As autumn settles over the South Okanagan, the wineries and cideries of Bottleneck Drive are in full harvest mode. It’s an exciting time in Summerland when vineyards and orchards hum with harvest activity, and tasting rooms offer a more relaxed, intimate experience for visitors.
With the summer crowds gone, travellers can slow down and soak in the golden vineyards, crisp air, and the scent of freshly pressed juices. Despite challenges from last year’s extreme winter temperatures, 2025 has brought a welcome rebound. Fruit thrived across the region this summer, promising a high-quality vintage.
“It’s been a great but challenging year for farmers,” says Sébastien Hotte, winemaker and vineyard manager at Lightning Rock Winery. “Wetter-than-average conditions made timing critical, but the long, warm finish brought beautiful ripeness. It’s rewarding to be making wine from our own grapes again, and the Pinots in particular are looking outstanding – vibrant, expressive fruit with wonderful balance. All told, it’s shaping up to be a very good vintage.”
While harvest continues, many tasting rooms remain open with adjusted fall hours, offering guests the chance to experience the flavours of the season. From small-batch spirits, beer, and craft ciders, to award-winning wines, each stop along Bottleneck Drive showcases the creativity and character of Summerland’s beverage community. Once the last grapes are pressed and the barrels are full, Bottleneck Drive members will shift into holiday mode, transforming their properties with twinkling lights and festive cheer for one of the region’s most beloved traditions: Light Up the Vines.
Upcoming Events on Bottleneck Drive:
Saturday, October 25 | Vampires & Vintages – A Haunted Vineyard Party
At Vows & Vines Vineyard
Step into a moonlit vineyard for a Halloween-inspired dance party with a live DJ, indoor bar, and eerie photo moments. Advance tickets ($75 plus tax per person or $80 plus tax with a round-trip shuttle service) include one drink, complimentary appetizers, a photobooth with instant downloads, and a costume contest with prizes. Warm up between songs by the outdoor deck fire pits. Learn more and get your tickets HERE.
Light Up the Vines 2025 – Save the Dates!
Bottleneck Drive’s Most Anticipated Events
- Friday, November 28 – Downtown Summerland Beverage Garden
- Saturday, November 29 + Friday, December 5 + Saturday, December 6
Now in its 15th year, Light Up the Vines returns to illuminate Summerland with festive charm. Visitors can sip, shop, and stroll through beautifully lit wineries and cideries (plus a brewery and distillery) enjoy tastings, live music, and refreshments, and stock up on the finest local wines, beers, spirits, and ciders for the holiday season. More details will be announced soon – for now, save the dates!
For out-of-town visitors, the Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa will once again offer its popular Light Up the Vines package. The package includes a 1-night stay with included shuttle to Controlled Entropy, Solvero Wines, and Detonate Brewing, making it easy to enjoy Light up the Vines without worrying about transportation. More details will be announced soon. As final details are confirmed, additional fall events are expected along Bottleneck Drive. Keep up to date on the latest by visiting the Bottleneck Drive event page.
