When you think of Sustainable and Organic Wineries, two key elements stand out – their commitment to eco-friendly practices and the exceptional quality of the wines they produce. With the rising global popularity of organic and sustainable winemaking, it’s clear that these wineries are leading the way. They prioritize the health of the environment, the well-being of their community and workers, and above all, the quality of their wines.

Experience firsthand why West Kelowna is becoming a beacon for sustainable and organic winemaking on this unique wine tour.

Discover the Distinct Practices of Sustainable and Organic Winemaking:

Sustainable Wineries are committed to minimizing their environmental impact by prioritizing conservation, preservation, economic feasibility, and social responsibility. To minimize waste and reduce water consumption, eco-friendly farming techniques are implemented. The entire ecosystem in which the vineyard exists is taken into consideration, with an emphasis on biodiversity and soil health.    

Organic Wineries, on the other hand, maintain vineyards through farming practices that eliminate synthetic chemicals, such as pesticides and fertilizers. They enhance the essence of the terrior by adopting natural methods that prioritize soil health, enhancing organic matter and microbial activity. Organic vineyards are meticulously managed for crop canopy, soil fertility, and pest and disease control to maximize the quality and health of the wine grapes. This results in an ecosystem conducive to the production of high-quality wines.   

The relationship between Sustainable and Organic Practices in Winemaking is symbiotic and extends beyond the process. The farmers are dedicated to preserving the environment, producing purer wines, and fostering a deeper connection with the land, ensuring the preservation of the environment for future generations.

Unlocking the Mysteries: What Makes a Winery Both Sustainable and Organic?

• Enhancing the habitat for wildlife in the area.
• Implementing steps that minimize soil erosion.
• Implementing composting to minimize the need for fertilizer.
• Designing a winery in a way that maximizes energy efficiency.  
• A focus on maintaining a balanced ecosystem within the vineyard.
• Renewable energy sources including solar panels or wind turbines.
• Responsible irrigation practices to reduce water usage such as drip irrigation.
• Cultivating grapes without the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or fertilizers.
• Natural methods are used to nurture the vines and protect them from diseases and pests.
• Use of cover crops which promote diversity and in turn add nutrients and prevent soil erosion.
• Pest management techniques, such as establishing beneficial insects like praying mantises and introducing animals like chickens, sheep, and cows into the vineyards.

Organic Certification in British Columbia is a two-step process. First viticulture (grape growing) is certified as “crop production” secondly, winemaking (the process of fermentation, aging, bottling, ect) is certified as “processing”. To qualify under the organic certification, each bottle of wine must be made with 95% organic ingredients. Organically grown grapes must come from vineyards that follow the guidelines set by the Certified Organics Association. They can’t use toxic pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers to grow the grapes. And finally, the use of GMOs in the production of these wines is banned. There are currently more than 40 certified organic wineries or vineyards in BC. If you’d like to continue reading about

Discover the Boutique Wineries of West Kelowna: Pioneers in Environmental Responsibility, Sustainable Farming, and Organic Certification.

Discover the authentic taste of organic wines at Beaumont Family Estate Winery, a certified organic winery since its inception in 1995. With an organic designation under the Similkameen Okanagan Organic Producers Association, Beaumont Family Estate Winery is a testament to sustainable winemaking.

The Winery is known for its great wine, friendly people, and the welcoming atmosphere. During your wine tasting experience, you may have the pleasure of meeting Alana, their esteemed winemaker. Here you can sip on their exquisite wines while learning about the unique winemaking techniques that set them apart. Their selection includes a variety of wine varietals such as Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gamay Noir, and Pinot Noir.

To elevate your wine tasting experience, don’t miss out on their Sparkling wine or the dessert-style Ice Wine. Visit Beaumont Family Estate Winery to immerse yourself in a world of organic wines and sustainable winemaking practices.

Experience the delightful taste of organic wines at Rollingdale, a family-owned farm gate winery established in 2004. With a commitment to environmental sustainability, Rollingdale achieved organic certification in 2007, setting a high standard for organic farming practices within the wine community. The simple yet charming wine cellar doubles as a tasting room and is one of the only wineries that offers a sample straight from the barrel.

Indulge in an intimate wine tasting featuring a diverse selection of varietals including Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Marechal Foch. Rollingdale is renowned for its delectable Port-style wine, known as ‘Fort’, and a delightful range of dessert wines, including Late Harvest and Ice Wine.

Visit Rollingdale Winery to savor the flavors of environmentally conscious wines, crafted with dedication and passion on their organically certified land.

Discover the nuances of organic winemaking at Kalala Organic Estate Winery, nestled on the upper bench of West Kelowna offering gorgeous views of the valley mountains. Established in 2006, Kalala’s vineyards achieved organic certification in 2010, marking their commitment to sustainable winemaking. "Kalala" translates to “Miracle Place,” which aptly reflects this winery’s commitment to sustainable viticulture, excellent organic wines, and always working in harmony with nature.

During your visit, explore a diverse range of varietals including Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Pinot Auxerrois, Zweigelt, and Regent. Each wine is a testament to Kalala’s dedication to quality and organic practices.

For those with a sweet tooth, delve into Kalala’s extensive lineup of Ice Wines, each offering a unique taste of the Okanagan. Or, add a touch of sparkle to your wine tasting experience with their Frizzante. Visit Kalala Organic Estate Winery to experience the true essence of organic winemaking.

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Off the Grid Organic Winery, a family-owned and operated permaculture winery with 5 generations of farmers and a legacy dating back to 1909. They achieved Organic Certification in 2010 with their full lineup of wines following suit in 2019. They are certified under the Canada Organic Regime (COR) and the British Columbia Certified Organic Program (BCCOP), Off the Grid is undoubtedly committed to sustainable winemaking.

The experience at Off the Grid extends beyond wine. The winery building itself is a fully sustainable, straw bale construction, powered by solar energy. When you arrive, you’re in for an adventure, start your visit with a self-guided tour of their farm, a sanctuary for rescued animals including rabbits, sheep, goats, chickens, and turkeys. This unique experience sets Off the Grid apart, offering visitors a glimpse into their commitment to permaculture and animal welfare.

Savor the flavors of their diverse wine selection during your visit. With varietals including Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Merlot, Blauer Montag/Zweigelt, and Pinot Noir, there’s a wine to suit every palate. Visit Off the Grid Organic Winery to experience the fusion of sustainable winemaking, permaculture, and animal rescue, all while enjoying their exquisite organic wines.

In the middle of these beautiful family owned and operated organic boutique wineries is an Okanagan icon.

Canada’s only five-time winner of Winery of the Year, Mission Hill Estate Winery.  Driven by the pursuit of excellence from the organic and regenerative farming of the vineyards to the award-winning wines and world-class hospitality.

While it’s not a boutique winery, here you can expect to be dazzled not only by the quality of wines but with the stunning one-of-a-kind architecturally designed winery built on top of the remnants of a stratovolcano. Taking a closer look at the vineyards, you can see bees, falcons, and chickens that replace the need for pesticides and insecticides. Instead cover crops, earthworms, and compost are used to create a natural and diverse environment.

Your private organic wine tasting may include the following varieties Chardonnay, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Noir.

Experience the essence of sustainable and organic winemaking with our Private West Kelowna Organic Wine Tour in the stunning Okanagan Valley. Surrounded by the majestic waters of Okanagan Lake, the significance of sustainable farming practices becomes evident. Okanagan Lake, a freshwater haven, is home to a diverse range of fish and wildlife species. It serves as the primary source of irrigation and drinking water for the area and offers numerous recreational activities. Every step taken towards sustainable farming helps lighten our footprint and enhance our environment.

Undecided on which wineries to include in your Private Custom Organic Wine Tour? Why not explore them all and cap off your tour with a memorable dining experience at The Terrace Restaurant at the award-winning Mission Hill Estate Winery. Embrace the opportunity to support sustainable and organic winemaking by booking the #1 West Kelowna Tour, as voted by Trip Advisor users. Experience the harmony of nature and winemaking in the heart of the Okanagan Valley.