Vines & views: your guide to Kamloops wineries
Privato Vineyard & Winery
Royce Sihlis
Craving a wine getaway with stunning views and sippable local gems? You’re in the right place. The Kamloops Wine Trail is home to some of BC’s most scenic and underrated wineries. From must-try pours to tips for planning the perfect day, this guide has everything you need to sip, savour, and explore like a pro—whether you're a curious taster or full-on wine lover.
Discover the Kamloops Wine Trail
The Kamloops Wine Trail pairs small-batch wines with big, beautiful views. Winding through the Thompson Valley, this scenic route is home to Monte Creek Winery, Privato Vineyard & Winery, and Sagewood Winery—each known for award-winning wines and relaxed charm.
But it’s not just about what’s in the glass. Think patio lunches with vineyard views, laid-back picnics, and wine tastings poured by the winemaker himself. Add in fresh, local flavours from nearby farmers’ markets, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect wine-filled day for foodies and wine lovers.
Monte Creek Winery
Royce Sihlis
Monte Creek Winery
Monte Creek Winery is all about great wines and even better views. Known for its delightful sips and stunning setting, it’s the kind of place where crisp whites and bold reds shine even brighter alongside the scenery.
The Terrace Restaurant's sunny outdoor patio is a must—perfect for a savoury lunch featuring locally-sourced dishes designed to pair beautifully with the wines. Monte Creek is a spot that invites you to slow down, sip a little longer, and soak it all in.
Privato Vineyard & Winery
Royce Sihlis
Privato Vineyard & Winery
Privato Vineyard & Winery is a local, family-owned gem that blends charm, craftsmanship, and elegance. Specializing in small-batch, single-vineyard Burgundy-style wines, they’re best known for their standout Pinot Noir—a beautifully complex wine that captures the character of the region.
Set on the family’s 80-acre farm, Privato offers a warm and welcoming tasting experience. The team is friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to share the stories behind the wines and their winemaking journey.
With its peaceful garden patio and laid-back, family-friendly vibe, Privato makes for a memorable stop as you sip your way through the valley.
Sagewood Winery
Royce Sihlis
Sagewood Winery
With deep roots in the Kamloops wine scene—literally—Sagewood Winery is a small, home-based boutique winery known for its hands-on approach and locally grown wines. Planted back in 2005, their vineyard is the oldest commercial vineyard in the region, and every bottle is made exclusively from estate-grown grapes.
Owner and winemaker Doug Wood is involved in every step, from tending the vines to pouring in the tasting room. With a cozy, relaxed setting and a focus on quality over quantity, this family-run winery delivers a truly local, down-to-earth experience.
Tastings are by appointment, so it’s a good idea to book ahead—especially if you want to catch Doug’s stories straight from the source.
Monte Creek Winery
Mary Putnam
The best wines to taste in Kamloops
The Kamloops Wine Trail is full of character, just like the wines you’ll find along it. From bold reds to refreshing bubbles, each winery brings its own style to the table.
Here’s a look at some standout sips from Monte Creek Winery, Privato Vineyard & Winery, and Sagewood Winery—each offering a true taste of the region.
Monte Creek Winery selections
With such a versatile lineup of wines at Monte Creek Winery, choosing just one isn’t easy. From crisp whites to vibrant bubbles, there’s something here for every palate—and every kind of wine lover.
Monte Creek’s Chardonnay is a go-to for those who enjoy a balanced white with a bit of character. A hint of oak adds a touch of richness without overpowering the fruit, while its crisp acidity keeps each sip clean and refreshing. It’s a well-crafted wine that manages to be both approachable and complex—perfect for pairing with a patio lunch or sipping on its own.
If you’re into bubbles, don’t miss their Living Land Sparkling Rosé. Made with 100% estate-grown grapes and Certified Organic, this light and lively rosé brings delicate red berry notes and a soft, dry finish. It’s elegant, easy-drinking, and fits just about any occasion—from weekend brunches to celebratory toasts.
Privato Vineyard specialties
Privato Vineyard offers an exceptional selection of wines. Among them, their standout Pinot Noir is known for its remarkable depth and complexity.
Rich in character, this Pinot Noir layers dark fruit, subtle oak, and a touch of spice, creating a well-rounded profile. The smooth tannins and balanced finish reflect Privato’s dedication to crafting wines that are both elegant and expressive. It’s a must-try for any wine lover.
But Privato isn’t just about wine. They’re also home to Woodward Cider Co., serving up crisp, handcrafted ciders made with BC apples. Whether you’re sipping cider or swirling a glass of Pinot, Privato is the kind of place where you can kick back, treat your palate, and make the most of a sunny patio afternoon.
Sagewood Winery favourites
Sagewood Winery offers a thoughtful selection of handcrafted, estate-grown wines—all made with care and a personal touch you can taste in every sip.
Their signature Riesling is loved for its bright acidity and just the right touch of sweetness. It’s a refreshing, easy-drinking wine that keeps people coming back for more.
The laid-back, homey setting at Sagewood adds to the charm—giving guests a chance to sip and enjoy the story behind each bottle. Whether you’re a Riesling fan or just discovering it, this small but mighty winery offers a tasting experience that feels personal and memorable.
Not just wine: breweries and distilleries too
Kamloops is home to phenomenal wineries, but the tasting experiences don’t stop there. The city’s local breweries and distilleries round out the tasting experience, and many local tour companies offer combo tours so you don’t miss a drop.
Local breweries
The Kamloops craft beer scene is buzzing with creative brews and cozy tasting rooms. Must-see microbreweries include:
Bright Eye Brewing: Over on the North Shore, Bright Eye keeps things fresh with a rotating tap list full of inventive brews—think fruit-forward sours and seasonal experiments. The colourful tasting room and on-site arcade add a playful twist, making it a go-to for anyone who likes their beer with a bit of fun on the side.
Red Collar Brewing Co.: Located in downtown Kamloops, Red Collar Brewing Co. is known for its European-style brews and seasonal creations. The cozy, industrial-style tasting room shares space with Gin Lane Distillery, giving visitors a two-for-one craft tasting experience.
Noble Pig Brewhouse: As Kamloops’ first microbrewery, the Noble Pig blends small-batch beer with creative comfort food in a cozy, laid-back setting. Their patio is also a local favourite—perfect for sipping a crisp lager or trying something a little more adventurous from their rotating taps.
Iron Road Brewing: Founded by two geologists, Iron Road Brewing is all about exceptional beer made with care and local ingredients. Tucked near Thompson Rivers University, this railroad-themed spot is known for inventive brews, laid-back vibes, and a taco menu that pairs perfectly with whatever’s on tap.
Embers Brewhouse: Formerly known as Alchemy Brewing, Embers brings a fresh identity to the local craft beer scene. This small, creative brewery focuses on easy-drinking, well-balanced beers served in a minimalist taproom with a welcoming vibe. Whether you're popping in for a quick pint or adding it to a full tour, Embers is a must for beer lovers looking to try something new in Kamloops.
Local distilleries and cideries:
Kamloops' distilleries bring the Thompson Valley to life with unique small-batch spirits and inventive cocktails:
Gin Lane Distillery: Situated in Red Collar Brewing Co., this small-batch gin distillery focuses on creating handcrafted spirits with vibrant flavours. For the full experience, order their cocktail flight as a delightful way to sample a few of their signature creations.
Red Bridge Distilling: This local distillery brings a craft approach to spirits, capturing local character in every pour. From smooth vodka to flavourful blends, Red Bridge delivers a true taste of Kamloops—approachable, distinctive, and made with care.
Route 1 Distillery: Route 1 crafts premium spirits like gin and vodka using locally sourced ingredients. With a focus on quality and regional character, their lineup delivers clean, crisp flavours that showcase the best of BC craftsmanship.
For those who prefer a crisp and refreshing alternative, Kamloops' cideries offer delightful options:
Woodward Cider Co.: Located at Privato Vineyard & Winery, Woodward Cider is the perfect stop if you're looking to pair wine tasting with a crisp local cider. Founded by the Woodward brothers, this laid-back cidery serves up refreshing ciders made with BC apples. It’s a great spot to relax and sip something local while soaking up the charm of their sunny patio and garden.
Left Field Cider Co.: Just north of Merritt, this family-run cidery is helmed by sisters Kate and Theresa. Blending traditional English and French cider apples with BC-grown varieties, Left Field crafts balanced, refreshing ciders with a nod to classic styles. It's a great stop if you're up for a scenic detour and a taste of something off the beaten path.
Whether you’re a wine lover, beer enthusiast, or spirit connoisseur, you’re in for a good time. From locally grown wines to small-batch brews and handcrafted spirits, Kamloops’ tasting scene is full of personality.
If you’re ready to explore beyond the tasting room, Kamloops has a variety of guided tours that make sipping your way through wine country—and beyond—simple and stress-free. These tours connect you with the best local gems, all with an expert guide to show you the way. Whether you’re into crisp whites, bold reds, hazy IPAs, or smooth gin, there’s a tour to match your vibe.
Sagewood Winery
Tamra Jaeger & Divine Tours
Guided tours: let the locals lead the way
Kamloops wineries offer scenic sips and standout stories—and local tour operators make it easy to discover them, one glass at a time. These guided experiences take the guesswork out of planning, so you can kick back and enjoy the ride.
TasteFull Excursions
As Kamloops' first premium transportation service for wine tours, TasteFull Excursions offers curated experiences through the Kamloops Wine Trail—with options to explore other regions too. Their "Brew’d in the Loops" tour is a local favourite, featuring stops at craft breweries and distilleries.
DiVine Tours
As a boutique company, DiVine Tours offers intimate tours for groups as small as two, with options to explore both wine and craft beer stops across Kamloops and beyond. Their Kamloops Wine Trail and Craft Beer & Wine Tasting tours offer a great balance for curious palates.
Boogie Bus
Perfect for private events or larger groups, Boogie Bus Shuttle adds a fun vibe to your tasting day. They offer wine and beer tour packages with flexible itineraries for up to 14 people.
Sun Star Shuttle
Offering custom tour options with local guides, Sun Star Shuttle helps you build your ideal tasting day—whether you’re in the mood for wine, craft beer, or both.
Tips for Planning Your Kamloops Wine Tour
- Book Ahead: Tours and tastings can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
- Mix & Match: Consider combining wine with beer or spirits to get the full flavour of the region.
- Hydrate & Snack: Most tours include light bites, but it's smart to eat beforehand and sip water between stops. Wine hangovers? Hard pass.
- Be Curious: Chat with your guides and tasting hosts. They know the stories behind every bottle and pour.
Ready to Sip Your Way Through Kamloops? Whether you go for the bold reds, crisp lagers, or small-batch spirits, there’s a local pour waiting to impress.
Best Times to Visit
Any time’s a good time for wine, but if you want to experience Kamloops' sunshine, aim for the warmer months. Summer is the peak season, with gorgeous weather and tons of events, but spring and fall are also excellent times to beat the crowds and catch the harvest season in full swing.
Keep in mind, some wineries reduce their hours or close in winter, so it’s always a good idea to check their schedules before you go!
Making Reservations
Advance reservations are crucial for a smooth wine tour experience in Kamloops. Many local wineries have specific tasting hours, and a 72-hour notice is recommended to ensure availability. Booking ahead secures your spot and helps avoid potential disappointment.
Planning ahead also allows you to customize your itinerary and ensure you don’t miss any must-see wineries along the way.
Travel and Accommodation
When planning your Kamloops wine adventure, don’t forget about travel and accommodations. Booking your stay in advance is essential, especially during the peak season.
From charming inns to upscale hotels, Kamloops has a variety of places to stay, so you’ll find the perfect place to relax after a day of wine tasting. Booking ahead means a smoother experience, so you can focus on the important stuff—like deciding which bottle to open next!
Discover the Best of Kamloops Wine Country
The Kamloops Wine Trail offers an unforgettable experience, blending stunning views, award-winning wineries, and local charm. With wineries, breweries, and distilleries all within reach, there’s no shortage of incredible stops to make your visit unique.
Craving the taste of Thompson Valley terroir year-round? Join a wine club and have your favourite wines delivered right to your door—so you can sip, savour, and experience new vintages year after year.
Whether you’re sipping your way through local vineyards or exploring the craft drink scene, Kamloops promises an adventure that’ll leave you coming back for more. So, raise your glass and toast to discovering the hidden gems of Kamloops wine country!
Frequently Asked Questions
