What are the top wineries to visit in Kelowna during the summer? We’re here to give you the inside scoop. Although there are no wrong answers, Kelowna is an absolutely gorgeous place for a wine tour, especially during the summer months.
We’ve wine toured all across Kelowna wine country, so we’re well versed in the wineries and are here to share a few of our favourite spots!
From gorgeous wine tasting patios, to lakeside wine tastings and mountain views, we’re ready to share not only our favourite winery spots for summer, but also what makes them such amazing options. We know everyone is different, and we’re lucky to have such a wide variety of wineries around Kelowna to choose from.
That’s why we’re breaking down what makes each of these wineries unique, and why they’re perfectly summer-coded. This is the locals’ insider scoop on some of the best wineries to add to your next summer wine tour around Kelowna.
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Ancient Hill Winery
Highlights: Dreamy European vibes, stunning gardens, gorgeous shaded patio for wine tasting, quieter and less foot traffic compared to larger wineries
Our first choice for a winery that’s perfect to visit during the summer is Ancient Hill Winery. This place is pure European vibes wrapped into a quaint and dreamy destination. Also considered a hidden gem winery in Kelowna, you won’t get the same level of busyness compared to some of the more highly visited wineries in the region.
Located just northeast of downtown Kelowna and close to the Kelowna International Airport, this spot offers vibes that will make you feel like you’ve landed in Italy, all within a 20-minute drive from downtown.
As you arrive at the property, you’ll notice the European-style winery building with its old wooden, cottage-inspired charm. The property also features gorgeous gardens that surround the winery and are open for guests to explore. You’ll often spot swallowtail butterflies and beautiful birds flying around, making the whole experience feel straight out of a fairytale.
Inside, the tasting room has a vintage, old-world feel that combines the charm of a cozy cottage and castle all in one space. They offer excellent B.C. wines and are especially known for their reds, including their Banco Noir, while also offering seasonal whites like Gewürztraminer.
And if you thought this place couldn’t get any better, stepping onto their back patio for a wine tasting reveals gorgeous pergolas that provide shade while overlooking the surrounding vineyards and mountain views. Thoughtful touches throughout the patio, including antique chandeliers and vines draping overhead, make this one of the dreamiest winery patios to visit during the summer.
Although they don’t have a restaurant on site, guests are welcome to bring their own picnic, which honestly makes the experience feel even more relaxing and special.
Overall, Ancient Hill Winery easily earns a spot as one of the best wineries to visit in Kelowna during the summer.
Frind Estate Winery
Highlights: Beachfront winery, cabanas, restaurant and café on site, lively summer vibes
What says summer wine tour more than sipping wine at the only beachfront winery in North America?
Frind Estate Winery is the definition of a summer winery experience. We’re talking lake views, beachside cabanas, warm sunshine, and the ability to dip your toes in the water while sipping B.C. wine. Add in views of the surrounding mountains across Okanagan Lake, and this place truly feels like peak summer in the Okanagan.
Located in West Kelowna, this winery offers a wide variety of wines, especially selections that are perfect for summer. From their Pinot Noir Brut to their Viognier, famously nicknamed “Summer in a Glass,” plus rosés, reds, sparkling wines, and dessert wines, there’s something for every type of wine lover here.
This winery has a luxury feel from the moment you arrive. From the sleek modern tasting room to the outdoor patio and beachfront setting, every part of the property feels elevated. Their iconic sculpture near the beach, paired with the modern wooden architecture, gives the entire winery a polished, upscale atmosphere.
Enjoy a pizza, coffee, or wine right by the beach while taking in the lake breeze. If you’re looking for a lively winery to enjoy with friends and family during the summer, Frind Estate Winery is one of the best wineries near Kelowna to add to your wine tour list.
So if you’re dreaming of sipping a cool glass of B.C. wine on a gorgeous patio with beach access, snacks, and stunning views, Frind Estate Winery is the perfect summer wine tour stop.
Arrowleaf Cellars
Highlights: Picnic area, stunning lake views, quieter and relaxed pace
Located about 30 minutes from downtown Kelowna in beautiful Lake Country, Arrowleaf Cellars is one of the most scenic wineries to visit during the summer.
Located along the Scenic Sip Wine Trail, it becomes pretty obvious where the route gets its name. Even the drive there offers incredible Okanagan scenery you won’t want to miss.
With gorgeous lake views, shaded picnic areas, and a relaxed atmosphere, Arrowleaf Cellars offers a peaceful place to soak up the summer weather while still staying cool in the shade.
Their outdoor picnic area is especially beautiful. The upper section is surrounded by large walnut and cedar trees that provide tons of natural shade. Down below, you’ll find picnic tables overlooking vineyards, mountains, and Okanagan Lake.
What better way to enjoy a summer picnic than with wine and one of their snack boards featuring cheese and crackers? Whether you’re planning a date day or an outing with friends or family, this is one of the best winery picnic spots near Kelowna.
Arrowleaf Cellars also offers an incredible selection of B.C. wines for every palate. Their portfolio includes reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, along with refreshing whites like Riesling and Pinot Gris, plus beautiful rosés perfect for summer sipping.
Their tasting room itself is sleek and modern, letting in tons of natural light throughout the day. You can also enjoy their outdoor patio, which offers shaded seating and incredible views over the vineyards and lake.
Overall, Arrowleaf Cellars offers a quieter and more relaxing winery experience, making it one of the best wineries to visit near Kelowna during the summer.
Black Swift Vineyards
Highlights: Patio with lakeside and vineyard views, casual atmosphere, picture-perfect photo spots
Located in West Kelowna, Black Swift Vineyards offers an incredible atmosphere and is the perfect winery to visit during the summer.
If you’re looking for a more casual and relaxed wine tasting experience with seriously stunning views, this is the place for you.
Their tasting room is simple, rustic, and refined all at once. Even inside the winery, panoramic windows showcase the vineyards, mountains, and lake views surrounding the property.
Just outside those windows, you’ll find their picturesque patio, which offers one of the best backdrops for wine tasting in the Okanagan. It’s also one of the best photo spots, with vineyard rows stretching out toward the valley below.
Black Swift Vineyards is especially known for its bold and flavourful red wines. Red wine lovers will appreciate their wide selection, including Pinot Noir, Cabernet Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah. If you prefer white wine, their Chardonnay is a must-try.
Overall, this winery offers a laid-back atmosphere and incredible scenery, making it a top winery stop to visit during the summer around Kelowna.
Planning the Perfect Summer Winery Outing
There you have it, a list of some of our favourite wineries to visit in Kelowna during the summer.
Summer in the Okanagan offers incredible weather, beautiful vineyard scenery, and the perfect conditions for your next wine tour adventure. And if you’re looking to plan the perfect summer wine tour, we highly recommend booking with Vivid Tours.
Can we request specific wineries on our Kelowna wine tour?
Yes, Vivid Tours always attempts to ensure winery preferences are met. Guests can communicate winery wish lists when making a reservation, or can connect with our team to let us know winery priorities. We will always do our best to accommodate. However, due to several logistical factors, winery requests cannot be guaranteed.
