Observatory Wines - Summerland, British Columbia

Jordan B.

When you wish upon a star… dreams come true! 🔭 💫

Peering through a telescope allows to see wonders beyond our reach- dancing northern lights, twinkling stars, aligning planets and the captivating moon. Ancient, igniting imagination, inspiring artists, collectively sharing moments with all those present. Timeless and splendid as wine itself.

This was the childhood memory turned vision behind Blair Gillingham’s (Sumac Ridge, New Zealand, Jackson Triggs, Australia, Austria, Fairview Cellars, Ruby Blues, Noble Ridge) passion project Observatory Wines. The memories of a beautiful coastal observatory spending time with loved ones became his reflecting driving force in his grape life pursuit…family first. Ever present when he speaks of his 20+ year journey from Vancouver Island to newly opened dream-come-true in Summerland.

Portfolio of Sparkling, Gruner Veltiner (focus), and Bordeaux style red will tantalize and draw you in equal to the stunning vista. Spacious terrace for live music events, bocce, picnics or simply watching the world go by. Also, wedding pavilion with a romantic and unforgettable backdrop to celebrate life.

“MUST VISIT”! Wonderful visit learning his craft, vineyard plantings, regenerative practices and passion. 🏆🍇🥂☀️

***Note: locally found at one of the best restaurants in the valley Elma & cozy Okanagan Falls gem Rise Shine OK Falls.*** Won’t take long to be on the favourites!

J

Checked out Observatory Wines & Summerland Estate Winery. We met the winemaker, Blair, who wants to bring grüner veltliner into the spotlight.

Tastings are $10.00/person for four pours. Bottles are $27.00 to $35.00. Tasting fee was waived, potentially because we bought a bottle.

- 2024 Bubble telescope - nice, easy drinking bubbly. Similar to a ruby grapefruit
- 2022 Grüner veltliner - lighter bodied, drier
- 2023 Grüner veltliner ($27.00) - completely different than the 2022. More body, mouth feel
- 2020 Observatory red - blend of merlot, cab franc and malbec

Daniel M.

Really great experience at Observatory Wines!
The bubbles and Grüner Veltliner were both excellent. The new owner, Blair, who recently took over, clearly has a great vision for the place—it looks fantastic. He’s incredibly knowledgeable about wine, and it really shows. We had a great time and will definitely be back!

millie C.

We had a wonderful experience! Despite arriving just before closing, we were warmly welcomed and graciously accommodated. A personal wine tasting session was set up just for us, and we enjoyed four exceptional wines, each thoughtfully explained.

We left as two very happy English ladies, each with a bottle in hand, ready to enjoy by the campfire. 😊🍷

Jessie H.

I've been a fan of the wines at Observatory Wines for a few years so I was VERY excited to find out that they now have a brick & mortar location that just opened up. My jaw dropped on how darn beautiful the location is!!! I can't believe I can taste wine while taking one of the best views I've experience at any winery... and I've been to a lot of wineries, lol.
We were greeted and hosted by the winemaker/owner and got to try a couple of vintages of his Gruner (it's an Austrian white that is delicious), a red blend from one of my fav vintages (2020) and what I really loved the most is he just released a bubbles from grapes he sourced from Vancouver Island... and I can't shout it loud enough: THOSE BUBBLES ARE AMAZING!
I'm really excited to see how Observatory Wines grows in the years to come. It's definitely a must visit if you are wine tasting in Summerland and bring your puppers because it's also dog friendly.

Sylvia B.

Wonderful location with a serene view overlooking the lake, mountains and vineyards. Lovely grassy area to enjoy a glass of wine, listen to music and enjoy the view.

CR

Excellent live music lakeside! Good selection of wines to try. Great service. Easy parking.

Sian A.

Stunning spot, love the outdoor terrace overlooking the lake. And beautiful wines, especially the rose bubbles!