Already distinguished for its broad range of experiences in wine touring, the Westside Wine Trail’s diversity deepens as more wineries join the fold. You’ll find some of the oldest and most established vineyards and wineries in the Okanagan Valley such as Mission Hill Estate Winery and Quails’ Gate Estate Winery. Plus there are new arrivals such as The Hatch, Ciao Bella Winery and Off the Grid Organic Winery with Grizzli Winery and Indigenous World Winery opening this May. There are quaint wineries and architectural masterpieces perched on rolling hills of vineyards, some with sweeping lake views while others have idyllic rural settings – all within a short drive from each other and Kelowna. Various wineries encourage you to pack a lunch and purchase a glass of wine onsite to enjoy in their picturesque picnic areas while others present fabulous restaurants for which you’ll want to reserve.
The diversity goes beyond the age, size and amenities to the wine varietals offered and the nuances within those vintages based on where the grapes are grown. Many of the wineries also own vineyards, or have cultivated relationships with farmers, in the south Okanagan, Naramata, on both sides of Okanagan Lake and in the Similkameen region. Touring the Westside Wine Trail gives people without multiple days to travel, an advantage to get a sense of the scope of what the Valley has to offer. It helps grow the industry, too, because once visitors have a taste, they’ll want to return for more and to extend their trip to explore other regions. To plan your tour, learn about events and more about the wineries, visit www.thewestsidewinetrail.com
~ Roslyne Buchanan