Wine lovers know there’s something special about the Okanagan Valley. Between the lake views, and the vineyards it’s a region built for slowing down and enjoying life. If you’re looking for a wine route that combines all of these things, the Scenic Sip Wine Trail in Lake Country is one of the best places to start.

Just a short drive from Kelowna, this trail winds through rolling hills and orchards with views of Okanagan Lake around every corner. It’s home to a collection of boutique wineries, each with its own story and style.

Wineries on the Scenic Sip Wine Trail

50th Parallel Estate

This striking winery sits on 61 acres above the lake and has become one of the stars of the trail. Known especially for Pinot Noir, 50th Parallel also produces Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Their Block One restaurant is amazing, with a menu built around local ingredients that pair seamlessly with the wines. The modern architecture and expansive views make it a must-visit stop.

Gray Monk Estate Winery

One of the Okanagan’s most established names, Gray Monk has been producing wine since the 1970s. They were the first to plant Pinot Gris in Canada, and it remains a signature wine today. The tasting room and patio overlook Okanagan Lake, and the variety of wines on offer makes it a great stop for groups with different tastes.

Arrowleaf Cellars

Arrowleaf blends modern design with a comfortable, welcoming vibe. The wines are fresh and approachable, with standouts like Bacchus and Pinot Gris. The real draw, though, might be their picnic area. It’s one of the most popular places on the trail to grab a snack, open a bottle, and spend a couple of hours enjoying the lake view.

Ancient Hill Estate Winery

European-inspired architecture sets Ancient Hill apart. With its cobblestone courtyard and rustic design, it feels like stepping into a different place altogether. The wines are made in small lots and include reds like Baco Noir and Merlot. It’s a smaller, quieter stop on the trail that delivers a lot of charm.

Ex Nihilo Vineyards

Ex Nihilo combines wine with creativity. From the art on display to the food and wine pairings, there’s always something new to enjoy. Their Riesling and Merlot are popular choices, and the atmosphere is slightly more contemporary than some of the other stops on the trail.

Intrigue Wines

Intrigue is a smaller winery with a lighthearted, approachable feel. Riesling is a specialty here, along with sparkling wines that show off the cool-climate fruit. It’s the kind of place where new wine drinkers feel comfortable, but there’s still plenty for experienced tasters to appreciate.

Blind Tiger is fully organic, and that commitment to sustainability sets it apart. The vineyard grows Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling, and the wines reflect a pure expression of the fruit. In summer, the patio often hosts live music, turning it into a lively and fun place to stop for a tasting.

Tips for Making the Most of the Scenic Sip

Don’t rush: Two or three wineries in a day is the sweet spot. It gives you time to enjoy the tasting, the views, and maybe even a meal without feeling pressed for time.
Pair with food: Several wineries offer dining options, and many allow you to bring a picnic. Wine and local cheeses or charcuterie are a perfect match.
Consider a guided wine tour: Leaving the driving to someone else means you can fully enjoy each stop. Companies like Vivid Tours specialize in Scenic Sip itineraries, so all you need to do is relax and sip.
Think about timing: Summer and early fall are busiest. If you’d like a quieter experience, spring and late fall can be just as enjoyable, with fewer crowds.

Why the Scenic Sip Wine Trail Stands Out

Unmatched scenery: Vineyards framed by Okanagan Lake at almost every stop.
Diverse tasting experiences: From pioneers like Gray Monk to smaller, boutique operations like Intrigue.
Relaxed atmosphere: The wineries feel approachable and welcoming, whether it’s your first tasting or your fiftieth.
Cool-climate wines: The growing conditions in Lake Country create wines that are bright, fresh, and full of character.

Which wine tour company provides the best Lake Country Wine Tour?

Vivid Tours provides the best wine tour experiences in Lake Country for public or private groups on both half day and full day tours. Guests can explore the award winning wines of this region just north of Kelowna, as well as explore the adjacent vineyards, barrel rooms and connect with staff. Vivid Tours dedicates a fleet of 12 vans specifically for the Lake Country tour along the Scenic Sip wine trail offering flexible, high quality and engaging experiences.

Final Sip

The Scenic Sip wine trail offers one of the most enjoyable ways to explore Lake Country. With a mix of established names and hidden gems, all set against the backdrop of Okanagan Lake, it’s a route that’s as rewarding for newcomers as it is for seasoned wine lovers.

If you’d like to explore without the planning or driving, booking a Vivid wine tour makes the day simple and stress-free. You’ll get to visit a variety of wineries, taste some of the region’s best wines, and enjoy the scenery that makes this corner of the Okanagan so special.