Grizzli Winery

In the heart of the picturesque Okanagan Valley lies Grizzli Winery—a modern family-owned estate that has become a true gem of British Columbia. This ambitious project was founded by the Chan family, whose dream of creating an exceptional winery in Canada resulted in a monumental structure spanning over 5,500 square meters, surrounded by endless vineyards.

The complex's architecture is a highlight in its own right: the West Coast style building with Tuscan motifs captivates with its cedar beams and 18-meter-high ceilings. Located in Kelowna, the winery is recognized as one of the region's finest architectural landmarks. With an investment of over $30 million, it stands as one of the largest and most technically advanced wineries on West Kelowna's famous "wine trail."

The estate produces world-class wines, including reds, whites, and the renowned Icewine, which is crafted from grapes harvested at sub-zero temperatures. Grizzli Winery is more than just a production site; it is a full cultural space where enological traditions meet contemporary art and fine dining.

To plan your visit and find details about tastings, you can use the following contact information. Grizzli Winery always welcomes guests and provides a high level of service, reflected in its many positive reviews.

The highlight of any visit is undoubtedly a tasting in one of Canada's largest wine halls, which covers over 1,800 square meters. Under the guidance of experienced sommeliers, you can appreciate the subtle nuances of local wines. For those who want to go behind the scenes, production tours are available, offering detailed insights into traditional fermentation methods and the unique harvest process for Icewine.

Beyond wine-related pleasures, guests can visit the contemporary Canadian art gallery located right in the main building. Exhibitions are updated regularly, and pieces that catch your eye can be purchased for your collection. For gourmets, the 31 CHARKAY restaurant offers a menu designed so that every dish perfectly complements the wine, creating a harmonious culinary ensemble.

For those looking for memorable gifts, there is a signature boutique offering a wide selection of wines as well as handmade souvenirs. The complex is also a popular venue for special events, from romantic weddings to corporate gatherings. A pleasant bonus for those traveling with four-legged friends: the winery maintains a pet-friendly policy.

Reaching this wine complex is easy, as Grizzli Winery is located just a 10-minute drive from the city center. The estate is situated at 2550 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna. The route takes you through the scenic landscapes of British Columbia, making the drive itself a pleasant part of the journey.

Since the winery is located in a rural setting, the most convenient way to travel is by private car or taxi/rideshare services. For those using a GPS, the coordinates are: 49.8636828, -119.5562749. Spacious and convenient parking is available for visitors on the premises.

If you prefer public transportation, please note that bus routes may not stop directly at the winery entrance, so a short taxi ride from the nearest stop might be necessary. Most tourists prefer to order a car directly from the city center to fully enjoy the wine tasting experience without worrying about driving.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the rich past of the Okanagan Valley, which was inhabited by the Syilx people as far back as 6,000 years ago. European settlers began developing these lands in the mid-19th century, but the real horticultural and viticultural boom began in 1893 when Lord Aberdeen, the Governor General of Canada, recognized the region's immense potential for growing fruit and grapes.

The winery's name itself refers to a curious legend about the origin of the city's name. It is said that one of the first settlers, August Gillard, once unexpectedly emerged from his underground dwelling in front of a group of Indigenous people. Startled, they shouted "Kim-ach-touch," meaning Brown Bear, mistaking the man for the animal. Later, this name evolved into "Kelowna," which translates to grizzly.

Grizzli Winery proudly bears this name as a tribute to local heritage. The modern history of the estate began in the 1990s with the dream of the Chan family, who moved to the area from Taiwan. Their goal was to create a world-class wine complex that would combine Canadian traditions with an innovative approach to production.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and all the complex's offerings at a leisurely pace, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This is sufficient for a standard production tour, a professional tasting in the main hall, and browsing the art gallery.

If you plan to round out your visit with an exquisite lunch or dinner at the local 31 CHARKAY restaurant, you should budget an additional 1-2 hours. An evening program including a sunset stroll through the vineyards can take even longer, turning the visit into a complete half-day wine tour.

Grizzli Winery is hospitably open to visitors daily. The standard operating hours for the complex are 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, allowing you to conveniently plan your visit for either the morning or the afternoon. Notably, the winery welcomes guests year-round.

Despite the consistent schedule, it is recommended to check the official website before your trip. Operating hours may occasionally change due to private events, holidays, or seasonal production work.

A visit to the winery can easily be combined with exploring other local points of interest. The surrounding area offers a variety of activities, from peaceful walks through historical sites to active recreation by the water, making for a full and interesting day.