Naramata Full Day Lunch Wine Tour- Incl. Tasting Fees & Gratuity!

Exploring the Naramata Bench Wine Trail: A Balanced Look at the Full Day Wine Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sipping award-winning wines along a beautiful lakeside backdrop, the Naramata Full Day Lunch Wine Tour offers an inviting way to indulge in Canada’s renowned Okanagan Valley. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, a detailed look at what it offers suggests an experience that combines stunning scenery, expertly curated winery visits, and friendly guides—all at a reasonable price point.

What we particularly love about this tour is the careful balance of education and relaxation. The guided visits to five diverse wineries promise a range of tasting experiences, from family-run vineyards to boutique operations. Plus, the scenic backdrop of Okanagan Lake provides a consistently breathtaking setting that elevates the entire day. Another highlight is the fully inclusive approach, with tasting fees, bottled water, and gratuity covered—meaning fewer surprises and more time for enjoying the wines.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite packed—visiting multiple wineries in six hours. For some, that might feel rushed, especially if you want to linger longer at each spot or enjoy a more leisurely pace. Lunch isn’t included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive taste of the Naramata Bench without the hassle of arranging transportation themselves, and who appreciate a guided, social experience.

Who would enjoy this tour? It’s perfect for first-time visitors to the Okanagan, groups celebrating special occasions like bachelorette parties, or wine lovers eager to explore a variety of wineries with knowledgeable guides. If you’re after a relaxed yet structured day with ample opportunities to taste and learn, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Tasting fees and gratuity are included, so you can focus on the experience without extra surprises.
• Diverse Wineries: Visits include a mix of family-owned, boutique, and well-established wineries, offering a broad taste of local craftsmanship.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning views of Okanagan Lake and the rolling vineyards that make this region famous.
• Guided and Social: Expert guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, help keep the day fun and informative.
• Flexible Dining: A scenic vineyard lunch is part of the plan, though the cost isn’t included, giving you a chance to choose a meal that suits your taste and budget.
• Value for Money: At around $145 per person, many reviews report excellent value—especially considering the number of tastings and tour inclusions.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at 10:30 a.m., with convenient door-to-door pickup in the Penticton area, making logistics simple and stress-free. Over the next six hours, you will visit 11 stops—including eight winery tastings and two vineyard restaurants—each offering unique stories, wines, and views.

First Stop: MOCOJO Winery

Starting at MOCOJO, you’ll likely notice their rapid growth since opening in 2014. This family-run operation has gained recognition for their Gewurztraminer and Viognier, with newer additions like Malbec and Marechal Foch. The tasting experience here is intimate, with a 30-minute visit that sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Moraine Winery

Perched above Okanagan Lake in a shelf-like location, Moraine is distinguished by its dramatic views. Its family-owned roots and the unique setting make for a memorable photo opportunity and a chance to taste wines crafted from grapes grown in this stunning environment.

Three Sisters Winery

A true family venture, Three Sisters showcases the warmth and charm of a family-run vineyard. Their story of years in the business and a focus on quality shines through in their wines. Guests often comment on the personal touch here, with a 30-minute tasting that feels more like visiting friends than a commercial stop.

Lang Vineyards

Celebrating over three decades of winemaking, Lang Vineyards is one of the oldest on the bench. Their long-standing tradition offers a sense of stability and craftsmanship, with a wide selection of wines to sample in about half an hour.

Ruby Blues Winery

This boutique operation is known for its vibrant, tasty wines from grapes mainly sourced from their own vineyards. The emphasis here on small-batch production makes each tasting feel special, often accompanied by engaging stories from the staff.

Deep Roots Winery

A family-run operation perched on clay cliffs, Deep Roots offers a look into generations of farming and winemaking. Their over-century-old farming roots lend authenticity to their wines, and the 30-minute visit yields a variety of tasting options.

Serendipity Winery

Founded by a culinary enthusiast inspired by an orchard discovery, Serendipity combines wine and orchard charm. Visitors often appreciate the personal stories and the relaxed atmosphere, making it more than just a typical tasting.

Wesbert Winery

A South African family’s venture, Wesbert is notable for its warm hospitality and diverse grape offerings. Launched in 2019, it’s relatively new but already well-loved for its friendly staff and quality wines.

Lake Breeze Winery and Patio Restaurant

Here, wind and water come together in a scenic setting. The winery itself has a reputation for top-tier wines, while the adjacent patio offers a chance for a relaxed lunch (not included in the tour fee). Many reviewers highlight their excellent farm-to-table meals and stunning lake views.

Naramata Inn and Poplar Grove Winery

Both of these spots focus on exceptional dining experiences paired with local wines. While lunch isn’t included in the tour, many guests choose to enjoy a meal here, making it an excellent opportunity to savor the region’s farm-fresh ingredients.

What to Expect from the Guided Experience

Throughout the day, guides like Herb, Gord, and James frequently receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep the atmosphere lively. Several reviewers mention their guides’ engaging storytelling and attentiveness, which can elevate the whole trip from a simple tasting to a memorable experience.

The transport itself is comfortable, air-conditioned, and designed to make your journey easy and stress-free. With a maximum group size of 14, the tour maintains an intimate feel, allowing for plenty of interaction with guides and fellow wine lovers.

Tasting Experience

Guests generally report a generous sampling at each winery—up to 24 wines overall—giving you a solid sense of regional variety. The tasting fees are included, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs piling up. Bottled water is always available, which is a thoughtful touch after sampling wines.

Lunch and Extra Costs

While the tour is a great value, lunch is not included in the ticket price and is payable directly at the winery restaurant. Many guests opt for a scenic vineyard meal, adding a delicious, relaxing break amidst their tasting adventures.

Reviews and Authentic Perspectives

The tour consistently earns a perfect 5-star rating from 22 reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and excellent wine. Comments like “our guide was amazing with lots of fun information” and “every stop was unforgettable” highlight how guides go beyond just pouring wine—they share stories, history, and local insights that deepen the experience.

Several reviewers emphasize the diversity of wineries visited, from family-run vineyards to boutique operations, which keeps the day interesting. The scenic views of Okanagan Lake and the rolling vineyards are often described as “breathtaking,” with many attendees noting that the experience exceeded their expectations.

The value for money also gets high marks, especially considering the inclusion of tasting fees and gratuities. The overall organization, from booking to the pickup/drop-off process, is described as smooth and professional, making this a stress-free way to enjoy wine country.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: About 6 hours, starting at 10:30 a.m.
Price: Around $145 per person, with tasting fees and gratuity included—good value considering the number of wineries visited.
Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle, door-to-door pickup in Penticton.
Group Size: Max 14 travelers, fostering a friendly and intimate environment.
Lunch: Not included but available at select wineries; budget accordingly.
Booking: Book 31 days in advance on average—popular tours tend to fill quickly.
Additional notes: Confirmations are received within 48 hours, and service animals are allowed.

Final Thoughts

This Naramata Full Day Lunch Wine Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience the best of the Okanagan’s wine scene. With a knowledgeable guide, a variety of wineries, spectacular views, and all the tasting fees covered, it provides excellent value for those wanting a guided, hassle-free day. Be prepared for a busy but rewarding itinerary that balances education, scenery, and conviviality.

If you’re looking to explore multiple wineries comfortably, appreciate scenic landscapes, and enjoy a guided experience that feels personal rather than commercial, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suitable for newcomers to the region, wine enthusiasts eager to discover local favorites, or groups celebrating a special occasion.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included in the ticket price. You will pay directly at the winery restaurant, and many guests enjoy a scenic vineyard meal during their day.

What does the tour price cover?
The $144.76 per person covers tasting fees, bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, a wine concierge, door-to-door pickup and drop-off in Penticton, and gratuity for your guide.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:30 a.m., with visits to multiple wineries and lunch stops.

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit 5 wineries, with the possibility of additional stops at vineyard restaurants for lunch or extra tastings.

Are the wineries different in style?
Yes, the tour includes a mix of family-owned, boutique, and established wineries, offering a broad taste of regional winemaking.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 14 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Can I bring wine home?
Wine purchases are not included in the tour fee. You are free to buy bottles at the wineries, but you will need to handle transportation and any additional costs yourself.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it accessible for those new to wine tasting.

What if I want to customize my experience?
This tour is structured and pre-arranged, so customization isn’t available. However, the guide’s knowledge and the diverse stops mean you’ll get a rundown of the region.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Booking typically requires planning around 31 days in advance, as it’s popular and often fills up quickly.

Embark on this guided journey through one of Canada’s most beautiful wine regions, and enjoy a day full of great wines, stunning views, and friendly local stories.