Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour – 5 wineries on the tour

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with beautiful scenery, award-winning wines, and the chance to learn from passionate local guides, then the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour might just be your next great adventure. This tour offers a well-paced journey through some of the top wineries in the Okanagan Valley, with plenty of opportunities to savor the region’s best, all while enjoying the company of a small, friendly group.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the stunning views of vineyards and Okanagan Lake that accompany each stop, and the knowledgeable guides who make each tasting session engaging and educational. The tour strikes a good balance between fun and informative, making it suitable for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

One possible consideration is the duration variability—the full experience can range from three to six hours, depending on how much time you spend at each winery. This flexibility means you should plan your day accordingly, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Ideal for those who want to taste a variety of wines while soaking in beautiful scenery, this tour is perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking to combine wine tasting with sightseeing in a relaxed, lively setting.

Key Points

• Small group size offers personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Includes five wineries, including renowned spots like Summerhill Pyramid Winery and CedarCreek Estate.
• Guides are highly praised for their flexibility, knowledge, and friendly demeanor.
• Stunning vineyard and lake views enhance the tasting experience.
• Cost offers good value considering multiple tastings, snacks, water, and transportation included.
• Dress-up encouraged for a fun, themed experience, adding a playful twist to your day.

An Introduction to the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour

This review covers a popular and highly rated wine tour in the Kelowna and Okanagan Valley area that gathers five distinct wineries into a single, enjoyable outing. If you’re keen on sampling some of the best wines British Columbia has to offer, combined with scenic vistas and expert commentary, this tour delivers on all fronts.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the variety of wineries visited. Each winery has its unique vibe, from family-owned estates to large, award-winning producers. Second, the personalized touch provided by the guide, ensuring everyone feels engaged and comfortable.

A potential downside could be the length of the tour—depending on how long you linger at each stop, it could stretch out to six hours. If you’re in a hurry or have limited time, you might want to inquire about the typical schedule. However, for those who love to savor every moment and taste, this flexible touring style is a plus.

This tour is best suited for wine lovers wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed tasting experience, and for visitors eager to enjoy Kelowna’s picturesque vineyards with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: The View Winery and Vineyard

Our journey begins with The View Winery, a family-run operation perched above Kelowna offering spectacular views of the city and Okanagan Lake. Known for their aromatic, cool-climate whites, they take pride in their quality. The setting itself is an Instagram-worthy backdrop, perfect for snapping photos while sampling their wines. Expect about 30 minutes here, giving you enough time to appreciate the estate and enjoy your tasting. Reviewers loved the friendly atmosphere and the focus on quality, with one noting, “We loved the way the winery’s commitment to quality shone through in their wines.”

Stop 2: The Vibrant Vine Winery

Next, we move to The Vibrant Vine, a boutique winery established in 2003. This spot is noted for its artistic vibe and family-friendly atmosphere, blending wine, music, and art into one experience. Wyn and Marion Lewis developed their passion here from just seven years and 8,000 Pinot vines, making it a true reflection of local craftsmanship. The 30-minute stop is perfect for appreciating their unique approach. One guest called it a “high-octane fun” experience, highlighting the playful spirit of this stop.

Stop 3: Summerhill Pyramid Winery

A highlight for many, Summerhill is famous for its biodynamic and organic practices, and their pyramid-shaped cellars are visually striking. They aim to craft the most beautiful wines in the world, and many visitors agree they succeed. The emphasis on organic grapes and attention to detail makes their wines stand out. This 30-minute tasting offers insights into biodynamic winemaking, which you might find particularly interesting if you’re into sustainable practices.

Stop 4: Sandhill Wines

Sandhill Wines boasts a collection of grapes sourced from six different BC vineyards, including Phantom Creek and Osprey Ridge. This diversity means you taste a variety of styles and terroirs, providing a broad perspective on Okanagan’s wine potential. The tasting experience here often emphasizes vintage variation and vineyard-specific characteristics. Reviewers note the quality and diversity as major pluses, with one saying, “Each bottle tells a different story, and the attention to detail is evident.”

Stop 5: Priest Creek Family Estate Winery

Priest Creek is a quintessential family-owned estate featuring a selection of premium wines designed to be enjoyed now or cellared for future savoring. Their focus on quality and tradition appeals to those who appreciate craftsmanship. The 30-minute visit offers a chance to learn about their wine-making philosophy and sample their top picks. Guests often comment on the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes tasting here a pleasure.

Stops 6-9: SpearHead, Camelot, CedarCreek, Meadow Vista Honey Wines, Sperling Vineyards

This section of the tour introduces a variety of winemaking styles—estate-grown grapes at SpearHead, historic charm at Camelot, the innovative Home Block at CedarCreek, honey wines at Meadow Vista, and finely crafted Sperling Vineyards. Each of these stops offers about 30 minutes to taste wines, learn their stories, and enjoy the scenery.

• SpearHead emphasizes premium estate wines, with reviews praising their focus on quality.
• Camelot Vineyards offers a long-standing family tradition, adding a sense of history.
• CedarCreek’s Home Block is a smaller, boutique experience, perfect for those who love artisan wines.
• Meadow Vista, where honey wines are produced on a farm, provides a sweet twist.
• Sperling showcases a dedicated approach to vineyard viticulture, with visitors appreciating their respect for terroir.

Final stops: Honey wines and the vineyards’ finish

The last stops blend agriculture and winemaking, with Meadow Vista offering honey wines crafted from local bees, and Sperling providing a respectful approach to vineyard management. These stops often evoke admiration for the local dedication and craftsmanship.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The small group size (up to 14 people) is a big plus, ensuring personalized service and the chance to ask questions freely. The air-conditioned vehicle makes traveling between wineries comfortable, especially on warm days. Plus, the door-to-door pickup simplifies logistics, allowing you to relax from start to finish.

Tastings are included—except for potential charges for specialty wines like ice wine—making it easier to budget. The tour also provides bottled water and snacks, ensuring you’re well-hydrated and energized. The option to dress up in costumes adds a layer of fun, especially if you’re celebrating a special event or just want to go all out for a themed day.

The pricing at $155.15 per person offers good value considering the number of wineries, tasting fees, and the personalized experience. For what you get, it’s a fair investment for a day of enjoyment in one of Canada’s most scenic wine regions.

Authentic Experiences, Not Just Tasting

The reviews echo what we suspected: the guides really make this tour stand out. Rod, the host, is praised for his flexibility, attentiveness, and friendly demeanor. Guests appreciate how he adapts to their schedules, making each tour feel custom-tailored. One reviewer said, “Rod was very flexible and easy to be around,” which is important when you’re spending several hours together.

The views are another big highlight. The vineyards and lake vistas are more than just pretty backdrops—they add to the relaxing, immersive vibe that makes the day memorable. Many guests mention that the scenery enhances every tasting, making each sip feel even more special.

The wineries themselves are thoughtfully chosen, representing the best of the Okanagan’s diverse wine scene. From family-run estates to biodynamic pioneers, each stop offers a different perspective on what makes this region unique.

For those who enjoy a lively, fun atmosphere, the costume theme and the possibility to enter a contest for a year’s wine club membership elevate the experience beyond just tasting wine. It’s clear that this tour aims to make wine tasting approachable and enjoyable, no matter your level of expertise.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Best For?

This Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour is best suited for those who appreciate balance—a mix of scenic beauty, quality wine, and engaging storytelling. It’s ideal if you’re in Kelowna for a few days and want an authentic, relaxed way to explore the region’s wineries without the hassle of self-driving.

It’s also great for groups or couples looking for a fun, interactive experience that makes the most of the local scenery and winemaking expertise. If you’re a fan of small groups and personalized attention, this tour delivers that in spades.

The flexible duration means you can tailor the day to fit your schedule, whether you’re looking for a quick half-day outing or a more leisurely exploration. Plus, with the option to dress up and participate in contests, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a playful, memorable experience that combines wine, scenery, and a touch of fun.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes door-to-door pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, making travel between wineries comfortable and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically runs from 3 to 6 hours, depending on how long you choose to linger at each winery and the overall pace.

Are tasting fees included?
Most tasting fees are included in the price, except possibly for specialty wines like ice wine or rare selections.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but this tour is designed for adults. Service animals are permitted, but keep in mind the tasting component is for those of legal drinking age.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual attire is recommended, especially since dressing up is encouraged for added fun. Check the weather forecast and bring layers if needed.

In sum, the Kelowna South Slopes Wine Tour offers a carefully curated, authentic look at one of Canada’s premier wine regions. With stunning scenery, knowledgeable hosts, and the chance to taste some of the best wines the Okanagan has to offer, it’s a day worth planning if you’re in Kelowna and want a memorable, flavorful experience.