Are Kelowna wineries open in the winter?
Yes, some Kelowna and Okanagan wineries are open during the winter, but winter winery hours are generally more limited than during the main tourism season. Some wineries operate on reduced schedules, while others may close for part of the winter or require reservations or appointments.
Winter can actually be a great time for a winery visit if you prefer a quieter experience. Tasting rooms are often less busy, giving visitors more opportunity to talk with tasting-room staff and enjoy the wines without the crowds of the summer season.
What is winter like at Kelowna wineries?
Winter in Kelowna is very different from the busy summer wine-tour season. The vineyards are dormant, the weather can be cold or snowy, and many wineries concentrate their visitor experiences indoors.
- Reduced hours — Some wineries operate fewer days or shorter hours during the winter.
- Reservations may be required — Some wineries may operate by appointment rather than offering walk-in tastings.
- Quieter tasting rooms — Winter generally brings fewer visitors than the busy summer months.
- Indoor experiences — Winter tastings are primarily focused on indoor tasting rooms rather than patios and outdoor vineyard experiences.
- Weather matters — Snow, ice and winter road conditions can affect travel between wineries.
Does Red Dog Wine Tours operate in the winter?
No. Red Dog Wine Tours operates during the main wine-tour season and does not offer our regular wine tours during the winter.
Our regular wine tours are designed around the spring, summer and fall visitor season, when Kelowna and West Kelowna wineries are operating their full tourism programs and the vineyards are at their most active.
If you’re visiting Kelowna during the winter, we recommend checking directly with the wineries you are interested in visiting before making plans. Winter schedules can change, and a winery that is normally open during the main season may have different winter hours or require an appointment.
Is winter a good time to visit Kelowna wine country?
It can be, especially if you enjoy a quieter and more relaxed tasting experience. You won’t get the same vineyard atmosphere as you would during the growing season, but winter can offer a different perspective on Okanagan wine country.
If your main goal is to experience the vineyards, enjoy outdoor views and visit several wineries as part of a guided tour, the main wine-tour season is generally a better choice.
When is the best time to visit a Kelowna vineyard?
The best time depends on the type of experience you want. Spring brings new growth, summer offers long days and busy vineyard activity, and fall brings harvest season and changing colours.
For more information, see When Should You Go to a Kelowna Vineyard?.
What should I do if I want to visit wineries in winter?
Start by choosing the wineries you want to visit and checking their current winter hours directly. If reservations are required, make them before you travel. It’s also important to allow extra time for winter driving conditions.
If you’re planning a future visit during our operating season, you can avoid the driving altogether with a Red Dog Wine Tour. We provide transportation between the wineries and pickup and drop-off within our designated Kelowna and West Kelowna service area.
The bottom line
Some Kelowna wineries are open in winter, but you should never assume a winery’s summer schedule continues through the winter. Check current hours and reservation requirements before you go.
If you’re looking for a guided Kelowna wine tour, Red Dog operates during the main wine-tour season rather than winter. For the best selection of wineries, outdoor vineyard experiences and regular guided tours, consider visiting during the spring, summer or fall.
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