Superior quality, architectural beauty

Visit Kelowna wineries for an unforgettable experience

An energetic city in the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is renowned for its internationally-recognized wineries. When RVing in the area, take advantage of your stay in this delightful area and stop in at one of the charming vineyards for a tour and taste.

Getting back to nature

Summerhill Pyramid Winery has a dynamic and earth-friendly approach to winemaking. This devoted company produces certified organic wines within a unique pyramid structure. In addition to being visually enticing, the pyramid is designed in such a way that it enhances the winemaking process, and subsequently, the flavour and quality of the product.

“Our first vintage was 1991,” said Ezra Cipes, general manager at Summerhill. “We specialize in sparkling wine. The climate and terroir is just perfect for creating really flavourful, traditional-method sparkling wines. Also our aromatic whites such as Ehrenfelser, and our Pinot Noir, are very popular.”

Sharing the tradition

Visitors can come to Summerhill for a tasting, and public tours are held at 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

“Our tours focus on entertaining and talking about three things: our organics program (we’re the largest certified organic winery and vineyard in Canada), the making of traditional method sparkling wine, and the tour also goes into our pyramid wine cellar,” said Cipes. “It ends, of course, with a tasting. We have incredible views and a great restaurant that serves local organic food.”

Summerhill Winery is in the process of applying for Demeter Biodynamic certification, an intensive credential that involves rigorous attention to soil content, planting cycles and several other aspects.

For more information, visit www.summerhill.bc.ca.

Winemaking technology

Another notable winery in Kelowna is Mission Hill Family Estate. This company boasts high-quality products and up-to-date winemaking equipment and technology.

“At Mission Hill Family Estate, we are passionate about wine and food,” said Lori Pike, director of public relations. “We invite you to join us on our outdoor dining terrace, overlooking lush vineyards, for seasonal fare handcrafted to complement our wines. Chosen as one of the top five restaurants in the world by Travel & Leisure magazine, the terrace is open for lunch and afternoon tapas from May to September.”

Founded in 1981, Mission Hill has made a name for itself in the Okanagan and beyond.

“The most popular Mission Hill Family Estate wine is Five Vineyards Pinot Grigio. It is one of the top selling wines in the province of B.C.,” said Pike.

Visitors to Mission Hill can enjoy wine tastings in the Winery Boutique. They can also book a tour of the grounds, where wine educators will guide them through dramatic architectural structures and an extensive underground barrel cellar. The tour also includes a theatre presentation that highlights the Okanagan Valley.

For more information or to make reservations, visit www.missionhillwinery.com.