Naramata Private Wine Tour – Full Day

Planning a trip to the Okanagan Valley and want to indulge in some of Canada’s best wines? The Naramata Private Wine Tour offers an immersive, relaxed day exploring five standout wineries. Perfect for wine lovers, couples, or groups seeking a personalized experience, this tour combines scenic views with expert-guided tastings — all without the worry of driving afterward.

What we love about this experience is the personalized touch: it’s a private tour, so your group’s interests shape the day. Plus, all tasting fees are included, which makes budgeting easier. On the flip side, if you’re outside the usual pickup zones, there’s a surcharge to consider. Overall, it’s ideal for those craving a mix of quality wines, stunning scenery, and expert insights in a comfortable, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience tailored to your preferences and group size
• All tasting fees at five wineries are included, offering excellent value
• Scenic views of the Okanagan Lake and vineyards enhance the experience
• Flexible itinerary options to follow the guide’s plan or choose your own wineries
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and adjust the experience to your interests
• Transportation zone is limited, with additional charges outside the main areas

An Overview of the Experience

The Naramata Private Wine Tour is designed for those who want flexibility, comfort, and a focus on quality. At about five hours long, it’s a manageable day that covers five top wineries, each offering unique atmospheres and wines. It’s priced at roughly $288 per person, which, considering all tasting fees are included, makes it a good deal for a full day of wine exploration. Plus, the tour is booked about two months in advance on average, so planning ahead is wise.

This tour is operated by Sagebrush Tours, known for their knowledgeable guides and personalized service. Pickup is offered in the Penticton and Summerland areas, making it accessible for travelers staying in or near these towns. If you’re coming from Kelowna or West Kelowna, transportation is available at an extra cost.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Poplar Grove Winery

Your first stop kicks off with a guided tasting of five signature wines. Poplar Grove is well-regarded for its well-rounded range, and the tour includes an admission ticket. Expect a friendly, informative session where the guide explains the nuances of each wine, from robust reds to crisp whites. The setting here is gorgeous, with the vineyards and lake views providing an excellent backdrop for your tasting. Reviewers have praised the guide’s knowledge and the size of the tasting, noting that “there was good time to enjoy and discuss each wine.”

Stop 2: Hillside Winery

Next, you’ll visit Hillside Winery for a portfolio tasting. Here, the focus is on the latest releases, giving you a peek into what’s trending. The guided tasting is intimate, lasting around 45 minutes, and offers insight into the winemaking process. Many guests appreciate the ability to learn about the nuances of different varietals and production techniques directly from the experts. One reviewer mentioned that the experience was not only informative but also tailored to their interests.

Stop 3: Deep Roots Winery

At Deep Roots, the experience turns more personal with a private wine tasting. This winery emphasizes small-scale, quality-focused production, which means you’ll sample wines with a lot of character. It’s clear that the emphasis here is on craftsmanship, and the guide’s explanations help bring each vintage to life. The 45-minute tasting is often described as relaxed and engaging, ideal for those who want to truly savor each sip.

Stop 4: Nichol Winery and Vineyard

Nichol is one of the original wineries on the Bench, and its small-scale, high-quality approach makes it stand out. You’ll spend about 10 minutes here, sampling wines crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The reviews point out that the winery’s focus on grape quality and élevage makes their wines particularly memorable. Expect a more intimate, boutique experience with limited production wines.

Stop 5: Laughing Stock Vineyards

The final stop is Laughing Stock, a boutique winery that offers a premium seated tasting. Here, you’ll access limited production wines, some only available on-site. The seated environment allows for a more relaxed, in-depth tasting experience, often highlighted by reviewers as a highlight. They also appreciate that this stop provides a chance to sample some of the finest wines in a comfortable setting. It’s a great way to end the day, with the guide helping you appreciate each wine’s story.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour’s inclusive offerings are impressive: tasting fees at all five wineries are covered, and bottled water is provided, ensuring you stay hydrated during the day. For those who love to indulge, optional tasting upgrades are available for an extra fee.

However, lunch is not included, though the tour organizers assist with reservations if you want a sit-down meal. Keep this in mind if you prefer a leisurely lunch or want to pace your day differently.

Transportation is straightforward within the designated zone—Penticton and Summerland—but outside of these areas, there’s an added surcharge. This makes planning a little more complicated if you’re staying in Kelowna or other parts of the valley. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be sharing your day with strangers, which many guests find adds to the relaxed, personalized vibe.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who appreciate expert-guided wine tastings in a private setting** will find this tour a real treat. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about the wines of the Naramata Bench, as well as those who want a flexible, intimate experience that can be tailored to their interests. If you value scenic views, good company, and the chance to sample some of Canada’s best wines without the hassle of driving, this tour checks all the boxes.

The reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially praising guides like Alan for their knowledge and friendliness. Guests also appreciate the excellent wine selections and the relaxed, unhurried pace. If you’re looking for a balance of education, scenery, and high-quality wines, this private tour offers a compelling way to enjoy the region.

The Sum Up

The Naramata Private Wine Tour is a well-conceived experience that offers a lot for the price. It’s particularly suited for those who want an intimate, educational, and scenic wine adventure without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. The inclusion of tasting fees, the flexibility to customize your stops, and the knowledgeable guides all contribute to a memorable day.

For couples celebrating, friends wanting a fun day out, or wine aficionados eager to deepen their understanding, this tour delivers a rewarding taste of the Okanagan’s best. Just remember to plan ahead if you’re outside the main pickup zones, and consider pairing it with a nice lunch to make the most of your visit.

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized way to explore the vineyard-rich landscape of Naramata, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate. It offers a more personalized and relaxed experience compared to larger group tours.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each winery without feeling rushed.

Are tasting fees included?
Yes, all tasting fees at the five wineries are included in the price, which makes budgeting easier and means no surprise costs at each stop.

Can I choose which wineries to visit?
While the tour follows a suggested itinerary, you have the option to select your own wineries if you prefer, offering customization.

What’s the transportation situation?
Pickup is available in Penticton and Summerland, but if you’re staying outside these zones, an additional surcharge applies. The tour is private, so transportation is tailored to your needs.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but the tour team can help you reserve a sit-down meal at one of the wineries or nearby restaurants.

This carefully curated private tour makes a wonderful introduction to Naramata’s wines, scenery, and hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting to explore wine, you’ll find this experience both enjoyable and educational.