Canadian Wine Explorer

Canadian Wine Explorer Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Canadian Wine Explorer, Wine/Spirits, Kelowna, BC.

đź”­Exploring iconic and small, boutique wineries worldwide
🏆One of Top 25 Wine Influencers in Canada in 2026 (Feedspot)
đź“šWSET 3 (Distinction) | French Wine Scholar | Italian Wine Scholar | BC Wine Ambassador
🔞 Must be over 18 to follow

Every great wine journey includes discovering somewhere new. Today, that journey leads to Ailm Estate.For decades, the S...
07/02/2026

Every great wine journey includes discovering somewhere new.

Today, that journey leads to Ailm Estate.

For decades, the Stewart family of Quails’ Gate Winery has helped shape the BC wine industry. Ailm Estate represents their next chapter - and after visiting their newly opened tasting pop-up on Canada Day, it’s easy to see why so many people are excited about what’s to come.

Perched high on the slopes of southeast Kelowna, the temporary outdoor tasting space offers breathtaking 180-degree views over Okanagan Lake and downtown Kelowna. Even before the permanent winery is complete, there’s already a feeling that something truly special is taking shape here.

Our tasting flight included:

Non-Vintage Brut
- Pinot Noir (82%), Chardonnay (18%)
- Traditional method, 18 months on lees
- Crisp apple, pear, lemon zest and a subtle saline finish - an ideal welcome wine or a palate cleanser

2021 Blanc de Blancs
-100% Chardonnay
- Traditional method, 28 months on lees with neutral oak aging
- Layers of brioche, almond, apple and pear with delicate butter and vanilla notes

2025 Chenin Blanc
- 100% Chenin Blanc
- 35% aged in neutral French oak, 65% stainless steel
- Bright, vibrant acidity with fresh orchard fruit notes - perfect pairing for seafood and appetizers

2025 Rosé
- 100% Pinot Noir
- Barrel fermented in neutral oak, creating a softer, creamier texture than many other rosés while maintaining beautiful freshness. A perfect patio wine.

My takeaway?

Ailm Estate already feels different.

Casual. Relaxed. Intentional.

With plans underway for a stunning permanent tasting room and restaurant, this is a winery that deserves a place on every wine lover’s radar. Those panoramic views make the visit worthwhile - and I have a feeling the best is still to come.

Reservations are strongly recommended, as tastings are generating plenty of interest.

Have you visited Ailm Estate yet, or is it on your Okanagan wine itinerary?

đź“Ś 950 Crawford Road, Kelowna, British Columbia

Save this post for your next trip to Kelowna, and share it with someone you’d love to enjoy a tasting with.

At first glance, you could easily mistake this for Tuscany. But these vineyard views are actually found in the South Oka...
06/24/2026

At first glance, you could easily mistake this for Tuscany. But these vineyard views are actually found in the South Okanagan at Hester Creek Winery—one of the most beautiful wine country stays we’ve experienced in Canada.

Tucked among the vineyards of the South Okanagan, the Villas at Hester Creek Winery might just be one of Canada’s most underrated wine country stays.

Imagine waking up to sunrise over the vines, coffee in hand, soaking in the view from your private patio before the day even begins.

Then it’s off to the tasting room. During our visit, the Viognier and Trebbiano (still one of our all-time favourites) were showing exceptionally well and are perfect companions for warm summer afternoons.

One of the best things about staying here is the location. Oliver is often called the Wine Capital of Canada, which means you’re only minutes away from some of the country’s top wineries. One night simply isn’t enough.

Looking for something different between tastings? The Osoyoos Desert Centre offers a fascinating glimpse into Canada’s unique semi-arid ecosystem—something many visitors don’t expect to find here.

As evening arrives, Terrafina Restaurant delivers one of the most memorable dining settings in Canadian wine country. Dining al fresco beneath the vines with a glass of local wine in hand feels like the perfect way to end the day.

What stood out most, though, was the hospitality. The team made us feel genuinely welcome from the moment we arrived. Many thanks to Melissa and the team for such a wonderful stay.

Would you stay at Hester Creek?

đź“Ś Save this for your next Okanagan wine trip.

Introducing Row 188 Restaurant at O’Rourke Family Estate - a fine dining experience like no other that we have experienc...
06/20/2026

Introducing Row 188 Restaurant at O’Rourke Family Estate - a fine dining experience like no other that we have experienced in the Okanagan!

✨This may very well be my new favourite winery restaurant in the Okanagan.

From the moment we arrived, the staff were warm and welcoming. Doors were opened for us at every single touchpoint - now that is anticipating customer’s needs in advance!

Once we were seated at an amazing table overlooking Okanagan Lake, our host (Asia) brought some complementary bubbles to kick-off our 42nd wedding anniversary celebration. A thoughtful touch that reflected the care and attention to detail.

Wine & food pairings for the night:

> Burrata Salad with the 2022 Georgian Lady Riesling (crisp, refreshing with a hint of petrol)

> Butter Poached Lobster Tail and 2020 Chardonnay ( full-bodied, traditional style Chardonnay)

> Chicken Ballotine and 2021 Clone 548 Chardonnay (this is a “Goldilocks” of a Chardonnay with just a kiss of oak)

> Beef Tenderloin and Non-Vintage Merlot (full bodied red with smooth tannins)

As for the desserts, they were absolutely divine!

O’Rourke Family Estate has already garnered International recognition with the 2020 O’Rourke Family Estate Chardonnay landing in the Top 10 at the 2023 Chardonnay du Monde competition - the only Canadian wine to land in the Top 10!

However, the 2021 Clone 548 Chardonnay captured my heart. Not too oakey and not too linear - just right! A Goldilocks of a Chardonnay.

The food was absolutely top notch! Michelin-started chef, Quinton Bennett, has joined the culinary team as the new culinary director. Alongside executive chef, Julien Lamrani, this dynamic duo will put Row 188 on the map.

If you are already in Lake Country, staying on the property or nearby Sparkling Hills Resort, I would highly recommend this restaurant. A perfect spot to enjoy your meal at leisure - no table turnovers here! And you can enjoy the patio after your meal - no rush, just enjoy the views and ambience.

Thank you Row 188 for helping to make our evening so special. We will be back!

06/16/2026

Out of Control Wildfire - West Kelowna

An out of control wildfire has erupted in West Kelowna. BC Wildfire is on site and Casa Loma Resort has been evacuated out of an abundance of caution.

No destruction to structures and BC Wildfire is actively managing flames as it drifts towards nearby homes. Winds are particularly strong today. Smoke has extended into downtown Kelowna.

West Kelowna is home to numerous wineries. Fingers crossed that the fire is contained shortly!

Looking for the perfect patio wine that’s crowd-friendly and food-friendly? Meet Albariño from Rias Baixas in Galicia, ...
06/07/2026

Looking for the perfect patio wine that’s crowd-friendly and food-friendly? Meet Albariño from Rias Baixas in Galicia, Spain.

Parent Company - Bodegas Gallegas
Regional Producer - Rectoral do Umia
Grape - 100% Albariño

Deep gold in the glass with aromas of apple, pear, orchard fruits, and a hint of wet stones and lemon. On the palate, it’s dry with moderate acidity and beautiful texture highlighting lemon and subtle saline notes.

Most Albariños are meant to be consumed young - but every so often you find one (like Abellio Albariño) that has been aged on its lees. This wine spent 9 months on the lees, enhancing the texture and depth.

While the 2022 drinks well now, I’d keep keep the optimal drinking window to 2-3 years after the vintage to preserve those lovely fruit aromas.

Albariño has actually been one of my favourite discoveries while studying for the Spanish Wine Scholar - such a vibrant, expressive grape.

This the perfect wine for entertaining - ideal for anyone who doesn’t like Chardonnay or Riesling and it makes for a refreshing change from Sauvignon Blanc.

Have you ever tried an aged Albariño? If you have a favourite producer, share it in the comments below.

Burrowing Owl Estate Winery is one of the must-visit stops in Oliver, BC - about 2 hours south of Kelowna. đź“Ť500 Burrowin...
05/28/2026

Burrowing Owl Estate Winery is one of the must-visit stops in Oliver, BC - about 2 hours south of Kelowna.

đź“Ť500 Burrowing Owl Place, Oliver, BC

The property includes beautiful on-site accommodations overlooking the pool and vineyards. These book up fast, so plan ahead. It’s the perfect “home base” for a few days of wine touring. And honestly…..imagine cooling off in that pool after an afternoon in the full Okanagan sun. Bliss!

The winery’s Sonora Room Restaurant is a favourite for both lunch and dinner, offering a great menu and wines by the glass or bottle. Our lunch there was the perfect start to an afternoon of tastings - it’s popular for a reason.

Before you leave, stop by the Wine Shop for tastings and wine-related finds. I’m a big fan of these wine glass guards - perfect for al fresco dining and keeping those”uninvited guests” away from your glass.

Save this post for your next visit to Oliver, BC.

Which part of the property would you enjoy most - the pool, the restaurant or the views?

Meet one of the Okanagan’s newest wineries - Azhadi Vineyards - where global flavours meet Okanagan soul. A fabulous din...
05/23/2026

Meet one of the Okanagan’s newest wineries - Azhadi Vineyards - where global flavours meet Okanagan soul.

A fabulous dinner at the winery’s Journey Restaurant providing stunning views, delicious food with a slight exotic twist and lots of wines to choose from.

Personally, I found their Riesling to be the perfect match to the unique flavours in their appetizers and mains. As for the dessert - an absolute dream paired with the 2020 Griffin, a bordeaux-inspired red blend.

We dined indoors with a full view of the Okanagan Lake. As the sun was setting, it did get quite warm so bring your sunglasses and perhaps even a hat, especially if you are seated on the sunny patio!

So much more to explore at this winery! Will definitely go back for a guided tour and tasting of their entire wine portfolio. Beyond the Journey Restaurant, the winery tour showcases exquisite Persian rugs and an art collection.

In the meantime, if you are living in Kelowna and looking for a new food spot or perhaps visiting Kelowna’s wine country this summer - do check out Azhadi Vineyards. Nothing else like it in Canada!

đź“Ť3778 Hilltown Drive, Kelowna, BC!

I recently came back from a trip to Ontario. While there, I went to a local LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) stor...
04/22/2026

I recently came back from a trip to Ontario. While there, I went to a local LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) store and was appalled that they had virtually no BC wines. The clerk was apologetic but this was certainly not in her control.

For decades, Canadian consumers have been subjected to outdated wine laws. It’s easier to buy International wines than a Canadian wine from another province! This would never happen in Spain, Italy or France.

While the Canadian federal government has announced the removal of interprovincial trade barriers, each provincial and territorial government remains responsible for the sale of wine, beer and spirits in their jurisdiction.

The change is slow….too slow, and by adding your voice to the petition we can help remove interprovincial trade barriers and expedite the process. Provinces are working towards a May 2026 deadline and signing the petition would send a clear message. Canadian consumers want full access to ALL Canadian wines.

If you are a Canadian resident of legal drinking age, please consider signing the petition. Link is in my bio.

Regardless of which party you may endorse, this is the time to support our Canadian wineries and enable them to have full access to a broader market.

Many thanks to for highlighting this petition. Proud to add my voice to Bill C-262 introduced by MP Dan Albas.

Cheers my wine friends!

03/14/2026

Teroldego

A rare Italian grape hailing from the province of Trentino is often regarded as the “Prince of Trentino”.

Elisabetta Foradori’s pioneering experiments in the 80s has cemented Toreldego as one of the most distinctive red wines grown in Northern Italy - and now it is grown in Canada, thanks to Stag’s Hollow Winery located in Okanagan Falls BC.

How did the two compare?

On the nose, the Italian version has very distinctive and enticing aromas - black berry, black currant, pepper, violet, and a unique herbal scent.

The Canadian version had the same black fruit and pepper notes along with vanilla, sage brush and leather.

On the palate, both were full-bodied with incredibly smooth tannins, lively acidity and a persistent finish. Both were also at 12.5% alcohol which made it such an easy red to drink.

Food pairing - both paired nicely with the pasta but I would also bet the Stag’s Hollow would go nicely with grilled meat. It just felt a bit more fuller bodied.

As the seasons change and summer finally does arrive, this would be the perfect red wine for those hot, summer al fresco dining experiences where you want a full-bodied wine but not the 14% alcohol.

Conclusion - I love both! Unique grape representing the climate and terroir from each region. Foradori with its signature aromatics. Stag’s Hollow tilting to a more fuller body. Winemakers at each winery are women - cheers to their bold visions!

Fun Fact - DNA profiling shows that Teroldego is related to Dureza (a parent of Syrah). We all know how well Syrah performs in the south Okanagan!

Teroldego is cellar worthy - so worthwhile to have this on hand in the cellar. Definitely a wine that I would purchase again for my own personal use!

In Kelowna, I was able to get my hands on both the Italian and Canadian bottles from Arc Liquor Guisachan Village. Stag’s Hollow Winery also has wines available on their website.

If you are looking for a distinctive red wine (full bodied with lower alcohol), then this would be a fun one to try!

Cheers my wine friends - have an amazing weekend 🍷

Saturday Night Vibes2017 Thirty Bench Small Lot Cabernet Sauvignon was a perfect match for sipping by the fire. Winemake...
02/22/2026

Saturday Night Vibes

2017 Thirty Bench Small Lot Cabernet Sauvignon was a perfect match for sipping by the fire.

Winemaker, Emma Garner, is well known for her love of Rieslings but I find her red wines to be so intriguing and exceptionally well made!

In the glass, a dark ruby colour with an array of black fruit (black currant, black plum, black cherry) aromas coupled with herbal notes, vanilla, leather and smoke with a hint of spice.

On the palate, an explosion of dark fruit, savoury notes and black pepper. A dry, full-bodied wine with loads of acidity and well-integrated tannins (after some time in the cellar) with a long, persistent finish. Definitely a wine that pairs beautifully with filet mignon off the barbecue.

My favourite aspect of this wine is the alcohol below 14% - which makes this the perfect wine to sip as you watch your favourite Netflix show! With many cabernet sauvignons punching above 14% ABV, this is definitely a lovely alternative if you are looking for a slightly lighter style but still very much a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Thirty Bench Wine Makers is located on the Beamsville Bench in the Niagara area. The winery has won numerous awards - in Canada and abroad - including their 2015 Small Lot Cabernet Franc winning Best in Show by Decanter. No small feat for a Canadian winery!

If you are in the Beamsville Bench area, Thirty Bench Wine Makers is a must visit! You’ll be sure to find a favourite in their award winning portfolio!

Cheers my wine friends!

Address

Kelowna, BC

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Canadian Wine Explorer posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category