What time of the year is mulled wine popular in Kelowna and Canada?

Mulled wine is especially popular in Kelowna and across Canada during the winter months (November–February), particularly around Christmas markets, holiday events, and cozy indoor tastings at wineries and festivals.

What kind of wine is Kelowna known for?

Kelowna is known for cool-climate whites like Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Riesling, plus elegant reds such as Pinot Noir—perfect for the region’s terroir and shorter season.

What is the best wine in Kelowna?

Standouts include refined Pinot Noir, crisp Chardonnay, aromatic Riesling, and bold reds—personal taste and pairings guide the choice.

Why is Kelowna so popular?

Kelowna’s popularity comes from its stunning scenery, outdoor activities (hiking, lake sports), thriving wine industry, festivals, and year-round appeal—making it a top destination for wine lovers and adventurers.

Parts of the southern Okanagan are semi-arid with desert-like conditions, but Kelowna is moderated by Okanagan Lake—lush vineyards, orchards, and green spaces dominate.

Kelowna spans about 215 square kilometers (83 sq mi), with a population of around 150,000—large enough for vibrant culture and dining, yet compact for easy wine tour access.

Why is the Okanagan so hot?

The Okanagan has hot, sunny summers due to its valley location with mountain barriers that trap heat, plus the warming effect of Okanagan Lake—creating one of Canada’s warmest climates, ideal for grape growing.

Is Kelowna BC a good place to live?

Yes—Kelowna offers beautiful scenery, a thriving wine industry, outdoor recreation, mild climate, and a relaxed lifestyle, making it a popular choice for residents and retirees.

Boucherie Road South Slope

Overlooking Okanagan Lake on the south-facing slopes of Mt. Boucherie, these wineries along Boucherie Road sit in a unique east-west valley in the Okanagan. Spectacular views await on this section of the West Kelowna wine trail, and special micro-climates produce distinctive wines. All wineries here enjoy lake views and vistas of vineyards on the Kelowna side. This is Part 2 of 4 in the West Kelowna Wine Route series. Also check out what you should know before going on a tour. See Part 1, Part 3, and Part 4 of this 4-part series.

The Hatch

What, pray-tell, is ‘the hatch’?
The Hatch is a popular wine trail stop in West Kelowna. On a basic level, it’s a tasting emporium unlike any other in the Okanagan. On a grander scale, it’s the realization of a group of eccentric grapeophiles who have lived and learned the ways of the vine for countless years. Located on Boucherie Road South Slope — 3225 Boucherie Road. Website | Phone: 778-755-6013 | Drop In

Quails’ Gate Family Estate Winery

Quails’ Gate has shaped the development of the wine industry for more than six decades. It is one of Canada’s leading family-owned estate wineries. Great wines begin in the vineyards. They have built a reputation for producing exceptional wines that pair perfectly anytime, anywhere, thanks to their passion for grape growing and dedication to excellence. Stay, drink, and dine! The Quails’ Gate Estate features a tasting room with panoramic views of Okanagan Lake. Located on Boucherie Road South Slope — 3303 Boucherie Rd. Website | Phone: (250) 769-4451 | By Appointment

Iconic view of Okanagan Lake and vineyards from Quails' Gate tasting room and restaurant — One of the Okanagan Wineries most iconic view overlooking vineyards and lake from tasting room and the restaurant

Frind Estate Winery

Frind Estate Winery, located on the historic Bennett Property in West Kelowna, British Columbia, is a breathtaking lakefront winery. Markus Frind bought the property in 2017 after selling his company Plenty of Fish and wanting to do something more hands-on. It is the Central Okanagan’s only beachfront winery. Guests can dine on the patio restaurant or pick up a picnic lunch from the deli and enjoy it in the beachside park with a bottle of wine. Located on Boucherie Road South Slope — 3725 Boucherie Rd. Website | Phone: (778) 754-1118 | By Appointment

Mission Hill Family Estate

Mission Hill Family Estate is a family-owned winery well-known for its exceptional wines, beautiful setting, and Terrace Restaurant. The winery’s dramatic architecture is surrounded by scenic lake views and lush vineyards, culminating in a setting that celebrates wine, food, and the arts. Located on Boucherie Road South Slope — Website | 1730 Mission Hill Rd | Phone: 250-768-6448 | By Appointment