Naramata Public Wine Tour – Full Day

Exploring the Naramata Public Wine Tour – Full Day

If you’re dreaming of a day spent tasting some of Canada’s finest wines amid stunning scenery, the Naramata Public Wine Tour offers a balanced mix of relaxed vineyard visits and scenic views. This tour, hosted by Sagebrush Tours, promises an authentic experience of the Okanagan Valley’s famed wine region, with visits to five boutique wineries, picturesque lakeside vistas, and a leisurely lunch break.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, it’s a small group experience (max 14 travelers), ensuring plenty of personal attention and a more intimate vibe. We also love that admission fees are included at each winery, which gives you a clear idea of the value. Plus, pickup and drop-off options mean you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics—just sit back and enjoy. One thing to keep in mind: the price is competitive, but to get the best value, booking around 10 days in advance is recommended.

However, if you’re looking for a highly structured, all-inclusive luxury experience or want to skip the wine tastings altogether, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, genuine tasting adventure without breaking the bank and who appreciate beautiful lakeside views paired with quality wines.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• All winery tasting fees are included, making it easier to budget.
• Scenic stops and lakeside views elevate the experience beyond just wine tasting.
• Lunch at Poplar Grove Winery offers a beautiful setting, with indoor and outdoor options.
• The tour is approximately 6 hours, including travel, tastings, and lunch.
• Booking in advance (around 10 days) improves your chances of securing a spot.

Discovering the Charm of Naramata

The Naramata Bench is a highlight for anyone exploring the Kelowna & Okanagan Valley. Known for its warm climate, abundant sunshine, and rich volcanic soil, this region produces wines that often surprise even seasoned connoisseurs. Our understanding from reviews is that the tour offers a taste of this terroir through visits to five carefully selected wineries, each with its own character.

Why the Naramata Bench Is Special

The area’s unique terroir shines through in the handcrafted wines. Wineries like Deep Roots and MOCOJO often welcome guests with a guided tasting—sometimes led by the owner—that provides insight into their winemaking philosophy and the local environment. For example, at MOCOJO, guests loved the spectacular lake view from the outdoor patio, which added a picturesque backdrop to their tasting.

What to Expect at Each Winery

• Deep Roots Winery: Known for its seated outdoor or indoor tastings, depending on weather, this spot offers a relaxed start. Guests appreciated the 45-minute visit that allows for tasting multiple wines and soaking in the vineyard ambiance.
• MOCOJO Winery: The guided tasting often includes commentary from the owner, who shares stories behind their wines. The outdoor patio offers views over the lake, which many guests find truly memorable.
• Hillside Winery: A favorite among visitors for its seated outdoor tastings (or indoor during bad weather). The winery’s setting allows for a peaceful tasting experience with a clear focus on quality.
• Therapy Vineyards: Known for its upper deck outdoor tastings, this stop offers panoramic views of the vineyard and lake. Reviewers note that the views really elevate the experience.
• Four Shadows Vineyard and Winery: The guided patio tasting here is seated, providing a comfortable spot to sample wines and enjoy the scenery.
• Poplar Grove Winery: The tour culminates here with a lunch at the winery’s beautiful location, offering indoor or outdoor dining options. Guests often mention the gorgeous setting and the relaxing atmosphere.

The Lunch Experience

The included lunch at Poplar Grove is a major highlight. It’s served in a covered outdoor area or indoor restaurant if the weather is uncooperative. While the cost of lunch isn’t included, the reservation is made for you, saving you time and hassle. Guests frequently comment on the beautiful surroundings, making it a perfect way to unwind after wine tasting.

The Discounted Price and What You’re Getting

At $147.12 per person, the tour offers a fairly competitive price point, considering it covers five winery visits with tasting fees included, bottled water, and transportation. The guided aspect—sometimes with the winery owners—adds educational value that many travelers find worthwhile. The small group format also means you’re likely to get more personalized attention and be able to ask questions more comfortably.

Authenticity and Insider Information

From reviews, it appears that the guides are knowledgeable, often speaking English and French, which broadens accessibility. Guests appreciate the relaxed pace, allowing them to truly savor each stop without feeling rushed. The 30-45 minute visits at each winery strike a good balance between tasting enough wines and not overdoing it.

Practical Tips

• Book early—most travelers recommend booking about 10 days in advance to secure a spot, especially in peak seasons.
• Weather considerations: most tastings are outdoors, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.
• Bring cash or credit card: even with tasting fees included, you might want to purchase bottles or souvenirs.
• Hydrate and pace yourself: with five wineries, it’s easy to overindulge if you’re not careful.

Transportation and Group Size

The pickup and drop-off service adds convenience; you’ll be collected from your vacation property or residence, reducing any stress about logistics. The maximum group size of 14 helps keep the experience intimate and manageable, avoiding the crowded feeling of larger tours. This setup is ideal for travelers who prefer a more personal, relaxed environment.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour is well-suited for wine lovers who want to explore the Naramata Bench without fuss. If you’re after authentic, small-scale tastings with friendly guides, and love scenic lakeside views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also a great choice for couples or small groups looking for a leisurely day out—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just unwinding in beautiful surroundings.

However, if you prefer a more structured, all-inclusive luxury experience, or are traveling solo and prefer more extensive tasting options, you might want to compare other options. Still, for the price, the value and authenticity on offer here are quite compelling.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers visits to 5 wineries, tasting fees at each location, bottled water, and transportation with pickup and drop-off from your accommodation.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is reserved and included in the itinerary, but the cost of lunch itself is not included in the $147.12 fee. The setting is scenic, and the experience is part of the overall tour value.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time, tastings, and lunch.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. There’s no specific age limit mentioned, but minors should be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather; most tastings are outdoors, so layers and sun protection are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 10 days before is recommended, as most bookings are made around that time.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Many tastings are indoors, so the experience usually continues as planned. However, outdoor tastings will move inside if necessary.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the group size makes it friendly for solo travelers who enjoy meeting others in a relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts

The Naramata Public Wine Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to one of Canada’s most scenic wine regions. It’s best suited for those wanting a small-group, authentic experience that balances tasting, scenery, and a good dose of local charm. The value for money, with tasting fees and transportation included, makes it a sound choice for visitors eager to explore the Okanagan Valley’s wine culture without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and educational day surrounded by vineyards and lakes—this tour will likely tick all your boxes. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples, or friends seeking a memorable outing in a beautiful setting. Just remember to book early, dress appropriately, and bring your curiosity along for a genuine taste of Naramata.