The Naramata Bench is one of the best-loved wine districts in British Columbia, a ribbon of vineyards on the glacial terraces, or benches, that step up from the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake north of Penticton. The terrain, the lake's moderating effect and long, warm summers suit a wide mix of grapes, and the district is known for elegant reds, aromatic whites and sparkling wines made by small, family-run estates. Winding Naramata Road links the wineries, with the lake glinting below and orchards and vineyards stacked above, so the drive is as much a part of the day as the tasting. It lies roughly an hour south of Kelowna, which is exactly why a guided tour makes sense: someone else navigates the bends, handles the tasting reservations and drives you home, so everyone in your group can taste properly. Compared with the larger, more polished estates around Kelowna, Naramata feels quieter and more personal, with tasting rooms where you often meet the people who make the wine.
What to do
Join a guided five-winery tasting day on the Naramata Bench. The tour moves from estate to estate with a guide who explains the grapes, the soils and the story of each producer, and you taste a flight at every stop. Expect a mix of whites, rosés, reds and sometimes sparkling or dessert wines, with time to buy bottles you like.
Many Naramata tasting rooms have terraces with views over the lake, and the best of the day is often sitting outside with a glass between stops. Tours of this kind usually include a lunch break or recommend a place to eat, so check what is covered and whether you should bring cash or a card for purchases.
Practical planning
Confirm the pickup locations, start time and return time when you book, because tours that serve the Okanagan often collect from several towns and the drive from Kelowna takes a good portion of the morning. Tastings are for guests of legal drinking age, and some tasting rooms limit children. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a layer for cool terraces and carry a small bag for bottles, noting that shipping from British Columbia to other provinces and countries is restricted, so ask your guide about carrying wine home.
Book ahead for weekends, harvest season and summer. Some small estates close or reduce hours in winter, so check which wineries are included on your date.
Fitting it in
A Naramata day is a full day, so plan it as the centrepiece of your wine time rather than a quick add-on. Autumn is a favourite, with harvest activity and golden vines, while summer brings the lake and patio weather and spring brings blossom and quieter rooms. It pairs well with a second night in the valley or a stop at the SS Sicamous in Penticton, which is close to the start of Naramata Road.
If you prefer a tighter schedule, the Kelowna afternoon wine tour and the visits to Mission Hill and Quails Gate give a taste of the larger estates closer to town. Choose Naramata if you value small producers, lake views and a slower pace.
What to expect
The experience
A guided day of tastings at five wineries on the Naramata Bench, with transport so nobody has to drive.
Best time
Autumn for harvest colour, summer for patio weather and spring for blossom; check which wineries are open on your date.
How long
Plan for most of a day, including the drive to and from the Naramata area.
Tips
Confirm pickup points and times, eat a good breakfast, bring a layer for terraces and ask your guide about carrying wine home.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Wine lovers who prefer small, family-run estates and lake views to large showpiece wineries.
- Families
- Mostly an adult outing; check with the operator and individual tasting rooms about children.
- Couples
- A relaxed, scenic day with no designated driver, ideal for a romantic or celebratory trip.
- Pair with
- The SS Sicamous in Penticton, a second night in the valley or a Kelowna food tour afterwards.
- Time needed
- A full day, with about an hour of driving each way if you start from Kelowna.
Good questions
Where is the Naramata Bench?+
It is on the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake, north of Penticton, and roughly an hour south of Kelowna by road. Naramata Road links most of its wineries.
Why take a tour instead of driving?+
A guide handles the winding road, the tasting reservations and the drive home, so everyone can taste properly. It is also easier at busy times when parking is tight.
How many wineries will I visit?+
This tour is built around five wineries, with tastings at each. Check the tour details for the current list and for what is included at lunchtime.
Can I ship wine home?+
Rules on shipping alcohol across provincial and national borders are strict. Ask your guide and the winery staff what is possible before you buy.
When is the best season?+
Autumn is popular for harvest and colour, while summer is best for patios and the lake. Winter hours are more limited, so check what is open.
