The History of Penticton's Wineries
The story of the Penticton winery scene is interwoven with the history of the area itself, portraying growth and cultivation that is simply inspiring. The first grape wines produced in B.C. were made available for sale in 1939 by The Growers Wine Co. Ltd. and Calona Wines Ltd. By 1961, five wineries graced the landscape and by the late 1980's there were 19 licensed producers operating in BC. When Mission Hill won "Best Chardonnay in the World" award at the International Wine & Spirit Competition in London, England in 1994, that is when this region was noticed globally. Penticton’s winery journey accelerated after that with the attitudes around Canadian wines and the introduction of low alcohol, sweet sparkling wines with this region becoming a notable name in the wine world.
Penticton is located on the southern tip of Okanagan Lake, known for a variety of delicious wines. The region has an impressive 355 acres of stunning vineyards. Notable for their decadent Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Rosé, along with Pinot Noir and sparkling varieties, Penticton wineries offer an exquisite repertoire of wines that cater to a broad spectrum of preferences.
Exploring Penticton's Wineries
Embarking on a tour of Penticton's wineries is an unforgettable adventure into Okanagan's wine country. There are over 170 wineries operating in the South Okanagan region, producing more than 75 grape varietals. From these, three different wine regions dominate the scene - Naramata, Okanagan Falls, and Summerland, which together boast over 80 wineries within a 15-20 minute drive of Penticton.
Time Family of Wines is a winery with a portfolio of 3 brands which includes Evolve Cellars, the McWatters Collection, and the new Chronos brand. Building on the legacy of the McWatters family, who established the business and its reputation over decades, the Mayerts have introduced new perspectives and opportunities to the Time Family's portfolio, These wineries produce high-quality, premium wines that reflect the complexity and depth of flavour unique to the Okanagan Valley's terroir, offering an authentic taste of the region.
Another winery that stands out is the Painted Rock Estate Winery. Begun with the vision of the Okanagan Valley becoming a prominent wine region, owners John & Trish Skinner turned this dream into reality in 2005. The winery is a family-run estate and produces fine wines, capturing the region's distinctive character.
Discover the Tantalizing Flavours
Wine enthusiasts who venture to Penticton are greeted by a great variety of wine flavours reflecting the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley. Famed Pinot Gris offering brilliant fruity notes bound in a refreshing acidity, or Gewürztraminer graced with a bouquet of fragrant florals and exotic spices. Perhaps the most captivating of all is the Rosé, a refreshingly versatile drop, just as comfortable in the heat of summer as it is pairing with winter's hearty fare.
Participate in the Wine Culture
Often, wineries offer tastings, winemaking workshops, and vineyard tours. Be it a beginner uncorking their first bottle or a sommelier able to discern the subtlest of flavours, there’s something in Penticton for every wine enthusiast.
A visit to Penticton's wineries offers more than just an indulgence in fine wines. It's a journey into a rich culture and tradition, a first-hand experience of the love and dedication that goes into every bottle, and the result is something truly magical—much like a perfect glass of wine. Penticton's wine scene is a destination in and of itself, where every sip tells a story, and every vineyard holds a chapter of the city's rich viniculture history.
