Kelowna Wine Cider Spirits Beer Tour

When it comes to exploring Kelowna and the larger Okanagan Valley, a tour that combines wine, cider, spirits, and craft beer offers a well-rounded glimpse into this region’s vibrant beverage scene. The Kelowna Wine Cider Spirits Beer Tour by Metropolis Wine Tours promises a full day of tasting, learning, and enjoying some spectacular views — all in about 4 to 7 hours. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it’s a lively, well-organized way to get a variety of flavors without the hassle of driving.

What stands out immediately are the variety of stops—from award-winning vineyards to a 3D winery experience—and the inclusive nature of the tour, which makes it appealing to those who want a relaxed yet informative day. Two elements we particularly like are the beautiful panoramic views at Tantalus Vineyards and the chance to visit Summerhill Pyramid Winery, where you can tour the iconic pyramid and enjoy organic wines. A potential consideration is the lack of included lunch, so you might want to plan for a meal or snacks afterward, especially if you’re prone to tasting fatigue.

This tour is ideal for those with a curious palate who enjoy a mix of wine, cider, spirits, and beer. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and want to explore multiple beverage styles in one day. Whether you’re a wine lover, a craft beer fan, or simply someone looking for a fun way to spend a day in Kelowna, this tour offers a lot of value.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Visit 2 wineries, a cidery, a distillery, and a craft brewery, making for a full spectrum of local libations.
• Beautiful scenery: The tour includes stops with panoramic views of the Okanagan Valley, making the experience visually as well as gustatorily rewarding.
• Inclusive admission: All tasting fees and access to attractions like the Great Pyramid are included, adding value.
• Snacks provided: Costco snacks and bottled water help keep everyone satisfied through the day.
• Flexible duration: The tour runs from about 4 to 7 hours, so you can choose a more relaxed or more intense experience.
• No lunch included: You’ll need to plan for your own meal, which allows flexibility but also means you might want to bring additional snacks.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Tantalus Vineyards

Starting the tour at Tantalus Vineyards, you’ll be greeted with award-winning Rieslings. The Vines sit on a balcony overlooking the Okanagan Valley, making it a stunning place to sip and soak in the views. We love how this stop sets a refined tone, with 45 minutes enough to taste and enjoy the scenery. The included admission ticket ensures you won’t have to worry about extra charges here.

Stop 2: Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Next up is Summerhill Pyramid Winery, home to the famous Great Pyramid of Kelowna. This stop offers a guided tour of the pyramid, where organic wines take center stage. The highlight here is the chance to taste a diverse range of organic wines. The winery also features a terrace restaurant, where you can stay for lunch or dinner—though this isn’t included in the tour. Imagine sipping wine with panoramic valley views—a memorable experience. The 30-minute visit feels just right to appreciate both the wine and the iconic structure.

Stop 3: The Vibrant Vine

For something a bit different, The Vibrant Vine offers the world’s only 3D winery experience. Using 3D glasses, you’ll see art and labels come alive, adding an artistic twist to your tasting. This stop provides a playful and visually engaging experience, perfect for those who appreciate a mix of art and wine. The 30-minute time slot keeps the pace lively without feeling rushed.

Stop 4: The View Winery and Vineyard

Set in the historic 1922 apple packing house, this stop invites you to taste cider or wine in a rustic, authentic setting. The original buildings add a touch of local history to your tasting, making it more than just a wine stop. It’s a nice reminder of Kelowna’s agricultural roots, and the 30-minute duration ensures you get a good taste without lingering too long.

Stop 5: SOMA Craft Cidery

A highlight for cider lovers, SOMA is run by the creators of Club Penguin, making it a bit of a Kelowna success story. Their wide variety of ciders promises something for all, from sweet to dry and everything in between. Tasting here is an opportunity to sample locally crafted ciders that you might find hard to access elsewhere, making it a worthwhile stop.

Stop 6: Luckhurst Farm & Distillery

At Luckhurst Farm, you can sample Lemon Cello and other spirits crafted on-site. The farm’s unique setting—complete with animals—adds a relaxed, farm-to-glass vibe. Tasting cocktails and spirits here feels like a genuine peek into local production, and the 45-minute stop balances tasting with a brief look at the farm’s environment.

Stop 7: Red Bird Brewing

The final stop takes you into Kelowna’s downtown craft beer scene at Red Bird Brewing. They offer an extensive lineup of brews, showcasing the diversity of local craft brewing. With 45 minutes here, you’ll get a good sampling of beers, and the lively atmosphere makes for a fitting end to a day of tasting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes admission tickets for all stops, a selection of snacks (including gluten-free options like veggie thins), and bottled water. All tastings are covered, offering great value considering the variety of stops. However, lunch is not included, so plan ahead if you’re hungry—whether by packing a snack or deciding to dine at one of the winery restaurants.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour begins at 11:00 am, so arriving a little early is advisable.
• Pickup is offered, which simplifies transportation, especially if you’re staying outside of Kelowna’s city core.
• The group size maxes out at 40, so it’s a social but not overcrowded experience.
• Confirmations are prompt, and free cancellations are available up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind.
• Service animals are allowed, making the tour accessible for travelers with disabilities or emotional support animals.

Authentic Experience and Value

Looking at the price—$163.66 per person—this tour offers a solid combination of variety, education, and scenic beauty. The included attractions like Tantalus and Summerhill are some of the top spots in the valley, and visiting a 3D winery and a farm distillery adds some unique flavor. The all-inclusive tasting fees mean you won’t be surprised by extra costs, and snacks keep your energy up for the day.

While it’s a bit of a whirlwind, most travelers seem to appreciate the well-paced stops and the diversity of experiences. The tour doesn’t just focus on wine; it captures the region’s spirit through cider, spirits, and craft beer—all while offering plenty of opportunities for photos, conversations, and relaxing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine and craft beverage enthusiasts looking to sample a broad spectrum of local offerings. It’s equally suited for curious travelers who want to learn about the region’s beverage culture in a relaxed, guided environment. If you enjoy scenic views and a little education along the way, you’ll find this tour a rewarding way to spend a day in Kelowna.

However, if your ideal day involves a sit-down, sit-and-sip experience with an included meal, you might find this tour a bit light on food options. But for those who prefer flexibility and a taste of everything, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Kelowna Wine Cider Spirits Beer Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of the region’s beverage scene in a manageable, enjoyable package. It balances scenic views, diverse tastings, and a touch of local culture without feeling rushed. It’s great for curious travelers who want to discover Kelowna’s flavors while enjoying its natural beauty.

For those who value variety, appreciate good organization, and don’t mind bringing along a snack or two for the road, this tour provides excellent value. It’s especially suited for groups wanting a fun, engaging, and hassle-free way to explore the valley’s beverage offerings in one memorable day.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 7 hours, depending on the group and pace, starting at 11:00 am.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easier to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about driving.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 40 travelers, so it’s lively but not overcrowded.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, all tasting fees at the wineries, cidery, distillery, and brewery are included.

Can I bring my own snacks or food?
While snacks are provided, you are free to bring additional snacks or plan to eat lunch afterward, as it is not included.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s designed for adults enjoying tasting experiences.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor scenery is recommended, especially since some stops have scenic views.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

Is there a recommended amount of time at each stop?
Stops generally last between 30 and 45 minutes, enough to taste and enjoy without feeling rushed.

In all, the Kelowna Wine Cider Spirits Beer Tour combines the best of what the valley has to offer — beautiful scenery, engaging stops, and a variety of local beverages — making it a worthwhile outing for those eager to get a taste of Kelowna’s spirited side.