4 Hidden Gems In East Kelowna – Wineries, Distilleries and Cideries
Kelowna is a treasure trove of amazing options to grab a drink. From world-class wineries, cideries, and distilleries in the area, no matter what style of drink you’re into, you’re sure to find tons of spectacular options to choose from.
One of the most popular regions where you can find wineries, cideries, and distilleries is East Kelowna. Known for its vineyards and orchards, this region is a spectacular place to sightsee in a relaxed countryside setting, while also enjoying some of the amazing products that come from local farms.
With an area full of locally crafted drinks and unique tasting experiences, we’re here to shine a light on 4 hidden gems in East Kelowna, from wineries to distilleries and cideries. So without further ado, here are our top picks.
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Luckhurst Farm & Distillery
Luckhurst Farm & Distillery is the epitome of the “Kelowna Vibe”. Starting off our list of 4 hidden gems in East Kelowna, you’ll exit off the road into a distillery that’s tucked into the forest and surrounded by vintage farm decor. The animals alone make this place worth visiting. With horses, donkeys, and goats, you don’t want to miss asking the staff about a guided tour before or after your tasting.
Luckhurst Farm & Distillery is a family-owned and operated establishment. When you visit, it’s common to meet the owners as they are often working during business hours or around the property, with their home located right next door to the tasting room.
Luckhurst is definitely a sight to see. Known for hosting different private events including weddings, the wood architecture, vintage decor, hidden garden, and picnic tables all come together to make it a dream venue.
As for drink selection, for a small-batch distillery, they sure have a lot to choose from. From cucumber vodka to their flagship gin and traditional and pink limoncellos, you’re sure to want to book a tasting so you can try them all before picking which favourite bottle you want to take home.
Overall, from the farm vibes and rustic decor to the animals and modern barn feel of this property, you’ll want to add this to your next East Kelowna outing. Just make sure you leave extra time to sit back, relax, and tour the property.
Hidden Vines Family Estate Winery
Nothing says hidden gem quite like a winery that has it right in the name, Hidden Vines Family Estate Winery. This spot is tucked into East Kelowna and surrounded by local farms, orchards, and vineyards.
This winery is charming, quaint, and perfect for those looking for a smaller, laid-back experience tucked into the countryside. When you arrive, you’ll notice its modern farm-style building for indoor tastings, where you can check in before exploring the property.
They also have one of the most gorgeous low-key patios in Kelowna, with a stunning natural wood pergola, rustic decor, and tables overlooking the vineyards.
If you’re lucky, you’ll meet their farm dogs who love to hang around the property and say hi to guests. Their friendly Welsh Springer Spaniel loves wandering around, whether that’s helping with farm duties or getting a belly rub from visitors.
They also have chickens that spend their days roaming the vineyard and keeping the team company while they work. In return, they provide some pretty amazing farm-fresh eggs that are available for sale. That means you can enjoy a cozy wine tasting and pick up some groceries in one stop. We’d consider that a win-win.
In terms of wine styles, you’re sure not to be disappointed. This small, family-run winery puts extra care into delivering some delicious wines, and it shows throughout their portfolio. Hidden Vines Family Estate Winery carries various styles, including Riesling, Viognier, Chardonnay, Rosé, Merlot, as well as white and red blends.
Overall, it’s easy to see why Hidden Vines makes the list of 4 hidden gems in East Kelowna
SpearHead Winery
A hidden gem winery in East Kelowna that has won numerous awards, including Winery of the Year in 2024, is SpearHead Winery.
Tucked into the vineyards, driving up to this winery you’ll notice its quaint and charming yellow building, which hosts indoor tastings, as well as their gorgeous patio.
Their outdoor patio space may be one of our favourites in East Kelowna, offering beautiful views overlooking Kelowna and the vineyards. They also have great shaded seating areas under their pergola and umbrellas that are perfect for enjoying a wine tasting.
Located just minutes from downtown Kelowna, their focus is on crafting premium, small-lot wines from grapes grown on their estate vineyard and carefully selected vineyards throughout the Okanagan Valley. During peak summer months, they also offer small bites, which are perfect to enjoy on their patio or lawn areas.
They also host amazing events throughout the year, including Shakespeare in the Vineyard, Pinot parties, and member-exclusive events.
If you decide to visit this property, you can’t miss tasting their award-winning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and aromatic white wines.
Overall, it’s easy to see why Spearhead makes our list of 4 hidden gems in East Kelowna. If you’re looking for a more quaint, relaxed, and intimate winery experience paired with award-winning BC wines, you’ve found the right place.
The View Winery & Vineyard & Wards Cider
Last and certainly not least on our list of 4 hidden gems in East Kelowna, we have a spot tucked into the vineyards and orchards of East Kelowna. The View Winery & Vineyard and Wards Cider offer a winery and cidery experience wrapped into one awesome stop.
The View is hard to beat throughout the seasons, but especially in spring and summer. In spring, you’re surrounded by gorgeous cherry and apple blossoms, which offer the perfect backdrop for photos during your wine and cider tasting.
In the summer months, their patio is tucked into the orchards, giving you natural shade as you sit under the trees and escape the hot Okanagan sun.
This is one of our favourite wineries and cideries to enjoy a tasting in the summer. From the picnic table setting right in the middle of the orchards to the stunning views and relaxing drive past neighbouring farms, it all adds up to the perfect summer experience in Kelowna.
Cider-wise, you can expect a great portfolio ranging from original cider to ginger, peach, rosé, and other unique options.
For their wine portfolio, you can expect a great variety including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Syrah, as well as white and red blends.
Overall, this spot is a great hidden gem tucked into the farmlands of East Kelowna. If you’re looking for a beautiful scenic patio, natural orchard shade, and a winery and cidery experience wrapped into one stop, this is one you don’t want to miss.
Plan the Best Tour of Hidden Gems in East Kelowna
Looking to plan a tour of the 4 hidden gems in East Kelowna? Vivid Tours helps make any tasting experience unforgettable. And if you’re wondering how much is a wine tour in Kelowna? Kelowna wine tours hosted by Vivid Tours range from $139 / person to $159 / person for public experiences. Private Kelowna wine tours range from $299 – $399 / person which include exclusive and elevated offerings.
The most popular value priced wine tours in the city are the half-day options hosted by Vivid Tours in West Kelowna, Lake Country or East Kelowna. These tours include pick-up / drop off at your accommodation, your tour guide and tastings at 4 iconic Kelowna wineries.
We hope you enjoyed getting to know this list of 4 hidden gems in East Kelowna and hope to see you on your next wine country adventure!
