Last but certainly not least, and likely my favourite region in B.C.

It still gets by as a hidden gem – the Similkameen Valley!

I visited the Similkameen Valley about a year ago, and was blown away at the rugged beauty. Jesce Baessler, co-owner of Corcelettes Winery, (and one of my suggested stops) put it best – "It's not going to be long until we're as developed as the Okanagan, so visit now, before the craziness ensues."

There is a certain charm and coziness to the Similkameen Valley – akin to going back in time.

The pace slows down. It's quieter. You're immediately inspired to find a babbling creek, read a book and lazily sip one of the bottles you picked up wine touring that day. 

Stay + Eat

Tree to Me Bed and Breakfast

What it's not – the Fairmont Pacific.

What it is – an adorable B&B nestled among the stunning vistas of Keremeos offering affordable and cute rooms.

I stayed here with my partner on our list visit and fell in love. The breakfast includes locally farmed produce and couldn't be more delicious. The restaurant also houses a market, full of locally made delicacies.

We brought home some rose preserves and jalapeño jelly. 

Drink

Corcelettes Winery

A family of Swiss heritage, which is the inspiration behind the name. Included in their portfolio is Swiss varietal Chasselas, which is a fantastic wine to pair with sushi.

Owners Jesce and Charlie Baessler are committed to moving towards a more sustainable style of farming through the recent purchase of vineyard sheep.

The sheep naturally manage cover crop in the vines, act as natural fertilizers, and prevent the use of herbicides. 

Photo credit: Contributed

Orofino Vineyards

One of the best examples of "low intervention" wines coming out of B.C.

Former teacher and nurse, John and Virginia Weber, purchased their property in 2003 and have been getting to know the land intimately ever since.

Don't miss their orange Muscat, Pinot Noir and be sure to grab a magnum of Rosé for those seemingly never ending summer nights. 

Clos du Soleil Winery

This winery is producing premium wine at a fraction of the cost of their competitors.

Their name is derived from the French term 'Vineyard of the Sun', which nods to their devoted and rigorous vineyard practices.

Don't miss the Celestiale, a Bordeaux inspired blend clocking in at a whopping $22. 

Thanks for joining and reading the wine touring itinerary this month! I hope you enjoy it and find a new favourite winery and eatery.

Happy touring!