Okanagan Falls Private Wine Tour – Full Day

A Guide to the Okanagan Falls Private Wine Tour – Full Day

Imagine spending a day exploring some of the most scenic corners of British Columbia’s wine country, sipping thoughtfully curated wines, and chatting with passionate vintners. That’s exactly what this Okanagan Falls Private Wine Tour offers. Designed for those who appreciate small-scale, boutique wineries and personalized experiences, this tour promises a relaxed yet engaging day in one of Canada’s most beautiful wine regions.

We’re drawn to this tour’s emphasis on handcrafted, family-owned wineries and its flexibility—it’s tailored to your interests. The fact that it includes round-trip transportation from Kelowna, West Kelowna, or Penticton makes it especially convenient. One thing to keep in mind: the cost is around $211 per person, which can seem a little steep for some, but when you consider the personalized service, quality tastings, and the scenic beauty, it’s often justified. This experience suits couples, small groups, or anyone wanting an authentic, intimate wine adventure without the fuss of large tour buses.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with private transportation and customizable winery stops
• Taste a variety of unique wines, including orange wines and small-lot blends
• Visit family-owned wineries that emphasize handcrafted quality
• Includes tasting fees, snacks, and bottled water—no hidden costs
• Flexible options for winery choices and tasting upgrades
• Ideal for wine lovers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience in stunning surroundings

What You Can Expect from the Okanagan Falls Private Wine Tour

This tour is a full roughly five-hour experience that’s just enough time to enjoy a handful of stops without feeling rushed. The itinerary is flexible, but the core stops give you a taste of what makes this region special.

The Itinerary and Why It Matters

Stop 1: See Ya Later Ranch

Your journey begins at See Ya Later Ranch, home to the largest Gewürztraminer planting outside of Germany. This is a real highlight for whites, with wines that range from aromatic to crisp, and reds that are luscious and barrel-fermented. We loved the way this winery combines tradition with innovation, offering a range of outstanding personality-packed wines. The tasting here lasts about 45 minutes, and your fee includes the tasting, making it a convenient start. The setting itself is picturesque, and the staff are friendly and eager to share their passion.

Taste Tip: Their whites are especially memorable, and the reds have a complex, barrel-aged richness that’s well worth savoring.

Stop 2: Stags Hollow Winery

Next, you’ll head to Stags Hollow, known for its Rhône varietals and small-lot blends. This spot stands out thanks to its juicy, flavored Cult wines like Tragically Vidal, a must-try for those interested in unique expressions. They also serve some of the region’s best orange wines, giving you a chance to explore something a bit different from the usual. The tasting experience here lasts another 45 minutes, with admission fees included.

Insight: The orange wine is quite a conversation starter—it’s made by extracting color and flavor from grape skins, giving it a distinctive hue and taste.

Stop 3: Meyer Family Vineyards

A visit to Meyer offers a chance to sample an exceptional range of Pinot Noir, including their micro cuvée. This winery emphasizes high-quality craftsmanship, and their wines showcase the region’s capacity for producing elegant reds. The tasting lasts around 45 minutes, and again, tasting fees are included.

Loving the details: The boutique feel here means you’ll likely get a more intimate, educational experience, with staff eager to discuss the nuances of Pinot Noir.

Stop 4: Noble Ridge Vineyard and Winery

With stunning views looking southward, Noble Ridge presents a chance to see how winemaking is done by hand on-site. The focus on noble grape varieties and the dedication of their team shine through in the wines. The view alone makes this a worthwhile stop, and the tasting here is free—no charge for the experience, just the joy of sampling well-made wines in a breathtaking setting.

Why it matters: The combination of stellar scenery and handcrafted wines makes Noble Ridge a highlight, especially for those who appreciate the artistry behind each bottle.

Stop 5: Nighthawk Vineyards

The final stop is at Nighthawk Vineyards, a family-owned, boutique winery offering a farmgate experience. Situated in a high valley landscape, this is a chance to see the region’s agricultural roots and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a small winery. The tastings there are also free, and the setting creates a perfect backdrop for reflective sipping.

Authenticity: Many reviews mention how welcoming and personal this stop feels, emphasizing the genuine farm-to-glass vibe.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is quite straightforward on the inclusions: tasting fees, bottled water, and snacks are covered. Tasting upgrades are available if you wish to sample more premium wines. While snacks are not currently provided due to COVID-19, bottled water is available to stay hydrated through your tasting journey.

Note: The tour does not include lunch, but the operator can help you reserve a sit-down meal at a nearby restaurant. It’s worth planning ahead for that if you want a full day of indulgence.

The Experience and Your Guide

What truly elevates this tour are the knowledgeable guides and the personalized approach. From reviews, we learn that guides like Sach and Alan are friendly, well-informed, and motivated to make sure you get the most from your day. The private nature of the tour means your group gets undivided attention, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting a tailored experience.

Transportation and Comfort

The vehicle is described as clean and comfortable, making the roughly 45-minute drives between wineries pleasant, especially with scenic views on the way. Pickup is available from hotels, Airbnbs, RV parks, and campgrounds in Penticton, Kelowna, and West Kelowna, simplifying logistics.

Timing and Pacing

The schedule appears well-balanced—each winery gets about 45 minutes, ample for tasting and chatting without feeling rushed. The total duration is about five hours, making it doable in a half-day format, perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive experience.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Considering the price of about $211 per person, the value lies in the personalized experience, quality tastings, and scenic locations. Most reviews rave about the warm, friendly guides and the spectacular wines, especially the orange wines and Pinot Noirs. It’s clear that this tour offers a good balance between educational insight and enjoyment, especially for those who love discovering small wineries with passionate owners.

However, it’s worth noting that some might find the price steep if they prefer self-guided or larger group tours. But if you’re after a bespoke experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour delivers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or wine aficionados who appreciate quality over quantity. It’s a great choice if you want to avoid large bus crowds, enjoy flexible winery selections, and have a relaxed, informative day in stunning surroundings. If you’re curious about orange wines or small-lot blends, this tour’s focus on boutique wineries will satisfy your curiosity.

Final Thoughts

The Okanagan Falls Private Wine Tour offers an authentic, personalized taste of British Columbia’s wine country. The combination of stunning vistas, passionate winemakers, and diverse wines makes for a rewarding day. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking for a memorable way to experience the region, this tour hits all the right notes.

If you value small-scale, handcrafted wines and a guide who genuinely cares about your experience, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a chance to slow down, savor great wines, and soak up a piece of Canada’s beautiful Okanagan landscape—all in one memorable day.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, providing enough time to visit five wineries without feeling rushed.

Are tasting fees included?
Yes, all tasting fees are covered in the tour price, including at each winery stop.

Can I customize the winery visits?
Absolutely. The list of wineries can be tailored upon request, making the experience even more personal.

What is the pickup zone?
Pickup is available from hotels, Airbnbs, RV parks, and campgrounds in Penticton, Kelowna, and West Kelowna. Other areas like Vernon, Summerland, Oliver, and Osoyoos require a call to the office.

Are snacks provided?
Snacks are included, but current COVID-19 precautions mean snacks are not provided at this time. Bottled water is available.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those with dietary restrictions?
While primarily a wine tasting tour, the private nature allows some flexibility. Contact the provider ahead to discuss any specific needs.

What about tour cancellation?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

In summary, this private Okanagan Falls wine tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, authentic wines, and expert tastings. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a personalized approach and want to explore some of the region’s top boutique wineries in a relaxed setting. If you’re ready for a day of wine, scenery, and good company, this tour might just be your perfect match.