Quails' Gate is one of the Okanagan's best-loved estate wineries, on the Boucherie Road slope in West Kelowna with the lake spread out below. The wine shop offers estate tastings daily, vineyard tastings that include a walk through the vines to a gathering site with views, and private wine and cheese tastings in the Wine Library. The estate is a good place to taste Pinot Noir and other cool-climate varieties, and the setting is relaxed rather than grand, with a patio, a restaurant and a farmhouse feel that suits a long afternoon. Reservations are strongly recommended, though walk-ins are welcome when there is space. Beyond the tasting room the estate also offers lakefront accommodation, so some visitors stay on the property rather than just visiting.
What to do
Start with an estate tasting in the wine shop if you want a quick, relaxed introduction, or book the vineyard tasting to combine wine with a short walk and a view. Private wine and cheese tastings in the Wine Library suit small groups who want a slower pace. The estate's Old Vines Restaurant serves seasonal tasting menus indoors and on the patio with lake views, so lunch or dinner here turns a tasting into a full outing. Ask staff which wines are poured that day, because the line-up rotates.
Practical planning
The winery is at 3303 Boucherie Road in West Kelowna, about 20 minutes from downtown Kelowna. The tasting room's published hours run through the day, every day, and the site recommends booking in advance through its reservation page, especially at weekends and during festive events. The restaurant takes reservations separately. The estate's pages were last updated some time ago, so check hours and menus before you go. As with any tasting, plan a designated driver or a tour, and note that everyone tasting must be of legal drinking age.
Fitting it in
Quails' Gate sits close to Mission Hill and other West Kelowna estates, so the two make a natural half-day. If you prefer not to drive, the afternoon wine tour from Kelowna passes through this part of the valley. Bring a jacket for the vineyard walk in cool weather, and leave time for the patio, because the lake view is half the appeal.
What to expect
The experience
A relaxed tasting in the wine shop or the vineyard, with an optional meal at the estate restaurant.
Best time
A clear afternoon for the lake view, booked ahead at weekends.
How long
Plan on one to two hours for a tasting, longer if you stay for lunch.
Tips
Reserve your tasting, check hours and menus before you go, and arrange a driver or a tour.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a relaxed, family-run estate with lake views and a good Pinot Noir.
- Families
- It is mainly an adult stop, though the grounds are pleasant; check with the estate about children at tastings.
- Couples
- Book the vineyard tasting or a wine and cheese tasting in the Wine Library.
- Pair with
- Mission Hill Family Estate and the afternoon wine tour from Kelowna.
- Time needed
- One to two hours, or half a day with lunch.
Good questions
Do I need a reservation?+
Reservations are strongly recommended, although walk-ins are accepted when space allows. Use the estate's reservation page to book.
What tastings are offered?+
The wine shop offers estate tastings, vineyard tastings with a walk through the vines, and private wine and cheese tastings in the Wine Library. Formats and prices change, so check the winery's page.
Is there a restaurant?+
Yes, the Old Vines Restaurant serves seasonal tasting menus indoors and on a patio with lake views. Reservations for dining are made separately.
Can I stay on the estate?+
The estate offers lakefront rentals, including a large lake house and a renovated beach cabin. Check the winery's stay page for availability.
How far is it from downtown Kelowna?+
It is on Boucherie Road in West Kelowna, about 20 minutes by car. A wine tour from Kelowna passes through the area if you prefer not to drive.
