A Province of Diverse Vineyards
Across British Columbia, mountain valleys meet shimmering lakes and coastal breezes mingle with alpine air. Within this vast landscape lies one of the world’s most intriguing wine-growing regions, where grapes thrive from the desert heat of Osoyoos to the cool mist of the Gulf Islands.
BC’s wine story is one of diversity and discovery. The province’s Geographic Indications (GIs) now officially recognize several distinct wine regions, each shaped by its geography, climate and community of growers. Together, they make BC Wine Country a journey worth savouring, no matter which direction you travel.
BC’s Wine Regions
Nestled between mountain ranges, desert valleys, temperate coastlines and inland rivers, British Columbia’s wine regions reflect a rare diversity of climates and soils. From the sun-drenched Okanagan to the cooler reaches of Vancouver Island, BC’s eight Geographic Indications (GIs) span five major zones, each with unique growing conditions and grape styles. According to Wine BC, these regions together define BC Wine Country’s identity as a place where both bold reds and delicate whites can flourish. Likewise, BC VQA highlights how terroir, elevation, rainfall and temperature shape each wine region’s signature.
Okanagan Valley – BC’s Flagship Region
The heart of BC wine country, the Okanagan Valley Wine Region stretches over 250 kilometres from Vernon to the US border. It’s the province’s largest and most recognized wine region, home to rolling vineyards framed by lakes and sunlit hillsides. In the south, the warm desert climate near Osoyoos produces bold reds with depth and richness. Farther north, cooler slopes favour crisp whites and aromatic varietals. Visitors can spend days meandering along lakeside wineries, sipping vintages while overlooking the valley’s blue-green waters.
If you’re inspired to explore, check out Watermark’s wine tour recommendations or plan a relaxed winter getaway guided by our blog on Okanagan wineries in the off-season.
Image: BCWA
Similkameen Valley – Wild And Authentic
West of Osoyoos, the Similkameen Valley offers a rugged counterpart to the Okanagan. Towering cliffs, arid slopes, and constant winds shape a landscape that feels wild and untamed. This valley’s growers are deeply committed to organic and sustainable practices, producing wines that mirror the region’s raw energy: earthy, intense and expressive. With its rocky terrain and sun-baked charm, Similkameen feels like BC’s hidden frontier for true wine adventurers.
Image: BCWA
Fraser Valley – Close To The City, Full Of Charm
Just an hour from Vancouver, the Fraser Valley welcomes day-trippers seeking small-scale vineyards surrounded by lush farmland. Here, the mild coastal climate and fertile soils create light, aromatic wines that pair beautifully with local produce and artisanal fare. The atmosphere is relaxed and approachable, perfect for those wanting a taste of wine country without venturing far from city life. Stopping by a local farm stand or café completes the experience.
Image: BCWA
Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands – Coastal Cool
Off the mainland, ocean breezes define the wines of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. The climate here is mild and maritime, with long growing seasons and a slower pace of life. Think coastal vineyards tucked between cedar forests and ocean coves, where small producers craft expressive, handcrafted wines. These island wineries reflect their surroundings: fresh, elegant and distinctly coastal. Visitors come for the tasting rooms and stay for the seaside charm that makes every glass feel like a holiday.
Image: BCWA
Thompson & Shuswap – Emerging Northern Terrains
To the north, near Kamloops and Salmon Arm, a new chapter in BC winemaking is unfolding. The Thompson and Shuswap wine regions are defined by higher elevations, dramatic temperature swings and a pioneering spirit. Cooler nights enhance acidity, while sunny days encourage vibrant fruit flavours. The result is a mix of experimentation and innovation, a glimpse of how far north British Columbia’s winemaking potential can go. Here, visitors discover that “emerging” doesn’t mean unrefined, but rather, refreshingly new.
Image: BCWA
Kootenays & Lillooet – Small But Promising
Tucked into the province’s mountain corridors, the Kootenays and Lillooet areas are among BC’s most exciting frontiers. These regions blend alpine freshness with warm summer days, creating conditions ideal for small-lot vineyards. Lillooet, set along the Fraser River, has earned attention for its pioneering approach, while the Kootenays’ lakes and valleys host boutique producers focused on craftsmanship and character. Though still young in scale, these regions are proof that BC’s wine story keeps evolving, one mountain slope at a time.
Image: BCWA
Why BC Wine Matters
From desert to rainforest, each region expresses its environment through flavour and texture. The province’s wineries are largely small and family-run, rooted in sustainability and respect for the land. Together, they’ve earned international recognition for producing wines that reflect both innovation and authenticity.
Travelling through BC Wine Country means tasting diversity in every glass, an ever-changing landscape of soil, sun and skill.
Plan Your Next Wine Adventure
British Columbia’s wine regions invite travellers to slow down, sip thoughtfully, and savour the view. From the Okanagan’s golden hills to the coastal cool of the islands, every region tells its own story of craftsmanship and community.
If your journey brings you to the South Okanagan, Osoyoos makes a perfect starting point for your wine travels. Surrounded by lakes, vineyards and sunshine, it’s the warmest pocket of Canada and a gateway to many of the province’s finest reds and blends.
When you’re ready to sip, relax and stay, discover Watermark Beach Resort, a lakeside escape at the heart of BC wine country.
