year project, planting the right grapes in the right places and doing all they can to ensure this fertile winemaking land stays that way forever.
The passion and thought are tangible in the tastes. Sample some of their Sémillon, if it hasn’t sold out yet at least. This vital white is alive with vigorous energy, fresh as a daisy, and will leave its taste lingering on your tongue long after you’ve swallowed it down.
Tasting Experiences:
- Seated Tasting Experience of five wines with gourmet chocolate or cheese accompaniment
- Tour & Tasting Experience of five wines with accompanying cheese or chocolate, as well as vineyard, cellar, and crushed pad tour
- Tasting Bar Experience of five wines
- See tasting fees here.
Amenities:
- Reservable bring-your-own-food picnic area in the vineyard.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4821 Ryegrass Road, Oliver, BC
Black Hills Estate Winery
Seated upon the Black Sage Bench area around Oliver-Osoyoos, this Oliver winery enjoys some of the best grape-growing conditions in a region dominated by favourable conditions – lucky them! And lucky you, too, as you’ll get the chance to taste the results. If you can beat the other collectors and buyers, make sure you sample their Nota Bene, which brings together the best of Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot in a heady concoction.
Their Oliver winery has been open since 1996, meaning they’ve had plenty of time to perfect their craft, and it certainly shows. They’re still looking toward the future though, with the current focus on making their by-hand cycle-based vineyard farming even more environmentally friendly!
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- Tapas and charcuteries available for purchase in the gorgeous outdoor seating area.
Dog-Friendly:
No
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4190 Black Sage Road, Oliver BC, V0H1T1
Bordertown Vineyards & Estate Winery
Another Osoyoos winery embracing the sweltering sun and the magnificent soils of the place where Canada and America meet is Bordertown. They champion complexity of tastes above all else, across the full spectrum of wine types and even some estate-grown ciders.
While everything on offer here is delicious, we’ve got to give it to the reds. Their Cabernet Franc is moody and mysterious, with sultry tones of tobacco and dark spices, and a flirtatious hint of mint. Living Desert showcases the fruits of the scorched landscape, featuring the best local grapes and wild herbs. Don’t let us guide you too much though, you’ll want to sample a bit of everything!
Tasting Experiences:
Amenities:
- Picnic area situated in full view of glorious vistas, available for use with the purchase of a bottle.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Osoyoos Winery:
Address: 9140 92nd Avenue, Osoyoos, BC, V0H1V2
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
The burrowing owl is an odd creature, one of the many extremely threatened species that make Canada’s only desert area their home. They were declared extinct in the province in 1980, but thanks to painstaking conservation work, these unique creatures find their homes around Osoyoos once again. Since 1993, Burrowing Owl Estate Winery has been contributing to the rehabilitation of their mascot species, so far it has given over a million dollars to the cause!
Now for a little about the winery itself. This towered, castle-like building stands sentinel over the glorious vineyard-clad hills that surround it. Their range of wines spans zesty Cabernet Francs, Portuguese-style port wines, aromatic rosés, and so much more! When tasting them for yourself, you can be happy in the knowledge that your visit contributes to the area’s essential conservation.
Tasting Experiences:
Amenities:
- Various private and semi-private tours for groups.
- The Sonora Room Restaurant serves up spectacular wine-paired excellence.
- 10-room guest house offering a variety of luxurious accommodations.
- Rentable space for corporate events or retreats.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 500 Burrowing Owl Place, Oliver, British Columbia, V0H 1T1
Checkmate Artisanal Winery
Combining new-world techniques with old-world traditions, class, and elegance, this winery is known for its laser-focused dedication and the astounding results it achieves. One of the region’s most specifically-tailored wineries, Checkmate only grow and produce Merlots and Chardonnays, but they do so with aplomb.
Since 1994, the project has been taking the age-old techniques of France and the land’s local qualities to breathe new life into this pair of classic wines. Their beautiful spot in this part of the Okanagan is as unique as it comes – so why should their wines be any different? Come and experience the sights, marvel at the hand-tending process of their canopy management and cluster-thinning, and leave with a greater appreciation of what it takes to balance innovation and respect for centuries of taste honing.
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- All you’ll find on this vineyard is dedication and focus. While you’ll be free to explore beautiful tastes and landscapes, this doesn’t allow for much else amenity-wise.
Dog-Friendly:
No
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4799 Wild Rose Street, Oliver, BC, V0H 1T1
Church & State Wines
It’s always fun to get the story behind a winery’s name and see how it translates into the tastes they’ve developed. The name Church & State comes from their ‘freedom of thought’ philosophy, which centres around letting the natural qualities of the grapes and soil shine through, so that the flavours can speak for themselves, free of any guiding hand.
With respect for their mission, we won’t expand too much on the tastes to be found here. Spoilers, though, you will definitely want to pay them a visit. Get a bottle of their Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon, or the Coyote Bowl Syrah and see for yourself what we mean. While you’re at it, don’t forget to take a deep breath and soak in the splendour of the views and setting of their 85-acre vineyard!
Tasting Experiences:
Amenities:
- Exclusive winemaker tasting series, complete with accompanying cheeses and cured meats, as well as an unmatched educational experience.
- Woodwood Pizzeria woodfired and wine-paired pizza truck on-site on select weekends.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4516 Ryegrass Road, Oliver, BC, V0H 1T1
Covert Farms Family Estate
For a true Okanagan wine-based farmyard experience, look no further than Covert Farms. Their sprawling property covers 650 acres. We’re glad they’ve got so much land, because their complete commitment to totally organic and regenerative farming practices means that the area is in the best hands possible. Everything they need is grown and produced on-site, and they even have their own little squad of farmyard critters, including Scottish highland cows and Barbados blackbelly sheep!
The grounds here are as great as the wine they produce, with the option to hike or bike around the place to explore it on your own time. They also offer guided tours out of their vintage cherry-red Merc farm truck, where they will whisk you around the various highlights of their gargantuan passion project. There’s so much to do here that you might just need the whole day for your visit.
Tasting Experiences:
- Private Epicurean Grand Reserve Tasting of seven wines alongside farm-grown edible flowers and locally-sourced pickles, olives, crackers, cured meats, and artisan cheeses.
- Private Estate Tasting of five award-winning portfolio wines.
- See pricing and other experiences here.
Amenities:
- Hiking and biking trails and tours across a huge and beautiful setting.
- Organic produce for purchase and U-pick self-harvesting at Secrest Organics.
- Live music gigs are played by local musicians every Sunday from 12 pm – 4 pm in the summer.
- Various other events spanning culinary releases, exclusive tastings, and large-scale picnics.
- Special seasonal treats, especially in fall when the farm comes alive with spooky fun, kid’s games, and pumpkin patch picking.
- Rentable space for corporate events, concerts, festivals, weddings, intimate wine-paired dinners, and anything else you could need a space for.
- Hands-on petting zoo and other special kid-friendly tours, including non-alcoholic tastings.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 300 Covert Place Oliver BC V0H1T5
Culmina Family Estate Winery
Situated on the renowned Golden Mile Bench, this is an Oliver winery where nothing is left to chance. Passion and precision define Culmina, where some of the region’s very best wines are born. Before any vine is planted, detailed temperature analysis, soil mapping, soil pit analysis, and micro block mapping all take place to ensure nothing has been missed that could contribute to the betterment of the end result. After all, if you’ve been blessed with some of the best wine-growing conditions in the world, why not make the most of them?
This commitment to best-in-show excellence extends to ethical practices too. Everything you taste will be totally organic and cultivated with sustainability in mind from the start, utilizing cover crops, natural fertilizers, salmon-safe irrigation systems, and waste-nothing material repurposing practices.
Tasting Experiences:
- Provenance Tasting of estate-exclusive wines in a relaxed and educational atmosphere.
- Élevage Tasting of personalized preference-based portfolio wines.
- Savoir Tasting of the very best Culmina has to offer, complete with a personal private tour.
- View pricing here.
Amenities:
- Tours of their state-of-the-art facilities and sustainable practices.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4790 Wild Rose St. Oliver, BC
Desert Hills Estate Winery
The scrubby sun-dappled hills of Black Sage Road, near Oliver, play host to a winery whose ethos is quality over quantity. Their low-yield farming practices may have been intended to protect these special lands, but they’ve had the happy side-effect of creating exclusive award-winning tastes that just can’t be matched by any mass-production efforts.
Their Cabernet Franc is flushed with berry infusions, which dance with the tones of cherries, decadent dark chocolate, and green pepper. Malbec gets the special Okanagan treatment at Desert Hills, with their rare single varietal blend balancing blueberries, blackberries, and dill for a seductive taste as black as inky midnight. This is just a whisper of the full story that awaits you, but we’ll leave some secrets for you to discover for yourselves.
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- Black Sage Bistro serves up beautiful tapas, fresh pizzas, and other outstanding bites.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4078 Black Sage Rd. Oliver BC
Gehringer Brothers
Another Golden Mile Bench highlight can be found at the Gehringer Brothers Estate to the south of Oliver. This one is a local favourite. We would go as far as to describe it as a best-kept secret – so remember, shhhhhh, keep this one quiet and feel free to pretend it’s your connoisseur’s eye that led you there.
The rosé is the one to try here, with a taste that invigorates your entire mouth with floods of strawberries and red currants. You’ll see for yourself why it won silver in the Cascadia Wine Comp and at the Great Northwest Invitationals in 2020. Their carefully crafted icewines are another must-try. Outside of the amazing tastes, make sure to get a real feel for the grounds and revel in views that span the vineyard patchwork that stretches as far as Lake Osoyoos.
Tasting Fees:
- View tasting fees here.
Amenities:
- A variety of special one-off events and functions take place on the grounds, as well as many other venues in the local area. Find out more here.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 876 Road 8 Oliver, BC
Gold Hill Winery
The Golden Mile Bench keeps it coming with another winery dedicated to making the very most of the conditions in this part of the Okanagan. Painstaking researchers and champions of tradition, the team at Gold Hill have clearly had their noses in the archives and the annals of history, as they claim to draw upon 8,000 years of accumulated knowledge and tradition with their products. With the tastes to be found here, we certainly believe them.
Their small-batch approach to wine creation ensures that every set of bottles is as unique as the conditions that birthed them. You won’t find the tastes at the time of your visit available for long – but don’t let that cause you anxiety, as the next small batch will build upon the brilliance of the last, with learning and exploration baked into each step of the process. We were particularly spellbound by the bold, robust tastes and flavour complexities of their flagship Grand Vin, which has been aged since way back in 2014!
Tasting Experiences:
Amenities:
- Special exclusive and seasonal events are hosted throughout the year.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 3502 Fruitvale Way, Oliver BC.
Hester Creek Estate Winery
Hester Creek gets their inspiration from Italy, but like all the best wineries to be found in this slice of the Okanagan, traditions and influences take on a new life in the sterling suns and unique soil compositions that define the lands here. Their 115-acre grounds grow some of the best Syrahs, Sémillons, Pinot Gris, Petit Verdots, Malbecs, Chardonnays, and Sauvignons we’ve tried.
Their patio area deserves special mention. Not only does it bless your eyes with some of the best views of the local desert landscape, but you can also dine in luxury at their Tuscan-style restaurant and even be serenaded by live music here! It really is the full package.
You can also stay at one of six Mediterranean-style villas that offer the most splendid views of the vineyard.
Tasting Experiences:
- Complimentary Wine Tastings of up to five wines, with the tiny $3-5 fee waived whenever you purchase something.
- Signature Tasting of specially selected premium flights in an intimate space.
- Estate Tour & Tasting intimate seated tasting following an educational estate tour.
- See tasting fees here.
Amenities:
- Tuscan-style patio dining at their restaurant, Terrafina.
- Picnic patio with small plates and rotating daily fresh deli treats.
- Happy hours from 1 pm – 5 pm on weekdays, where discount wines and complimentary snacks are served in front of stunning views.
- Free live music events every Saturday from June through to September.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 877 Road 8 · Box 1605 · Oliver, BC
Intersection Estate Winery
This cute little winery, located just off an intersection on Okanagan Highway north of Osoyoos, is proof that great things come in small packages. They may only have 10 acres of vineyards at their disposal, but this ensures that every inch of them is delicately hand-tended using the very best in sustainable agricultural processes and a deep appreciation for geological intermingling at work in the soils here.
Everything you’ll find here is finely crafted by hand, with precise thinking that even accounts for which vines will see the largest amount of sun-fall at each part of the day. Their flagship Merlot is the perfect example of the results these methods achieve, with rich character and personality that makes it stand out even in this region of stand-outs.
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- Intersection keep it simple, so other than stunning views, a well-stocked wine shop, and excellent tasting room facilities, you won’t find too much else here.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 450 8 Ave, Oliver BC
La Stella Winery
La Stella’s mission statement is to uphold the living of the dolce vita, meaning ‘a life of heedless pleasure and luxury.’ And boy do they achieve it! Their particular brand of pleasure can be found in the concentrated tastes of their joyful low-yield wines, each named after a sonorous musical note. Taste it for yourself in the immersive splendour of their tasting room, fitted with hand-blown Venetian fixtures, and housed within genuinely authentic Italian architecture.
True to the traditions of Italy, their wines are not just knock-out on their own. They’re also made to be paired with soulful foods for the true dolce vita experience. Ask your tasting operator or the amazingly knowledgeable staff in their wine shop which wines pair best with which dishes and live the life of Italian hedonism
Tasting Fees:
- Inquire about standard and A Symphony for the Senses guided private tour and cellar tasting, here.
Amenities:
- Exclusive tours, educational experiences, and special events.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Osoyoos Winery:
Address: 123-148th Avenue, Osoyoos, BC
Lakeside Cellars
Situated on the eastern shores of Lake Osoyoos, Lakeside Cellars embodies a rich tapestry of bygone tales. It represents a lifelong commitment to farming that has come to fruition.
Once a vast expanse of cattle and agriculture, Lakeside Cellars now occupies a 14-acre plot of land. In 2015, Harbans and Harkesh Dhaliwal acquired this historic landmark, which holds the remnants of the old Haynes Homestead constructed in 1882.
Having acquired the lakeshore property in 2015, the Dhaliwals became custodians of the ancient vineyards of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, planted back in 1998. Their mission encompasses both upholding the agricultural traditions of the land and steering its rich history towards the contemporary Okanagan Lifestyle.
It hasn’t always been easy-going fun on the site of Lakeside, however, as the historical landmark of the Old Haynes Homestead which had stood here since 1882 was destroyed by flooding and exposure in 2016. True to the cyclical rebirth of the region, the reclaimed materials were not wasted, and instead became the building blocks for the more modern (gorgeous!) tasting room now open!
At Lakeside Cellars, visitors are now treated to the breathtaking beauty of a newly constructed lakefront tasting patio. Situated across the street from Lake Osoyoos, this stunning addition provides an idyllic setting to savour the winery’s exquisite offerings.
We loved their Rose so much, we brought a bottle back to Watermark Beach Resort.
Tasting Fees:
- Inquire about tasting fees here.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes, on leash. (Spy our Brandy in the background of one of the shots?)
Visit this Osoyoos Winery:
Address: 5221 Lakeshore Drive, Osoyoos BC
Liber Estates
Liber Estates, founded by Mike and Nicole Dowell, beautifully embodies their dedication to organic practices and the creation of premium Certified Organic wines.
The story of Liber Estates began in 2016 when Mike and Nicole acquired this Certified Organic farm with an established vineyard growing Merlot and Chardonnay. It was their passion for organics and their desire to produce premium wines that led them to transform the vineyard into the thriving winery it is today.
Liber Estates nurtures two distinct vineyards, each blessed with its own unique terroir. The first vineyard, nestled along the serene Similkameen River south of Keremeos, benefits from the river’s gentle influence. The Similkameen terroir imparts a special character to the grapes, with its well-drained sandy soils, ample sunshine, and cool breezes that create ideal growing conditions for grape varieties to flourish. The resulting wines showcase a harmonious balance of fruit expression and vibrant acidity, reflective of the Similkameen’s terroir.
At their second vineyard in Osoyoos, Liber Estates embraces a terroir that captivates with its distinct qualities. Located in the heart of the South Okanagan Valley, Osoyoos boasts a unique microclimate characterized by hot summers, ample sunlight, and a moderating effect from nearby lakes. The terroir of Osoyoos contributes to the development of grapes with intense flavours, depth, and complexity.
Through careful cultivation and respect for the individual terroir of each vineyard, Liber Estates harnesses the unique characteristics of these regions to craft wines that reflect the distinctiveness and diversity of the Similkameen and Osoyoos terroirs.
Among the impressive offerings at Liber Estates we had the pleasure of tasting, two remarkable wines stood out. The first was their REBIL Chardonnay, we are becoming real “chard-core” fans, lately! We were also thrilled to have the opportunity to sip on their exclusive REBIL Craftsman’s Blend, a special treat reserved exclusively for members of their wine club.
Their Hello Sunshine wine stood out, boasting a unique feature – it is conveniently available in a can. This innovative packaging makes Hello Sunshine the perfect selection for beach outings along the enchanting Okanagan shorelines. Given the recent policy change allowing alcohol on some of these sandy stretches, the can format provides the utmost convenience, allowing us to savour every sip without the concern of glassware.
Our visit to Liber Estates was truly a remarkable experience, filled with the love and passion Mike and Nicole have poured into their wines. The dedication to organic practices, the welcoming orchard setting, and the impeccable taste of their wines left a lasting impression on us. Liber Estates is a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast seeking exceptional wines crafted with a deep respect for the land and the environment.
Tasting Fees:
- Inquire about tasting fees here.
Dog-Friendly:
No.
Visit this Osoyoos Winery:
Address: 14000 Hwy 97 Osoyoos BC
Maverick Estate Winery
What does it mean to be a maverick? The dictionary defines it as ‘an unorthodox or independently-minded person.’ We think that’s a pretty accurate description of the operation over at Maverick Estate, where each inch of the soil is treated uniquely for its own personality. Their personally tried-and-tested approach to cultivating the finest grapes by hand has led to boatloads of awards over the years.
Maverick can be used to describe the tastes too. Their Bush Vine Syrah layers chocolates, red berries, and spice blends on top of olive tapenade notes and peppermint hints for show-stopping results. The Renegade Red expresses itself with flavours of sour cherry, decadent black forest gateaux, coffee, to name just a small fraction. To see what we mean, you’ll just have to try them for yourself.
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- Estate tours of the vineyards and cellars.
- Special maverick events throughout the year.
- Beautiful picnic patio area.
Dog-Friendly:
No.
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 3974 Highway 97, Oliver, BC
Moon Curser Vineyards
What is a moon curser we hear you ask? Well, the term comes from old Osoyoos gold rush legends, where smugglers would sneak their goods across the lands in the dead of night, only to be caught when the brilliant moonlight illuminated them. That’s where the playful names of their vintages like Moonstruck, Contraband, and Dead of Night come from.
Don’t worry though, there’s more than a good theme and a great story behind Moon Curser. Their wide-reaching reputation comes from a preference for planting grapes that have never seen Okanagan soil before, like Touriga Nacional, Dolcetto, and Tannat. With skill, expertise, and a whole lot of love, these vines flourish in the unique conditions here and become vintages you won’t find anywhere else.
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- Special events are hosted here including special tastings, functions, and live music.
Dog-Friendly:
No.
Visit this Osoyoos Winery:
Address: 3628 Highway 3 East, Osoyoos, BC
Nk’Mip Cellars
ForNk’Mip, pronounced ‘in-ka-meep,’ is a shining star in the heart of southern Okanagan. As North America’s first indigenous-owned winery, they have paved the way for a more inclusive viticulture scene and brought the First Nations’ millennia-spanning natural stewardship practices into the vineyards. The first vines were planted here as far back as 1968, and they haven’t taken their foot off the pioneering pedal since.
A tour of their 18,000 square feet of facilities is a must-do for anyone visiting Osoyoos Wineries. The glory of nature and pieces of the past are on full display here, with artifacts and artistic triumphs found throughout the grounds. They’ve got multiple eateries, a head-spinning array of outdoor activities, protected ecological wonderlands, architectural innovation, and, of course, multi-award-winning vintages on offer here. And that’s not even half of it!
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- Indigenous-inspired cuisine across multiple restaurants, patios, and cafés.
- Interpretative culture experiences, natural reserves, artistic displays, and many other educational and exploratory experiences.
- Resort-style accommodation and lakefront campgrounds.
- Outdoor adventuring opportunities galore.
Dog-Friendly:
No.
Visit this Osoyoos Winery:
Address: 1400 Rancher Creek Road Osoyoos, BC
Nostalgia Wines
Nostalgia Wines, formerly known as Oliver Twist, is a fan-favourite winery to be found in neighbouring Oliver. Empowered women especially should mark this place as a must-visit, as the single mother who runs it is also the chief winemaker and their almost-all-female staff are dedicated to showing the world how it’s done. There’s also an adorable flower-wreathed classic truck on the grounds that makes for the perfect photo-op!
Wine-wise, it’s all excellent too. Whether you opt for their classic 2018 Merlot with suave cocoa, butterscotch, and juicy plum tones and a velvety finish with just a touch of acidity, or their delectable honeysuckle and tangerine Kerner, you’re going to need to bring a bottle (or six!) home with you. The ladies are masters of a good pairing too, so make sure to ask them what meals to serve your purchases alongside.
Tasting Fees:
- Memorable Wine Experience of five wines and a complimentary branded Riedel glass to keep.
Standard flight-of-five guided tasting. - See pricing here.
Amenities:
- Special events are hosted here, including exclusive tastings, poppin’ parties, classic car shows, one-off sales, and press releases.
- Food for purchase on-site and a beautiful patio area to enjoy it on.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address:
Phantom Creek Estates
Picture rows upon rows of carefully hand-tended vines shining in the glory of the Okanagan sun, backed by orange-tinted desert mountains, and you’re some of the way to understanding the bliss in store at Phantom Creek. As well as sublime natural views and rich history, Phantom Creek is home to a team who are the leading local authority on organic biodynamic grape farming techniques. 30 different varieties now thrive here in perfect equilibrium with the natural landscape, thanks to the very best in sustainable farming practices.
Their wines are the very definition of premium goodness. Even their cheapest offerings such as the 2019 Riesling capture the essence of the valley with baked stone fruit flavours, Okanagan herb hints, and bright citrus and white grapefruit highlights that simulate the valley’s sunshine. If you’ve got a bit more to spend, their Phantom Creek Vineyard Syrah will leave you speechless with its mindboggling complexity that combines confectionaries, silk, and deep, dark, irresistible flavours.
Tasting Fees:
- Pricing varies, depending on how luxurious you want to go. View pricing here.
Amenities:
- Stunning artisanal delights are served at their restaurant.
- Crazily luxurious and one-of-a-kind tours and events, including the mythical Founder’s Cellar Experience and a tour of the grounds and tasting that takes place by helicopter! See them all here.
- Private air travel will fly you and your group directly to the vineyard from anywhere in the world.
- Gorgeous event spaces for private functions, corporate happenings, or anything else you could need them for.
Dog-Friendly:
No.
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4315 Black Sage Road Oliver, BC
Platinum Bench Estate Winery & Artisan Bread Co.
This multi-disciplinary destination is one to visit early in the morning, because while the wines may be evergreen, you will want to get some of their signature homemade sourdough while it’s still warm and freshly baked. That and the day’s batch will probably be completely sold out if you delay too much, as they only bake 300 loaves per 24 hours. Yes, they’re that popular – and deservedly so too!
The tastings at Platinum Bench don’t just focus on the terroirs of the extensive wine range, they create a multi-sensory experience through pairings with variously-topped sourdoughs. Delight in the heady aroma of fresh baking, cut through it with the notes of your chosen vintage, and finally, enjoy a match made in heaven as you sample them both together.
Tasting Fees:
- Bench Tasting of four wines and bread pairs
- Premium Tasting of five extra-special premium wines and bread pairs
- View pricing here.
Amenities:
- Bakery selling fresh artisanal breads, local cheeses, charcuteries, and preserves.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4120 Black Sage Rd, Oliver BC
Red Barn Winery at Jagged Rock
Nestled amidst the sprawling vineyard rows of Jagged Rock, the Red Barn Winery beckons with a fascinating origin story. Initially conceived as a humble working barn and equipment storage unit, its purpose has since evolved into something far more extraordinary.
This unassuming structure, once hidden amongst the vines, has been transformed into a vibrant haven of creativity—a sanctuary where inspiration intertwines with the act of savouring exceptional wines.
The barn’s stark exterior serves as a metaphorical gateway, inviting intrepid souls to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. Inside, a meticulously crafted collection of rebellious wines awaits, each one meticulously designed to challenge conventions and disrupt the norm. Yet, this deviation from the ordinary is not for the sake of mere differentiation; it is a purposeful endeavour to push boundaries and forge a new path. At the Red Barn Winery, every sip becomes an invitation to embrace the beautifully unconventional, to indulge in wines that ignite curiosity and spark a sense of wonder.
Perched on the Black Sage Bench, the vibrant red barn of Red Barn Winery at Jagged Rock stands out prominently against the Okanagan Valley backdrop.
Contrary to its austere appearance, this futuristic winery is a hub of innovation and creativity. Led by winemaker Kaylee Barss, the team has embraced forward-thinking winemaking techniques, producing some of the most groundbreaking wines in the region.
Renowned architect Tom Kundig seamlessly blended contemporary design with the region’s agricultural landscape, creating a stunning facility that exceeds expectations and pays homage to the valley’s pioneer past.
Inside, a meticulously crafted collection of rebellious wines awaits, each one meticulously designed to challenge conventions and disrupt the norm. Yet, this deviation from the ordinary is not for the sake of mere differentiation; it is a purposeful endeavour to push boundaries and forge a new path. At the Red Barn Winery, every sip becomes an invitation to embrace the beautifully unconventional, to indulge in wines that ignite curiosity and spark a sense of wonder.
Although every single wine we tasted here was incredible, we have to say our favourite is reserved for members only but it is one of the best wines we have tasted in the valley. The name? Parts Unknown. And its secret? The Italian Grape – Barbera. Wow, this was a delicious wine. It took me quite a while to even take a sip, I just wanted to keep enjoying the smell, which was so hard to describe, so original. Like Black Forest Cake. It’s now sold out, but watch for the 2022 coming soon!
Tasting Fees:
- Immersive seated experience invites you on a captivating journey through their production area with a private tour
- Rebel rendezvous on the patio, where you can delight in wine by the glass perfectly paired with wild bites
- View pricing here.
Amenities:
- Seasonal events
Dog-Friendly:
No.
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4305 Black Sage Rd, Oliver BC
River Stone Estate Winery
In a knoll in the centre of the valley that catches the shadow from McIntyre Bluff, you can find the quaint family-owned winery of River Stone. Humble in their origins and their approach, they’ve decked their little slice of paradise out with a classic ranch-style house and rows and rows of fantastically tended grapes just brimming with Okanagan flavour and spirit.
Their 2018 Corner Stone is the pick of the bunch. It won the bronze medal at last year’s National Wine Awards of Canada, and features a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Even that mouthful list does not give justice to the full-bodied complexity of this fruit-centric red.
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- The quaintest two-bedroom cottage you ever did see available for use as rental accommodation.
- Various events throughout the year – just hope you can time your visit with their riotous grape-stomping festivities.
- Beautiful picnic area for you and your family to enjoy along with the purchase of one of their gorgeous vintages.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 143 Buchanon Drive Oliver BC
Road 13 Vineyards
Would you like to step out of the modern world and into a timeless fairy tale… where they also serve stellar wine? If so, get yourself down to Route 13 Vineyards. At the centre of their glorious grounds sits the winery itself, all enchanted Scottish castle-style crenelations and blankets of deep green ivy. Within its walls you can find their wine of the day, which is free to try every time, you never know what you’ll discover – as if you needed any other reason to keep coming back for more.
The vines outside their castle door and across the road are lovingly handled, one plant at a time. That’s because Route 13 knows you can’t rush things if you want to get the biggest, boldest flavours in the red wines you’re deservedly known for.
Tasting Experiences:
Amenities:
- Special seasonal events, educational workshops, and other one-off occurrences.
- Gourmet snacks, charcuteries, and other accompaniments are available on-site.
- Fairy-tale patio to enjoy for all your picnicking needs.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 799 Ponderosa Road Oliver BC
Rust Wine Co.
There’s something special about the rural, rustic setting of this quaint winery. It might be the fact that many of their vineyards have their original planting dates as far back as 1968, making them a real piece of history. Or it might be the heritage house on the property with its living desert roof hanges with passing seasons – just like the best flavours of the Okanagan.
Whatever it is, it’s certainly compounded by the fact that each of their five vineyards is dedicated to producing pristine small-batch single-vineyard wines. Perhaps the most impressive block is found on the Summer Breeze Vineyard, where continuous organic farming has coaxed this arid plot to produce the most distinguished Syrahs and Merlots. Or maybe you are most impressed by the fact that this Oliver winery is home to some of BC’s only true Zinfandel vines.
Tasting Fees:
- View tasting information here.
Amenities:
- Rustic rental accommodation with some of the best views to be found in all of the Okanagan.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4444 Golden Mile Bench, Oliver BC
Silver Sage Winery
Many people do not realize that Romania is the 11th largest wine producer in the world. However, Anna Manola at the helm of Silver Sage certainly knows all about it, as she has personally brought the viticultural heritage of her homeland directly to the Okanagan. We’ve never tasted the wines of Romania personally, but if they’re as bold and playful as vintages to be found at Silver Sage, we might just have to pencil a visit into next year’s plans.
Notorious for mischievous tastes that light up the palate with more than just a hint of chili, rest assured your experience will be a unique one. Of course, there are calmer vintages on offer. But honestly, even if you’re not usually a spice fan, you’d be mad not to sample something from their signature Flame aperitif collection.
Tasting Fees:
- Complimentary
Amenities:
- Elegant events space for all your reception, corporate, or private gathering needs – with a gorgeous balcony space featuring incredible views to boot.
- Choose your vibes with rental accommodation across the Passion Room, Sunset Room, and Pearl Room.
Dog-Friendly:
Yes!
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 4852 Ryegrass Road Oliver BC
VinAmité Cellars
In case it wasn’t evident from their killer name, this family-run winery is well worth stopping by on any Osoyoos wine tour. Their hidden gem vineyards are dedicated to bringing the best of past and present to bear on traditional French recipes and grape varietals, such as their Viognier that oozes luxury with hive-fresh honey, notes of subtle caramel, and a finishing process that utilizes authentic imported French puncheon barrels.
Your whole visit will be the very classiest affair, as you sink into the smooth musical ambiance of their lounge and sample delicate French-Okanagan fusion terroirs paired with amuse-bouches to titillate the tastebuds.
Tasting Fees:
Amenities:
- A well-stocked pantry full of tasty artisanal treats to take home with you, including a bewildering variety of the best cheeses, preserves, compotes, olive oils, foraged goods, and house-made jellies, to name just a few.
- Delicate Charcuterie Cones for sale, featuring a who’s who of the best accompaniments their establishment has to offer.
- Private hosting area for your events and corporate function needs.
Dog-Friendly:
No.
Visit this Oliver Winery:
Address: 5381 HYW 97 Oliver BC
District Wine Village
Want to taste a selection of the best wines from the region in one spot? Visit the District Wine Village in Oliver, a cluster of 13 wineries that have joined together to offer visitors an easy way to taste wines while learning about the wine-making process and the fine folks behind the labels.
Oliver & Osooyoos Wine Tours
There really is no better way to experience the greatest range of Osoyoos and Oliver’s wineries in stress-free style than to charter a wine tour for your group. After all, that way nobody has to worry about drawing the short straw to become the designated driver – plus your new chauffeur will have plenty of Okanagan wisdom to share with you between destinations.
Even in small towns like Oliver and Osoyoos, the surrounding fertile countryside demands plenty of tour operators. We’ve assembled a list of the best below so that you can pick out exactly the right experience for your needs.
If you are staying in Osoyoos, check out our guide to the Best Osoyoos Restaurants to ensure you don’t head out wine tasting on an empty tummy!
Best Place to Stay in Osoyoos
When venturing through the wineries of Osoyoos, there is no better place to stay than Watermark Beach Resort. This exceptional destination not only offers a gateway to the captivating wonders of the region but also serves as the ideal accommodation for your wine tour adventure. With its strategic location and unparalleled amenities, Watermark Beach Resort ensures that your experience exploring the Osoyoos wineries is nothing short of perfection.
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