Along the sun-drenched shores of Lake Okanagan in British Columbia, the Naramata Bench is a verdant strip of land loved by wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This idyllic region, home to the renowned Naramata wineries, is a testament to the art of winemaking and the unparalleled beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or a curious traveler seeking new experiences, the Naramata Bench has you covered. Here you can enjoy a captivating journey through one of Canada’s most cherished wine regions near the popular city of Kelowna.
I spent the 90s living in Kelowna when the rich Okanagan wine region we know today was just blossoming and the land was covered in orchards rather than vineyards. It’s a very different place now, but I love it equally for different reasons. Back then I would not have appreciated the amazing array of wines to taste, the many lovely wineries and the beauty of the rolling hills covered in grape vines.
Today, I take every opportunity to visit the Okanagan. And Naramata Bench is one of my favorite spots because it’s not as big and busy as other areas. It feels like my own little secret.
A Taste of Naramata’s Terroir
The secret behind the Naramata wineries’ acclaimed vintages lies in the unique terroir of the region. The combination of warm days, cool nights, and mineral-rich soils provides the perfect conditions for grape cultivation. Varietals such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Riesling thrive here. Each expresses the distinct characteristics of the Naramata Bench.
As you meander through the winding roads that trace the lake’s edge, you’re greeted by the sight of vineyards stretching towards the horizon. Each offers a unique story and taste of the region. The wineries of Naramata are not just producers of wine; they are custodians of the land, dedicated to sustainable practices that honor their environment.
Embarking on a Culinary Adventure
But Naramata is more than just wine. It’s a full sensory experience. Many wineries pair their exquisite wines with culinary offerings that highlight local ingredients. The farm-to-table concept is embraced wholeheartedly here. Menus are designed to complement the wines and showcase the bounty of the region. From wine-tasting tours to dining al fresco among the vines, Naramata invites you to indulge in the flavors and stories of the land.
23 of the Best Naramata Wineries to Explore
Naramata Wineries Map
1. Laughing Stock Vineyards
As the name hints at, Laughing Stock Vineyards is serious winemaking with a lighthearted twist. The winery’s name, inspired by the owners’ jump from finance to winemaking, reflects their commitment to excellence without pretense. Best known for their “Portfolio” Bordeaux-style blend, visitors can expect a sophisticated tasting experience. Their focus is on premium wines that tell the story of the region’s terroir.
2. Poplar Grove Winery
Poplar Grove Winery is a family legacy. With breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake, it offers a serene backdrop for tasting their acclaimed wines, including Pinot Gris and Merlot. The winery is also home to The Restaurant at Poplar Grove. Here the farm-to-table menu complements their wines, ensuring a gastronomic journey in beautiful surroundings.
3. Hillside Winery & Bistro
Hillside Winery & Bistro prides itself on producing distinctive wines that express the unique Naramata Bench terroir. But they also offers an exceptional dining experience. Their multi-tiered bistro serves dishes crafted from local ingredients, perfectly paired with Hillside’s wines. With a focus on varietals like Gewürztraminer and Mosaic (a Bordeaux-style blend), Hillside creates wines that reflect both the land and the winemaker’s artistry.
4. Red Rooster Winery
At Red Rooster Winery, the art of winemaking meets creative flair in both their wines and their vibrant tasting room. Known for their fun atmosphere, guests can enjoy a range of wines while taking in the eclectic artwork and stunning lake views. Red Rooster’s approachable style extends to their portfolio. This includes a mix of whites, reds, and rosés, each crafted to showcase the varietal’s best characteristics.
5. Lake Breeze Vineyards
Named for the gentle breezes that drift across Okanagan Lake, Lake Breeze Vineyards is a place of beauty and quality wine. Their patio, overlooking the vineyards and lake, is an idyllic spot for enjoying a glass of their award-winning Pinot Blanc or a complex Meritage blend. Lake Breeze emphasizes small-lot winemaking, ensuring each bottle captures the essence of the Naramata Bench.
6. Tightrope Winery
Tightrope Winery embodies balance in every aspect, from vineyard practices to winemaking. Their focus on sustainable viticulture results in wines that are expressive of the region’s climate and soil. The winery produces acclaimed Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir. Each showcases the meticulous care and attention to detail that define Tightrope’s philosophy.
7. Bench 1775 Winery
With its panoramic views of Okanagan Lake, Bench 1775 is known for both its stunning location and its expressive wines. Visitors are drawn to the winery for its vibrant whites and structured reds. This includes the notable Chill, a unique and refreshing blend. Bench 1775’s welcoming tasting room and outdoor picnic area provide the perfect setting for a memorable wine country experience.
8. Therapy Vineyards
Therapy Vineyards offers an engaging twist on the traditional winery visit, with wine labels and names that playfully nod to psychological themes. Beyond the whimsy, their wines are serious contenders, showcasing depth and complexity across varietals. The winery’s guesthouse offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the vineyard life. This makes Therapy a destination for both the mind and the palate.
9. JoieFarm Winery
Inspired by the Alsace region of France, JoieFarm Winery specializes in aromatic whites and rosés reflecting their philosophy of joy and celebration. Their approach to winemaking is both thoughtful and innovative, resulting in wines that are acclaimed for their balance and elegance. JoieFarm’s picturesque setting and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite among visitors seeking both quality wines and a connection to the winemaking process.
10. Van Westen Vineyards
Van Westen Vineyards takes pride in over three generations of farming history on the Naramata Bench. Their focus on creating high-quality VQA wines is evident in their meticulous vineyard management and winemaking practices. Specializing in varietals that thrive in the Okanagan, such as Viognier and Cabernet Franc, Van Westen combines tradition with innovation to produce wines that are truly reflective of the region’s terroir.
11. Nichol Vineyard
As one of the pioneering wineries on the Naramata Bench, Nichol Vineyard has a reputation for producing exceptional Syrah and a commitment to minimal intervention winemaking. Their vineyard, one of the northernmost in the area, benefits from the unique microclimate, contributing to the distinct character of their wines. Nichol’s approach emphasizes the natural expression of the grape, resulting in wines that are both powerful and refined.
12. Elephant Island Orchard Wines
Elephant Island offers a delightful departure from traditional grape wines by focusing on fruit wines made from apples, cherries, and other orchard fruits. Their innovative approach to winemaking challenges perceptions and offers a unique tasting experience. The winery’s playful spirit is matched by the quality of their wines, which are crafted to surprise and engage the senses.
13. Serendipity Winery
At Serendipity Winery, the journey from vine to bottle is one of discovery and passion. The winery offers a diverse range of wines, with an emphasis on crafting experiences that reflect the winemaker’s artistry and the vineyard’s bounty. From sparkling wines to complex reds, each bottle tells a story of Serendipity’s dedication to quality and innovation.
14. Black Widow Winery
This small, family-run winery specializes in handcrafted, small-batch wines, focusing on quality over quantity. Black Widow is known for its welcoming atmosphere and personalized tasting experiences, allowing visitors to explore their range of wines, including a notable Pinot Gris and a rich, layered Meritage. The winery’s commitment to excellence is evident in every glass.
15. Moraine Estate Winery
Moraine Estate Winery stands out for its stunning location and the exceptional quality of its wines. With a focus on showcasing the terroir of the Naramata Bench, Moraine produces wines that are both complex and accessible. The winery’s picturesque setting, complete with views of Okanagan Lake and surrounding mountains, provides a perfect backdrop for tasting their acclaimed Pinot Noir and Riesling.
16. Foxtrot Vineyards
Foxtrot Vineyards specializes in crafting premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, focusing on expressing the terroir of the Naramata Bench through meticulous vineyard management and winemaking practices. Their wines are noted for their elegance, balance, and depth of flavor. Visiting Foxtrot offers an intimate glimpse into the production of some of the region’s most sought-after Pinot Noirs.
17. Daydreamer Wines
Daydreamer is a small, family-operated winery known for its artisanal approach to winemaking, producing limited quantities of high-quality wines. Their portfolio includes a mix of traditional varietals and interesting blends, crafted with the intention of reflecting the unique microclimates of the Naramata Bench. The casual, welcoming atmosphere of their tasting room makes every visitor feel like part of the family.
18. Kettle Valley Winery
With its deep roots in the Naramata Bench, Kettle Valley Winery is known for its bold reds and expressive whites. The winery places a strong emphasis on low-intervention winemaking techniques, allowing the natural characteristics of the fruit to shine through. Their commitment to quality is evident in the complex, layered flavors of their wines, making Kettle Valley a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Naramata’s terroir.
19. MOCOJO Winery
MOCOJO is newer to the scene but has quickly made a name for itself with its vibrant and expressive wines. Focusing on varietals that thrive in the Okanagan’s climate, MOCOJO Winery offers a range of approachable, fruit-forward wines alongside more structured, age-worthy options. The winery’s modern tasting room and friendly staff ensure a memorable visit for all who stop by.
20. Howling Bluff Estate Winery
This family-run winery has garnered attention for its commitment to producing small-lot, high-quality wines. Howling Bluff is particularly celebrated for its Summa Quies series, which includes an exceptional Pinot Noir and a beautifully balanced Sauvignon Blanc. The winery’s dedication to sustainable viticulture and the intimate tasting experience it offers make it a jewel on the Naramata Bench.
21. Monster Vineyards
Monster Vineyards is a fun, approachable winery that doesn’t take itself too seriously, except when it comes to making wine. With labels and names inspired by mythical creatures, Monster aims to demystify the wine experience, making it accessible to newcomers and enjoyable for all. Their lively tasting room is the perfect place to sample a range of varietals, from refreshing whites to hearty reds.
22. Ruby Blues Winery
At Ruby Blues Winery, the vibrant spirit of the 60s lives on, combined with a passion for making exceptional wine. This boutique winery is known for its colorful, retro-inspired tasting room and equally colorful owner. The focus here is on high-quality, small-batch wines, with a particular emphasis on Riesling and Viognier. A visit to Ruby Blues is an experience filled with joy, music, and, of course, excellent wine.
23. Three Sisters Winery
Three Sisters Winery, named after the owner’s three daughters, embodies family, tradition, and the love of winemaking. Situated with stunning views of the surrounding hills and vineyards, this winery specializes in producing a range of varietals that speak to the heart of the Naramata Bench’s terroir. From elegant Pinot Noir to aromatic whites, Three Sisters is dedicated to creating memorable wines that celebrate family and the beauty of the Okanagan.
Each of these wineries offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Naramata’s wine country, inviting visitors to explore the diverse landscapes, flavors, and stories of this richly endowed region. Whether you’re drawn to the artistry of winemaking, the beauty of the vineyards, or the joy of discovery, the Naramata Bench has something to captivate every wine enthusiast.
Experiences Beyond the Vine
While the wine might draw you to Naramata, the community and natural beauty will convince you to stay. The region is dotted with charming bed and breakfasts, boutique inns, and luxury accommodations, providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Try staying the night in acutal vineyards like The Inn at Therapy Vineyards or perhaps a Suite at Gjoa’s Vineyard. For the active folks, outdoor include kayaking on Lake Okanagan’s crystal-clear waters or hiking and biking along scenic trails with panoramic views of the valley.
The Naramata Bench also hosts a vibrant calendar of events, including wine festivals, harvest celebrations, and art shows, with a sense of community offering visitors a glimpse into the local culture.
Why Visit Naramata Wineries?
Visiting the Naramata wineries is more than just a trip; it’s an immersion into a lifestyle where the pace slows, senses are heightened, and the connection to land and community is palpable. It’s a destination for those who seek authenticity, quality, and a touch of magic in their travels. Whether you’re toasting to the sunset over Lake Okanagan or discovering a new favorite wine, Naramata offers moments of bliss and discovery at every turn.
Embark on Your Naramata Journey
As you plan your visit to the Naramata wineries, remember that each season offers a different experience. Whether it’s the vibrant greens of spring, the golden hues of harvest time, or the tranquil beauty of winter, Naramata’s charm is ever-present. So, pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and prepare for an unforgettable journey to British Columbia’s hidden gem. The Naramata Bench Wineries awaits to share its stories, wines, and wonders with you.
A long-time resident of Bristish Columbia, Sarah is a writer, traveler, wine & food lover and co-owner of Discover the Pacific Northwest and Live Dream Discover.
