Touring Wine Country

touring-okanagan-wine-country

When visiting wine country be sure to ask for a map at the winery as most have scouted out a regional trail to their neighbours. See if they have a passport as often prizes can be won with a wine route full of stamps. Associations also host one or two signature tasting and dining events each year not to be missed.

Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country

Pig out! April 30, Covert Farms
The end of May marks the signature event for these 29 southern wineries; however the Half Corked Marathon is so popular, tickets are now offered by a lottery system. Better luck snatching a ticket to Pig Out! which heralds the coming of the summer season with a vineyard pig roast, bringing together chefs from eight local restaurants. www.oliverosoyoos.com

Okanagan Falls Wineries Association

Party in the Park: July 8, Kenyon Park, Okanagan Falls
Celebrate summer from the shores of Skaha Lake as all 14 premier wineries of Okanagan Falls pour a selection of their wines followed by a BBQ buffet dinner prepared by Chef Jordan Ash of Flambé Catering. Tickets at www.ofwa.ca

Naramata Bench Winery Association

Tailgate Party: September
Each fall, these 24 award-winning wineries celebrate the coming of harvest with delicious cuisine from local chefs, and live music. Located near Penticton in the South Okanagan, the wineries are situated above sweeping sand cliffs that rise from Okanagan Lake. Maps at www.naramatabench.com

Summerland’s Bottleneck Drive

June 11 & 12
Join the 15 wineries of Summerland for two special days of touring, June 11 and 12. Stop in for wine tasting, live music and special promotions. Pick up your weekend passport to win a prize valued at over $500. Details at www.bottleneckdrive.com

Lake Country Scenic Sip

The Taste Lake Country (TLC) signature spring event has already sold out, but set a reminder for spring 2017. The six wineries offer a multicultural food and wine experience. Watch for upcoming events at www.scenicsip.ca

Fab Five

These five wineries in southeast Kelowna come together for both spring and fall events. Find the route map and details at www.kelownafabfive.ca

Lakeshore Wine Route

Unleashed: April 30, Kelowna

Kelowna wineries Cedar Creek, St. Huburtus, Summerhill and Tantalus, and the SPCA are throwing a party. Bring your pooch for treats and fun activities while you enjoy canapé-paired wine tastings at each winery. Stamp your “Pawsport” along the way for entry to the grand prize draw. Suggested donation of $20 for entry. Wine purchases support BCSPCA. www.lakeshorewineries.ca

Kamloops Wine Trail

The newest wine trail is anchored by the Thompson Rivers and the iconic hoodoo formations and rolling hills of sage near Kamloops. It’s a spectacular backdrop for your wine tasting experience. www.kamloopswinetrail.com