Seasonal wineries are opening up; the summer tourists are yet to arrive, leaving the tastings open for both locals and eager BC wine lovers alike.
Here in the Okanagan Valley, we can feel that the first day of Spring has indeed passed, and it is finally warming up! Spring is a fantastic time to visit the valley and the Lake Country Scenic Sip trail. Wineries are re-opening, and/or expanding their offerings and hours. Best of all the summer tourists are yet to arrive, leaving the tasting rooms open for both locals and eager BC wine lovers alike.
1) More Events and the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival
The warmer weather brings the start of event season - live music, farm tours, and market days. You will also find many wineries expanding their tasting and tour offerings in preparation for the busy summer month - elevated wine tastings, food and wine pairings, and the re-stocking of picnic supplies.
If you're planning to visit between May 5th -15th, check out the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival. Many of our Lake Country Scenic Sip wineries will participate. Since its inception in1980, the Okanagan Wine Festival society has been a part of wineries' calendars. As well as Festival hosted events, wineries will also host onsite events. These can include winemakers' dinners, vertical wine tastings, food and wine pairings. Every year brings new events. To find events happening on the Lake Country Scenic Sip trail, visit our event page or the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival e-guide.
2) The Dining - Restaurants, Patios and Picnics
Don't forget to look into the local foodie scene. As well as being home to four fabulous winery restaurants; Garden Bistro at O'Rourkes Peak Cellars, Chaos Bistro at Ex Nihilo, The Lookout at Gray Monk Winery and Block One at 50th Parallel, the Scenic Sip trail is also home to multiple picnic spots. At Intrigue Wines, you will find a large grass patio with picnic tables to enjoy their local charcuterie with a bottle of wine. Arrowleaf Cellars also has a picnic area and offers wine glasses or flights to enjoy with local bites. At Ancient Hill Winery, you are welcome to bring your own picnic and enjoy with a bottle of their wine on the patio. Finally, at Blind Tiger Winery (opening May 15th), you will find an inviting picnic area; check their website for live music updates and the re-opening of their pizza offerings.
3) Spring Wine Releases
And finally, Spring Wine Releases! These often include popular Rosé and white wines which can sell out during the Summer time, so Spring wine tastings means more selection and a better chance of bringing home your favourite bottle of Rosé.
Things to Remember for Wine Touring in Spring:
Some wineries are re-opening or adjusting their hours at this time of year - so it is best to check their website or google listing for the most up to date information
Although it is not as busy as Summer, checking booking policies before arrival is best. Use booking tools if they are available. Bookings help wineries prepare ahead of time and stop any disappointment!
Don't be shy and have fun! We encourage you to ask questions, we love what we do, and like nothing better than to engage in conversation about what makes our piece of paradise so special.