Wines of the Okanagan

Similkameen Valley

The Similkameen a narrow Valley which runs from the desert like region of Osoyoos along Highway 3 to the historic town of Princeton, some 100 km (60 mi.) away The valley has mountains to north and south with the Similkameen River on the valley's bottom. The valley receives very little rain or snow. Most of the vineyards are on the north and east slopes.

The Similkameen is historically known for its Gold Mines, Western Heritage and ranching. The city of Keremos is known as the Fruit Stand Capital of Canada. Approxiametaly 40 % 0f all farms here are organic. The valley has 2.000 hours of shineshine and 180 plus frost free days, making excellant growing conditions. The valley has 247 acres of vinyards found between Keremos and Richter Pass.

Crowsnest is the largest winery in the Valley owned by the Heinecke family. The winery produces 6,000 cases a year. St Lazzlo is one of BC's older wineries. Joe Ritlop began planting in 1976. He claims to have icewine avaiable in his shop in 1985..having making it since 1973. Lawrence Herder who owns Herder Winery with his wife Sharon is considered one of BCs best winemakers.

Wineries of the Similkameen Valley

Osoyoos Lake Bench ~ The Golden Mile ~ Black Sage Road ~ Okanagan Falls ~ Skaha Lake ~ Naramata Bench

Summerland and Peachland ~ Mount Boucherie ~ Kelowna and Lake Country ~ Kelowna ~ Northern

Where to Stay while visiting BC's Wineries