In light of recent Canadian tariffs and growing calls to support local over American imports, there’s never been a better time to explore the rich, diverse flavors crafted right here in British Columbia’s Okanagan region. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a craft beer enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates quality local products, the Okanagan offers an abundance of exceptional wineries, breweries, and distilleries that deserve our attention and support.
Wineries to Savour
- Gray Monk Estate Winery – One of the Okanagan’s oldest family-owned wineries, Gray Monk is known for its elegant Pinot Gris and breathtaking views.
- Ex Nihilo Vineyards – Named after the Latin phrase “out of nothing,” Ex Nihilo crafts bold, expressive wines with a focus on artistry and sustainability.
- Ancient Hill Estate Winery – Specializing in European-style wines, Ancient Hill offers boutique vintages with an old-world charm.
- The View Winery – Located in a historic apple packing house, The View produces aromatic white wines and crisp ciders that celebrate Okanagan’s agricultural heritage.
- Summerhill Pyramid Winery – Renowned for its organic and biodynamic wines, Summerhill’s pyramid cellar adds a unique energy to their vibrant varietals.
- CedarCreek Estate Winery – With a commitment to organic farming, CedarCreek produces award-winning wines that reflect the region’s terroir.
- Rollingdale Winery – A small, family-owned organic winery known for handcrafted, unfiltered wines with minimal intervention.
- Teehouse Wine Co. – A boutique winery offering a cozy tasting experience with small-lot wines that highlight local character.
- Little Straw Vineyards – Celebrated for their distinctive La Petite Paille label, they focus on small-batch wines with rich, fruit-forward profiles.
- Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery – Rooted in volcanic soils, Mt. Boucherie crafts bold reds and refreshing whites that tell the story of the land.
- The Hatch – Known for its funky, artistic vibe and eclectic wine lineup, The Hatch is as much about personality as it is about quality.
- Quails’ Gate Winery – A pioneer in the Okanagan wine scene, Quails’ Gate is famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, paired with stunning lake views.
- Mission Hill Family Estate – Iconic and architecturally breathtaking, Mission Hill offers world-class wines with a focus on elegance and sustainability.
- Haywire Wines – As a leader in natural winemaking, Haywire produces minimal-intervention wines with a fresh, authentic Okanagan taste.
- Moraine Estate Winery – A family-owned gem overlooking Okanagan Lake, Moraine crafts expressive, award-winning wines with passion.
- Wild Goose Vineyards – One of BC’s original farm wineries, Wild Goose is known for vibrant whites and robust reds that reflect decades of expertise.
- Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery – Dedicated to creating noble wines, their handcrafted vintages are both elegant and expressive.
- Nighthawk Vineyards – A hidden gem offering handcrafted wines with an intimate, rustic tasting experience.
- Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate – A household name with a focus on consistency and quality, delivering approachable wines for every occasion.
Breweries & Distilleries to Discover
- Tumbleweed Spirits – Crafting small-batch spirits with a Wild West flair, Tumbleweed offers bold flavors with a local twist.
- Backroads Brewing Co. – A laid-back brewery specializing in sessionable, well-balanced beers perfect for any adventure.
- Bordertown Vineyards & Estate Winery – Straddling the line between winemaking and brewing, they offer both bold wines and unique beer-inspired creations.
- Rustic Roots Winery – Known for their fruit wines and ciders, Rustic Roots celebrates the Okanagan’s rich agricultural diversity.
- Firehall Brewery – Located in an old firehall, they craft ‘extinguishingly’ good beers with bold flavors and community spirit.
- Dubh Glas Distillery – A craft distillery producing premium gins and spirits with a focus on pure, local ingredients.
- District Wine Village – A hub for small producers, District Wine offers a tasting adventure with a variety of local wines and craft beers.
- Barley Mill Brew Pub – A beloved local spot known for hearty pub fare and handcrafted beers brewed on-site.
- Tin Whistle Brewing Co. – As Penticton’s oldest craft brewery, Tin Whistle focuses on eco-friendly brewing and unique, flavorful beers.
- Okanagan Fest of Ale Society – Not a brewery but a must-visit event celebrating craft beer with tastings from dozens of local producers.
- Slackwater Brewing – Embracing the Okanagan lifestyle, Slackwater offers bright, refreshing brews perfect for patio days.
- Neighbourhood Brewing – A community-focused brewery crafting bold, inventive beers with a fun, welcoming vibe.
- Yellow Dog Brewing – Originally from Port Moody, their Okanagan outpost delivers hoppy, award-winning brews loved across BC.
- Cannery Brewing – Known for small-batch creativity, Cannery’s beers range from classic styles to bold experimental brews.
- Highway 97 Brewing Co. – Named after the iconic BC highway, their brews are perfect companions for road trips and adventures.
- Detonate Brewing – Explosively flavorful craft beers that push the boundaries with unique, bold styles.
- Barn Owl Brewing – Set in a charming barn, they serve up delicious, small-batch beers with rustic character.
- Lakesider Brewing Co. – Inspired by lake life, Lakesider’s crisp, refreshing beers are perfect for warm, sunny days.
- Railside Brewing – A hidden gem offering handcrafted brews with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Why Supporting Local Matters
Choosing Okanagan-made wines, beers, and spirits is about sustaining local jobs, protecting our environment through reduced transportation emissions, and nurturing the unique character of our communities. Every bottle or pint you purchase helps local farmers, winemakers, brewers, and artisans thrive, ensuring that the Okanagan remains a centre for craft culture.
So, next time you’re stocking up, raise a glass to local. Discover the stories, passion, and flavours that make the Okanagan a world-class destination for wine and craft beverages.
Cheers to supporting homegrown and local businesses!