South Okanagan wineries chart recovery and ambition
New releases and renovated tasting rooms signal growth across the Okanagan and Similkameen valleys, from carbon-neutral pioneers to hidden-gem Cabernet specialists.
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Wine country in the South Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys is showing real momentum this spring and summer, with winemakers and estate owners rebuilding after harsh winter damage and launching new projects that reflect broader ambitions for the region.
At Liber Estates in Osoyoos, newly hired winemaker Gustav Allander has released two electric white wines—a 2025 Sauvignon Blanc Organic and 2025 Sémillon—available at the winery's new tasting room on Highway 97, just north of Highway 3. The estate, run by owner Mike Dowell, signals confidence about the Similkameen's future as a major wine region.
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards on Oliver's Golden Mile Bench, under winemaker Leandro Nosal, is releasing standout bottles including a 2023 Reserve Chardonnay and 2019 Sparkling Blanc de Blanc. The winery is also hosting its Sunset Concert Series starting June 20 with Antonio Larosa, continuing July 18 and August 15. As Canada's first carbon-neutral winery, Tinhorn exemplifies the region's environmental leadership.
Across the valley, Bartier Bros on Black Sage Bench has rebuilt parts of its vineyard after winter freeze damage and released sleek new wines—a 2025 Sauvignon Blanc and 2025 rosé. The tiny tasting room offers a sunny patio and bocce court for a leisurely afternoon.
Rust Winery, on the Golden Mile, is launching new artist-inspired labels alongside fresh releases including a 2025 White Crush Alsace blend and a 2025 Cabernet Franc described as one of the best expressions produced in B.C. A Summer Events series features live music and food.
Black Hills Estate Winery released a new 2025 rosé blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre, with a coral hue and boatloads of strawberry and raspberry flavours. The Vineyard Kitchen hospitality centre on Black Sage Road offers extended tasting and dining opportunities.
Hester Creek Winery unveiled its newest label, the 2022 Undici—a rare blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Malbec echoing Tuscany's Bolgheri reds. The estate is preparing for a busy season of special events, estate lunches and dinners, and a planned harvest festival.
The region is only scratching the surface of what awaits this summer and fall.