The diverse mix of nationalities in the area helped shape the region through their winemaking heritage and agricultural knowledge.
At Phantom Creek, Napa veteran Mark Beringer puts his touch on the regions winemaking.
Here’s how to plan a trip to the underrated Canadian wine region.
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Each of the 226 adobe-style suites features spacious kitchens and cozy fireplaces, and some are even pet-friendly.
Acampground, RV park, and cabinslocated right on the lake below the winery are also available to rent.
The on-site restaurant Terrafina has a fantastic menu, Busmann said.
Courtesy of Nk’Mip Cellars
Hester Creek really makes every day a special occasion.
Busmann added, Its family-friendly, and it reminds people that wine doesn’t have to be pretentious.
The Pig Out Festival
Wine and barbecue?
Courtesy of Spirit Ridge Lake Resort
The 12.5-mile trail begins at Osoyoos Lakes north end and follows the Okanagan River Channel through farms and vineyards.
Its well-maintained, relatively flat, and is accessed at the wooden bridge on Road 22.
Best Restaurants
Masala Bistro
Kismet WinerysMasala Bistrois unlike anything else you will find in Oliver.
Courtesy of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country
The modern restaurant sits amid a picturesque vineyard with mountain views.
Each dish has a suggested wine pairing and the knowledgeable staff can guide you with bottle selections.
TacoRiendo Mexican Cantina
Originally from Mazatlan, Mexico, Jany Lopez moved to the area in 2002.
Courtesy of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country
She and her husband openedTacoRiendain 2021 and it has been bursting at the seams with customers ever since.
The menu features comforting classics like tortas, tostadas, and tacos, and the portions are ample.
Busmann brings people from all over the world to eat at this humble eatery.
Courtesy of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country
I love to eat and eat and eat and eat.
They make a really mean burrito, and Im a sucker for their enchiladas, she said.
The glass-encased restaurant offers sweeping vineyard, desert, and lake views while dining on Indigenous-inspired dishes.
Courtesy of Phantom Creek Winery
Best Time to Visit
Fall is bountiful in Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country.
And September is harvest season.
Theres melons, peaches, and apples.
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Tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers are coming alive, Busmann said.
Then of course theres wine harvest.
And theHalf Corked Marathonin May brings all the Spring revelry.
Courtesy of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country
From there, most visitors rent a car and drive the picturesque route to Oliver, British Columbia.
Its also easily reached by car from major cities like Vancouver, and other parts of Canada.
Olivers downtown is very walkable and has a number of coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
Courtesy of Rust Wine Co.
Another option for those heading to Phantom Creek Estate isflying in by private jet using the estates luxury partners.
Gene and Shelly Covert operate the fourth-generation, 650-acre organic farm, vineyard, and winery.
Busmann added, The wines that they’re doing are amazing.
It’s a story that we don’t really see anywhere else in the world.
Rust Wine Co. Their zinfandel is especially impressive.Rust Wine Co.features an outdoor patio, garden, and tasting room.
Kelowna International Airport has all the major car rental companies like Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and more.
Penticton has Budget and National car rental kiosks.
Once in Oliver, there are a number of e-bike rental shops, as well ase-bike wine safari tours.
Its physically beautiful riding or driving around the region.
Dont forget to download theWine Country Digital Passportto help plan your winery tours and experiences.
